The new MC-700 is not going to be any better than the previous generation UMC-200. The architecture/design is basically the same. The only difference being that the MC-700 supports 4K HDR video. They both appear to have a smallish switching power supply for the entire thing. In my past experience, the Emotiva processors use slowish op amps and don't have the resolution and "separation of instruments" that you really want. This does lead to lack of imaging. I auditioned the more expensive XMC-1. While it was okay, it was soft on the audio and I found that it was hard to understand dialogue in movie. I kept trying to turn it up, but the dialogue just did not cut through the other sound (such as music and effects). This may be an engineering decision to compensate for their amps (which can be very bright/fast and harsh)
If you're looking at this price point, I would highly recommend the Outlaw 976 processor. I actually had this in my system for testing before I rebuilt/upgraded it for a friend. The sound of the stock processor is very good, almost like a low priced Marantz AV7702. It doesn't have the deep bass strength of the Marantz because the power supply is smaller, but overall it's excellent for the money. The Marantz is going to be twice as expensive (retail price). Although, you can get a used Marantz AV770x for $1100-1400.
The design/architecture of the Outlaw 976 is SIGNIFICANTLY better than the Emotiva low end processors! It uses separate linear power supply sections for audio, DAC and HDMI board (all running off a toridal transformer with separate windings). Just be aware that the setup menu is somewhat cumbersome. You get what you pay for, but the value of sound quality and impact is very good. The high frequencies are there but they are a little bit rolled off (just like the Marantz). If you want something that is going to excel in imaging and resolution, you will have to pay a LOT more (such as Krell Foundation or even an older Classe SSP-800 if you don't need 4K video).
