A/V Processor and Amp for B&W speakers?

I've tested the XMC-1 in my system.  It's not bad per say, but the sound is rather closed in.  It lacks dynamics/clarity.  I kept trying to turn it up, but I felt like it was hard to understand the dialog and the impact just wasn't there.  It's a well engineered processor and has Dirac room correction (if that's important).  Really the only better thing that the XMC offers is automated Dirac room correction.  The op amps are rather slow and don't have good power supply capacitance around them. It also uses switching power supply.  However, the menu/usability is probably a lot better than Outlaw.

The Outlaw has linear power supplies for all analog and DAC sections.  It has a lot of capacitors mounted right at the op amps and, in my opinion, uses better op amps.  I think the midrange impact and clarity and "separation of instruments" is going to be better on the Outlaw.

That’s really good feedback thanks, the Outlaw it is. I think this is going to be a big step up in quality vs my old Pioneer SC-27, can’t wait.

Just a question of buy now or wait a month to see if they’re any discounts at thanksgiving.

Hello kdochert,

     If you buy a product and it goes on sale within about 30 days, most retailers will give you a refund for the price difference.  I suggest you call them and ask them if this is their policy.  If it is, just ask them to state this stipulation on your sales receipt.  
    
Tim

Hi Tim,

Thats a great shopping tip, I’ve received a refund once from B&H by asking if they would honor the sales price for something I had recently bought, but I’ve never proactively requested this info.

Monoprice have a very well defined policy, they do honor post purchase sales prices from their own store, but it’s only within 7 days of purchase and excludes certain events like black Friday and cyber Monday.

Call me tight but I’m just gonna hold off till thanksgiving in the off chance something comes up on sale.

kevin

Ok, I’m back!

I was set on getting an Outlaw 976 and Monolith 5X, however I just had an unpleasant experience dealing with Outlaw and so back looking at other processor options including second hand options. Budget $1,000 to $1,500, must have’s are 4K HDR capabilities, balanced XLR output. Sound wise as I mainly use the system for TV and movies I’m looking for both clarity and a dynamic sound.

Comments on Emotiva XMC-1 above suggest it’s sound is a step down from an Outlaw, plus I’ve read a lot of mixed reviews regarding Emotiva?

Second hand, what about a Marantz AV 7705 or the older 7704?

Looking at Anthem AVM 60 second hand also, but I think I'll struggle to get on of those within budget.

Regarding the amp, still happy with the Monolith choice, hopping to get a refurbished item (5X or 7X), but also looking for a second hand Rotel RMB1585, but they seem quite scarce.