Have 6 channel amp what's next ?


I own a Cinepro 6Ch amp, but I don't know if I now need a HT Processor, Pre-Pro, Processor etc... I'm relatively new to all this HT stuff but the Cinepro runs pretty cool and my experience with Integrated Receivers is they run hot as hell and that won't work in my cabinetry. I'm setting up a family Entertainment Center, so I would like whatever i buy to be multi-zone capable. I will be hooking up DirecTv, Tivo, Blue Ray player, PS3, DVD, etc...to a new 65" Panasonic Plasma. I only need a 5:1 system as everything in the family room is in-wall/ceiling with the exception of the sub. I think i'll need a unit that has HDMI 1.3 for the best picture quality but i'm not sure. I will most likely buy used form Audiogon and my budget is $1K-2500+-

Thank's in advance for your advice.
jeraza
If you can bi-wire/bi-amp your center channel, that would be awesome. Otherwise, the 6th channel will not be used. Make sure that you don't have a signal into it if it's not hooked up to a speaker.
You will have to get a pre/pro with or without a tuner. If you are new at this, go with a more simple unit if possible. Get a remote that doesn't take a computer tech. I really like sunfire/sherbourne/anthem.
For zone 2: Most pre/pro's will run a second zone. However, using the same unit for this will make things more complicated. Plus, you will need remote IR emitters and such. If you are a novice, either use a completely separate second zone or pay a shop to set it up. I'd suggest selling your second amp and buying a multizone receiver like Denon 385.
You could use extra channel for 6.1 for more spacious ambient surround or I have used an extra channel for bass shakers installed in seating.
Okay, I think in some ways this is getting a bit more complicated than it needs to be.

#1 - There has been mention of using Component instead of HDMI as a cost-saving measure. IMHO, this is a non-issue. All of the newest pre-pros have both Component and HDMI connections. The big difference between the two is that HDMI will carry both audio and video signals. It is a one-cable hook-up. Using Component requires a separate feed for audio and video.

Picture-wise, it's a wash, Component looks just as good as HDMI. Sound-wise, HDMI (especially V. 1.3) is the better way to go since it supports all the latest codecs and can handle hi-res (lossless) multi-channel music effortlessly. S/PDIF and TosLink cannot, they simply do not have the bandwidth needed.

#2 - Others have mentioned that if you go with an older spec. HDMI the only thing you'll lose is some of the newest sound codecs. My contention is that while they may not be widespread now, they most likely will be in the near future. Why would you start off by painting yourself into a corner? My assumption is that you are buying this to enjoy for many years. If that is the case, future-proof your setup by making sure it supports ALL of the newest codecs now. Otherwise, you will not be able to enjoy the benefits of Dolby Digital True HD, DTS HD, DTS Master Audio, etc.

#3 - The Emotiva *has* been delayed - but it was delayed from this past February (2008) to its imminent release in the next 3-4 weeks. And the unit costs only $699. If you cannot afford this, you honestly have no business even thinking about buying any multi-channel pre-processor. Trust me on this point, the Emotiva has ALL the capability you need and it is at a price that is going to seriously embarrass the competition. I honestly think it has a good shot at being the Home Theater Product of the Year for 2009. Do yourself a favor and contact Emotiva and get on the pre-order list, I did so almost 10 months ago and I'm just about giddy with excitement over its impending release [smile]...

BTW, I am NOT an Emotiva shill. I am simply a satisfied customer who has seen how genuinely good their products are and how well they treat customers after the sale. This company is a rare bird indeed...

Best Wishes,

-RW-