Why no love for Integra's?

Much of the Integra stuff is only marginally better than the standard Onkyo gear, which sounds okay.

Now Integra does have some good pieces, the BAT designed amp and the higher end pre/pro with Apogee DACs.

Now if this is the unit I am thinking of it sells for $1600.00 and offers a built in video processor as well.

It seems to me that this is way too much technology for too low a price. Time and auditioning well tell.

I agree with Aoracle, I owned Onkyo for 10 years going from 2 channel, Dolby Surround, AC3 and finally a 7.1 unit before I turned to higher end seperates, the Integra line is only slightly better wich means it is acceptable but nothing to write home about....or in forums lol.

I believe there is a difference between Integra and Integra Research. Integra Research is the top brand with units such as described by Audioaracle. I used the Integra Research RDC-7 preamp/processor for a couple of years in my 5.1 surround sound system with very good results. The only reason I'm not still using it is due to going back to 2 channel. It is very well made, has tons of options, but most importantly sounds very good. Their support is also pretty good, as I spoke with a couple of techs based out of their NJ office.

Thanks everyone. I am aware of the Integra Research line. However, I've also read that Integra was the Onkyo upper line, much like Sony ES and Pioneer Elite.

Audiooracle hit the nail on the head and this was exactly what I was thinking. A lot of features on this pre/processer makes it look very attractive on paper. It also has a direct/by-pass mode, but I'm not sure just how direct that would be or what type of volume control is used.

I like the Arcam, but am curious about the room EQ that some of the newer units use and I would like to find something with a little more slam to it as well. The Arcam is sweet, but it leans toward a more articulate and not so robust sound; if that makes any sense.

Maybe I should just hold out until a nice used Krell Showcase pops up?