That Theta looks like a beast...interesting that it's designed to be upgraded indefinitely, and configurable according to the level of quality I want in the DACs'.
I've heard good about Meridian as well. Analog 2 channel isn't critical, all my sources are digital. (which to many people may mean that 'good 2 channel' is defacto impossible, I realize, but humor me ;) )
I'd noticed the Emotiva before, and they have a good bang-for-buck rep. I'm not in a rush, just looking ahead, and garnering info/opinions on those who've been there/ done that, as opposed to reviewers who love everything. Did I read they are already overdue to release this piece?
I had wondered if a separate, higher quality pre amp might be necessary. From what I've read, many think it is. Curious about how an integrated would work - I could use that as the main 2 channel amp whether I was using the pre (in 2 channel), or the outboard processor (in HT)?
Thanks all! Keep the info coming...I far prefer real-world feedback to magazine hype. A 'goner recommended my 2 channel amp in a thread like this, a name I'd never heard of (Odyssey), and I found one from a different 'goner for sale, a Stratos, and it's been wonderful, a real revelation, so I'm looking for more real users to help me past the hype and (to me) confusing specs and feature lists.