Acurus Act4 Preamp/Processor

This is an initial review of the product straight from the box and in factory setting configuration. It is my initial impression.
Once I opened the box, removed the unit, unpacked and set it in its place I was not moved nor impressed and questioned my decision. Not very aesthetic and the manual was, let's say cheap. Nevertheless I did the connections, read the manual, powered it on and kicked back with the very minimalistic remote. My first test was with Pandora via app on the tv. Pandora is far from great SQ as everyone knows but it's easy to test genres. I will say that I was wowed with the superb sound that was spewing from my speakers. A very impressive initial experience. Next I placed a SACD into the transport and was completely caught of guard with what I was experiencing. It literally blew me away, the crap eating grin on my face I think is embedded permanently. Holy cow it was great. Next was a standard 5.1 Concert DVD the sound was above superb and the video clear and sharp. I am truly ecstatic about the superb sound and video. My initial thoughts are forgotten. I'm even accepting of the minimalistic remote, the cheap owners manual, the aesthetics of the unit or even of the bothersome touch screen brightness. Perusing the manual it's obvious I have a lot to learn. 
For straight out the box this is the best sound and video quality I have ever had the pleasure to experience.  I can only imagine what it will be once it is set up properly for my environment.  It only gets better from here.
Associated equipment is intentionally not listed as is no mention of types of genres played. In this case it's all about my initial impression of the Acurus Act 4. So far beyond superb.
I've been in this hobby for a long long time and have had some really great systems in my days but I had never been as wowed before. Truly impressive. Damn expensive for a 23lb box though.