I replaced my AVR with a Flex HT, but don't recommend it.

[vicenzo_del_paris]

Great thread here. Despite the title, I am thinking of replacing my AVR with a MiniDSP Flex HT (As a preamp). Wanted to make sure I'm not missing anything. I am doing it because, based on reviews and numbers, this seems like a top-level DAC that fits my needs at a fraction of the cost of what high-end multichannel preamps cost.


- I have a 5.2 system; in the future, I might go 2.x but never more than 7 channels.

- All sources I use can output PCM (apple TV/ Blu-ray Player)

- I don't care about extra remotes. I have a Logitech remote that I should be able to program for the Flex HT / Any HDMI switch I add.

- I have never really used any of the smart features of an AVR before. I don't really upmix anything. I listen to 2.0 content in 2.2 stereo and multichannel content in 5.2.

- I am familiar with MiniDSP products, REW, and have a UMIK. I’ve used the 2x4HD for many years.

- I have an Arcana HDFury to extract audio from HDMI sources.


Based on everything I have read, it makes sense that this niche product paired with an amplifier should work well for me, but I wanted to make sure I haven't overlooked anything. Thanks for your help!

I was in the exact same case / configuration and Flex HT has perfectly done the job !

 

[Genstruktur]

Great thread here. Despite the title, I am thinking of replacing my AVR with a MiniDSP Flex HT (As a preamp). Wanted to make sure I'm not missing anything. I am doing it because, based on reviews and numbers, this seems like a top-level DAC that fits my needs at a fraction of the cost of what high-end multichannel preamps cost.


- I have a 5.2 system; in the future, I might go 2.x but never more than 7 channels.

- All sources I use can output PCM (apple TV/ Blu-ray Player)

- I don't care about extra remotes. I have a Logitech remote that I should be able to program for the Flex HT / Any HDMI switch I add.

- I have never really used any of the smart features of an AVR before. I don't really upmix anything. I listen to 2.0 content in 2.2 stereo and multichannel content in 5.2.

- I am familiar with MiniDSP products, REW, and have a UMIK. I’ve used the 2x4HD for many years.

- I have an Arcana HDFury to extract audio from HDMI sources.


Based on everything I have read, it makes sense that this niche product paired with an amplifier should work well for me, but I wanted to make sure I haven't overlooked anything. Thanks for your help!

Im really happy with my Flex and think the audio quality is awesome. The thought has crossed my mind to replace my AVR. But does this solution actually work as flawless as an AVR? Does it work evertime you sit down with popcorn and a beer in your hand and just want to watch a movie this instance? No hdmi handshake issues etc? Restarting units for it to work and youre popcorn is getting cold and beer is getting warm?

Im just curious to know beacuse im a bit reluctant to think this solution has no issues.

I know you havent tried it yet but maybe someone who have this solution can shed a light?

 

[danstahl]

Im really happy with my Flex and think the audio quality is awesome. The thought has crossed my mind to replace my AVR. But does this solution actually work as flawless as an AVR? Does it work evertime you sit down with popcorn and a beer in your hand and just want to watch a movie this instance? No hdmi handshake issues etc? Restarting units for it to work and youre popcorn is getting cold and beer is getting warm?

Im just curious to know beacuse im a bit reluctant to think this solution has no issues.

I know you havent tried it yet but maybe someone who have this solution can shed a light?

No issues since I removed cec. Cec did cause issues when switching stereo / surround.

 

[Genstruktur]

No issues since I removed cec. Cec did cause issues when switching stereo / surround.

Ok great!

I do not think it would be a cheaper solution for me though since it would have to buy amplifiers for surround and Atmos + Arcana hd Fury. But its a thrilling tought .