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INTEGRA DHC-80.3 Surround Processor

I'm a 2-channel music guy, who is about to take the plunge into his first surround rig.

Based on the feature set and functionality that I desire, my local dealer has steered me toward Integra's 80.3 processor for the hub of this sytem.

I have no experience with surround processors or Integra and am looking for some general feedback.

Are Integra's processors reliable? Good Performers? Easy to use? Priced fairly?

I realize that the 80.3 is brand new, replacing the 80.2.

I'd love to hear from current or past owners of the 80.2, or any of Integra's processors/receivers.

In this $2500+/- price point, is the Integra processor a good investment?

If you've had problems or found other brands to be a ***significantly*** higher value, please chime in.

If owning an Integra processor or surround receiver has been a good experience, I'd love to hear that too.

Thank you.
barrelchief
barrelchief OP
294 posts
 
I am aware of that, Kal. It's the functionality & ease of use, specific to my application, which has the dealer endorsing the Integra processor.

Supposedly, they they also tried to get the Marantz (dealer for both brands) to do the same and it would not.
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,685 posts
 
I am not sure how your specific application demands something different from standard HDMI passthrough which is usually automatic requiring no buttons or menus. I do not have an 80.3 but every other recent prepro, so far, does this without any programming at all.

Still, if this function is critical for you and you are happy that the 80.3 meets your needs, I see no reason to deter you.

Kall
rayray8
51 posts
 
why wouldnt you just run one hdmi from your cable/satellite box to the tv for normal viewing and then run another hdmi from your blu ray player to the processor to the tv. basically 2 seperate systems??
madhf
170 posts
 
check out the Emotiva UMC-1. Does all the basics plus a clean pass thru for your 2 channel. For $500 it's a great deal. IMO has better audio sound than the integra 9.8.
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,685 posts
 
For $500, it is the only "new" deal but that is all I can think of that makes it desirable.
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