Emotiva XMC-1 owners....


I am considering trying the new Emotiva XMC-1 home theatre processor and wanted anyone who has one to please key in your experience with this awaiting piece. I am on a large upgrade waiting list but would like some feedback for those who have it at home. Any comparisons would be nice as I previously sold my UMC-200 processor and now use a tube integrated with an Oppo 103 for processing which is just ok. The Oppo has bad volume control, no sub control & no XLR connectivity. Thx in advance....
128x128bacardi
Bacardi,

Congrats. It looks like an interesting concept, a bit of all in box like an integrated amp. What I don't get is this from their web-site.
We remove the DAC, Preamp, and separate amplifier from the signal path. This not only removes hundreds or thousands of parts that cause sonic degradation, but simplifies your system to just two components. The result is substantially lower distortion.
So elimination of components, maybe thousands, should make for a pretty inexpensive component.
Also, the Kratos amp is claiming 100W/ch at 8 ohm. I'd confirm what the 4 ohm rating is because that will really show what type of class-d typology they are using. My guess is that they are using the TDA7498 chip which distorts pretty badly (0.1%) at frequencies above 2K.

Lastly, Core Audio Tech states that in the future the will be able to do DSD on USB input. Thats good, but it will need to be converted to PWM to be amplified. All class D's have this issue so it is not a true DSD signal you are listening to.

I like class D amplifiers and the concept here, but you really need to research and listen to the product before buying.
Scvan, thx for your input. If your running efficient speakers as I am running Casta model D8's and maybe go to the Model C's in gloss brown grain(beautifful) the ratings will not matter. The DSD issue is something to look at for sure. I will be trying the 2 channel and server in a weeks time. I have heard it is truly a revelation in sound. These are custom pieces and have high grade parts inside. My system now is an Oppo 103(awful but great video) and Darred tube integrated. With two volume controls and imbalance it is just bad. Phase problems are occuring and a narrow sweet spot. This new set-up will solve some or all issues.
It is a class D amp. It just isn't converting the analog to digital before the switching controller. It then converts the PWM signal to analog.
They are just calling it something else, but I assure you it is the same technology as a class-D amp.

I think many class-d integrated amps skip the D to A to PWM conversion and amplify the digital signal directly. This is the way of the future.
Scvan recommending from Pioneer or Onkyo shows me where you are at audio wise and you therefore loose any credibility