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I know, there is no 'best', but...

..is there any consensus on AV processors in terms of the best?
I have an AVR now, and I know the future holds a processor and seperate amplification for improved sound quality.
On a related note, what is the consensus on room correction programs? Is there a 'best' for that, or a 'diy' procedure that is preferable? The YPAO in my Yamaha consistently tells me incorrectly I have speakers wired out of phase, so if it gets that wrong, how can I know what else it's wrong on?

Good 2 channel is also important, so does that mean a good audio pre-amp is necessary (HT passthrough?), or is there a processor with good 2-channel performance. I know that's relative, so let me clarify a little by saying I'll have a total speaker investment under $20K, built over time, so let's not stray too far into the realm of diminishing returns.
english210
raks
468 posts
 
Theta Casablanca is your best bet for both HT and 2 Channel stereo.
hevac1
812 posts
 
I would go Meridian, I have had mine for years. The only issue I have is they now require you to bring it to a dealer of software updates, I used to be able to upgrade it myself. If you want analog 2 channel you will have to purchase an analog preamp that has a pass through. Meridian converts all analog input to digital then back to analog if the unit is an analog out to your amps.
rlwainwright
1,904 posts
 
If you can hold on for about 6 months, the Emotiva XMC-1 promises to be a giant-killer preprocessor for only $1499...

http://shop.emotiva.com/collections/processors/products/xmc1

-RW-
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
If good 2 channel is important, then I would go with something that has HT bypass, preamp or integrated amp. This will have the potential for better 2 channel, and give you more flexibility in the future.
english210 OP
175 posts
 
That Theta looks like a beast...interesting that it's designed to be upgraded indefinitely, and configurable according to the level of quality I want in the DACs'.

I've heard good about Meridian as well. Analog 2 channel isn't critical, all my sources are digital. (which to many people may mean that 'good 2 channel' is defacto impossible, I realize, but humor me ;) )

I'd noticed the Emotiva before, and they have a good bang-for-buck rep. I'm not in a rush, just looking ahead, and garnering info/opinions on those who've been there/ done that, as opposed to reviewers who love everything. Did I read they are already overdue to release this piece?

I had wondered if a separate, higher quality pre amp might be necessary. From what I've read, many think it is. Curious about how an integrated would work - I could use that as the main 2 channel amp whether I was using the pre (in 2 channel), or the outboard processor (in HT)?

Thanks all! Keep the info coming...I far prefer real-world feedback to magazine hype. A 'goner recommended my 2 channel amp in a thread like this, a name I'd never heard of (Odyssey), and I found one from a different 'goner for sale, a Stratos, and it's been wonderful, a real revelation, so I'm looking for more real users to help me past the hype and (to me) confusing specs and feature lists.
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