SOTA processors also bang for the buck

Very funny. There is a lot of evidence that, aside from the front door and firmware, Onkyo and Integra are physically identical. Of course, the Integra warranty is 3 years and the Onkyo's is only 2 years.

Kal

Kal,

That is essentially the advice I got from a guy who spends his days wandering around inside both products.

Marty

PS - For my money, the Onkyo has a purtier face, too.

OTOH, refurbed 80.2 pre-pros are now available locally for $1300. It just might be worth learning to love that mug at that price.

Marty

Martykl: I would love to find out what differences there are between an 80.2 and a 5508 (or between an 80.3 and a 5509) besides what is obvious and acknowledged.

Kal

Kal,

I'll ask for a more specific answer next time I speak to him, but the tech who advised me hinted at "substantially identical" as I recall. He never flat out said it, though.

I do remember that he mentioned a few small differences, and he kind of chucked at the notion that they would make a difference in performance. I'll follow up here after my next conversation with him (if I get anything worth posting.)

However, it is possible that Onkyo discourages specific disclosure from the dual authorized service shops - for obvious reasons. I'm not sure where you're located, but my guess is that there is such a repair company local to you. Since you are such a charming fellow, you might be able to get the answer for yourself with a carefully worded inquiry.

Marty