When it comes time to run dual subs, what should I be looking for in an AVR? What makes the Integra 3.4 a bad option for that? I was under the impression any AVR that had dual sub jacks would be sufficient.
The DRX 3.4's 2 sub outs are not discrete!
The advantage of independent subwoofer outputs is that you can independently time align the subwoofers using DLBC or by hand. For instance, if you have one sub in the front of your listening position and another in the back, they likely have different latencies relative to the listening position. With a single output (or using a Y-adaptor), you can't correct for this, but with independent outputs, you can. Whether this is important for you depends on whether or not you intend to run multiple subwoofers and how deep you plan to go into calibrating for the room.
Thanks for the info, makes sense. I’m still very much learning the intricacies of this hobby. I see you mentioned one output/ a y splitter. My receivers have, will always have 2 sub outputs. If there are two does that then mean the difference of mono sub jacks (essentially the same as using a y splitter to run 2 off of 1 sub out) vs discrete where they’re independent?
Correct, so if the subwoofer outputs are internally split, it's the same as running an external splitter - you still only have one channel of processing for the subwoofer. This is the case on the DRX-3.4 and RZ50, for instance. The DRX-8.4 has two independent channels (4 outputs total, but only two are independent) as does the RZ70 and RZ30.
Thanks. Learned something new!
The RZ50 and DRX-3.4 are both closing in on 4 years old. I would not count on further firmware updates beyond minor bug fixes. Of course, if they do everything you need already, then there's no need for concern. If you are interested in a similar product, but newer, look to the RZ30, introduced late last year.
Yep. The Onkyo and Integra lines both saw new product launches last year with the RZ30, 8470, and DTM-7.4. Pioneer is a little more questionable due to some rumors swirling as to whether or not that brand will continue, but the existing Pioneer models have continued to receive firmware updates along with the other lines, including as recently as November, as you point out.
