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Are lossless Codec's worth upgrading my processor

I have a lexicon DC-2 processor which has a number of the older codecs and lexicon's 7:1 surround capability....works great with HDTV. However, now I'm going to get a bluray player and of course today's technology has lossless codec's and HDMI 1.3.

I can connect a bluray player thru digital to my Lexicon DC-2 and still decode the non lossless codecs...well at least some of them.

The question is....how big is the difference in sound between the new lossless codecs and DTS, Dolby, etc. Is it night and day....or just a little better...or just marketing hype?

(Lexicon DC-2, NHT Power 5, NHT/James 5:1 speakers)
ghstudio
ghstudio OP
141 posts
 
The DC-2 was the flagship of Lexicon, not a low model...but electronics have come a long way. It does not have 7 channel analog input, but it can be easily modified for $185.

Alternatively, I can buy a used Integra 9.8 for $800 which has the latest lossless codecs and probably will sound better than the DC-2, just because it uses much more recent chips.
rlwainwright
1,904 posts
 
Well, I've heard the new codecs and I stand by my assessment. They are better. But it is not a jaw-dropping difference, that's just the usual audiophile overstatement engine at work...

-RW-
johnjbarlow's avatar
johnjbarlow
175 posts
 
Sorry Rlwainwright. I respectfully disagree with you. The new lossless codecs are head and shoulders above all the legacy codecs previously used to decode DVD.

I am certainly not overstating anything. I wouldn't have wasted my time with Blu Ray if the new True HD and DTS HD Master Audio codecs hadn't just blown DTS and DD out of the water.

Nothing personal at all, but I think you are dead wrong.
jamnperry
123 posts
 
I had the same questions about the new codecs. I bought the Panny BD55 intending to return it. The codecs were sent via 5.1 inputs on my processor. IMO the difference was on the level of cd vs sacd. Seemed much more expansive resolving, and natural. For me, it's the difference that's convinced me that it's worth the effort. I'm waiting for the Oppo now.
vicdamone
850 posts
 
+1! It wasn't until I brought it home and added the two sides, I was floored by the difference. Then I ran the room correction, wow. After I got over the the improvement in surround effects I noticed the dialogue location in the front channels was much better even with some older titles.

This upgrade doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg to get the bulk of the improvement. HDMI cable shouldn't cost more than $20, Blue Jean or Monoprice.
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