Processor Thoughts

[AudioStudies]

I was initially surprised to see Arcam and Emotiva do so poorly in Amir's tests. Yes, discouraging in general how poor the processor market has manifested itself. If I were rich, I would likely go with Storm Audio. I would like to see reviews of other makes such as AudioControl, Theta Casablanca, and Rotel. I recently picked up Rotel's top of the line processor as I found a deal for a demo unit. They are normally $3700. So far, I only have it hooked up in stereo, but I like it, both in terms of sound and functionality. I wish the Rotel had XLR ins/outs. Other than that, it has all the features that I need, including 4K switching. A used AudioControl came on the market and I was tempted but I don't know enough about them. Feature wise, it would have had everything my Rotel has and also XLR. I welcome any and all processor opinions, particularly with respect to AudioControl, Theta, and Rotel, or others that should be under consideration. I have ruled out Arcam, Emotiva, and JBL because of the reveiws here in ASR. For now, I will likely stick with this Rotel, as Theta or AudioControl are pricey, especially if new. A new Casablanca V costs more than Storm Audio, but perhaps a Casablanca lower in the food chain could do 4k switching and could be picked up used.

 

[JRiggs]

The AudioControl units are Arcam based just like the JBL SDP's. However, I will vouch for the JBL. The SDP-55 tested here, was an early production run with hardware and software issues. The issues are now, mostly, resolved. I have had one running for a year with out issues, at least none that are audible, and the software has been stable.

 

[higuys]

Came here looking for processor suggestions. I'm looking to buy a Buckeye 3 channel amp and want a high quality processor that has HDMI 2.1, a great DAC, and balanced XLR outs for at least 5.1. Anthem AVM 70 seemed to check off all the boxes then I read the review lol.

 

[Keith_W]

This review of the Anthem AVM 70? There is nothing wrong with it. Don't read too closely into those reviews, a SINAD of 100dB is just as inaudible as a SINAD of 118dB, it's a meaningless competition of which number is sexier. With DAC reviews, there is minimal correlation between what the measurements look like and how the DAC will sound, unless the measurements are absolutely terrible. When it comes to AV processors, things like price, features, support, upgradability, repairability, and warranty are far more important. The difference in sound between DAC's will be absolutely miniscule and it's not worth worrying about.

Also, don't forget that ASR is an audio website. Those reviews and measurements are incomplete. Video performance has not been tested, and there is absolutely no discussion on features, ease of use, etc. For better or for worse, Amir is only interested in the performance of the things that he can actually test, and that is audio. A manufacturer of an AV processor might not be interested in devoting so much engineering resources into audio to push an inaudible number into an even more inaudible number, to the point that it takes away engineering from more important features of the unit. If that Anthem is within your budget and has the features that you need, go for it.

 

[higuys]

This review of the Anthem AVM 70? There is nothing wrong with it. Don't read too closely into those reviews, a SINAD of 100dB is just as inaudible as a SINAD of 118dB, it's a meaningless competition of which number is sexier. With DAC reviews, there is minimal correlation between what the measurements look like and how the DAC will sound, unless the measurements are absolutely terrible. When it comes to AV processors, things like price, features, support, upgradability, repairability, and warranty are far more important. The difference in sound between DAC's will be absolutely miniscule and it's not worth worrying about.

Also, don't forget that ASR is an audio website. Those reviews and measurements are incomplete. Video performance has not been tested, and there is absolutely no discussion on features, ease of use, etc. For better or for worse, Amir is only interested in the performance of the things that he can actually test, and that is audio. A manufacturer of an AV processor might not be interested in devoting so much engineering resources into audio to push an inaudible number into an even more inaudible number, to the point that it takes away engineering from more important features of the unit. If that Anthem is within your budget and has the features that you need, go for it.

Sorry I think I got it confused with a Marantz review. I’m reading so many reviews right now. I was checking out the McIntosh MX1000 and Marantz 8805 since they’re very similar. The Anthem AVM 70 seems to be recommended, maybe this is going to be the one for me!

 

[peng]

Came here looking for processor suggestions. I'm looking to buy a Buckeye 3 channel amp and want a high quality processor that has HDMI 2.1, a great DAC, and balanced XLR outs for at least 5.1. Anthem AVM 70 seemed to check off all the boxes then I read the review lol.

It was a good review, the dut was likely one with the AK4490 dac chip. They have since replaced it with the ES9038Q2M that has slightly better specs, so it one get measured on ASR, the results would likely be even better.

 

[Dj7675]

I was initially surprised to see Arcam and Emotiva do so poorly in Amir's tests. Yes, discouraging in general how poor the processor market has manifested itself. If I were rich, I would likely go with Storm Audio. I would like to see reviews of other makes such as AudioControl, Theta Casablanca, and Rotel. I recently picked up Rotel's top of the line processor as I found a deal for a demo unit. They are normally $3700. So far, I only have it hooked up in stereo, but I like it, both in terms of sound and functionality. I wish the Rotel had XLR ins/outs. Other than that, it has all the features that I need, including 4K switching. A used AudioControl came on the market and I was tempted but I don't know enough about them. Feature wise, it would have had everything my Rotel has and also XLR. I welcome any and all processor opinions, particularly with respect to AudioControl, Theta, and Rotel, or others that should be under consideration. I have ruled out Arcam, Emotiva, and JBL because of the reveiws here in ASR. For now, I will likely stick with this Rotel, as Theta or AudioControl are pricey, especially if new. A new Casablanca V costs more than Storm Audio, but perhaps a Casablanca lower in the food chain could do 4k switching and could be picked up used.

I can vouch for the Stormaudio. It is well made, software is very good and stable, and has a very good feature set, expandable, good support etc. As of right now, the only other 2 that would be on my shortlist would be the Marantz AV10 (or Denon AH1) or a Trinnov. Once the Marantz/Denon units get DLBC (and possibly ART) they will be a very good value and also offer the software stability which many are lacking. Many that have the JBL seem happy with their units now. These processors are so complex and it seems so many of the brands release them with so many issues.

 

[theBruce]

I am starting to believe this will be a lost year with new processors.

I do not need 15-17 channels, need at the most 5 Channels and up to 4 ( only have 2 now) Atmos, 1-2 subs ( 1 is fine for me).

I keep hoping someone will come out with something like Outlaw‘s 976, my only real needs, except for above, is XLR and HDMI 2.1.

But nothing is announced, not even rumors, my work around now is Roku and 4K BR Player on the Living Room TV, my PS5 and XBOX X on a different TV in a separate room.

In the Living Room, Yamaha 5200 with VTV Amps, Game Area, just a Denon 3800 that I was able to get on sale for $799 because of the HDMI 2.1 inputs, but compared to the Yamaha/VTV, it really sucks.

But I prefer everything on one TV, hence the need of HDMI 2.1, I am a widower, so no wife, unfortunately, to get mad at me while playing games on the main TV.

Do not want the Anthem, need something more plug and play, the new Emotivas might be a disaster at first with software, nothing from Yamaha, rumored ones from Onkyo seem to be vaporware.

 

[AudioStudies]

I am starting to believe this will be a lost year with new processors.

As is just about every year. It is a mess. The world needs more surround channels about as much as Viagra commercials and feminine hygiene commercials. I may end up being a 2-channel person the rest of my life. I bought a pretty nice Rotel processor (no XLR) but never get around to hooking up the extra channels. But I sure as hell don't need any more channels than this Rotel can do.

 

[Beershaun]

I will say I love my setup with my Anthem mrx1140 and 7.2.4. the height channels and Atmos are game changing and the Anthem is a very capable receiver. My only complaint is the music streaming options are limited. (Spotify, airplay2 and Chromecast). I fully understand people not wanting to hang 11+ speakers all over their room though. For folks looking to just do 2.1 with their TV I think it's a great way to go and I'd suggest looking at options like the NAD M33

 

[rccarguy]

I am starting to believe this will be a lost year with new processors.

I do not need 15-17 channels, need at the most 5 Channels and up to 4 ( only have 2 now) Atmos, 1-2 subs ( 1 is fine for me).

I keep hoping someone will come out with something like Outlaw‘s 976, my only real needs, except for above, is XLR and HDMI 2.1.

But nothing is announced, not even rumors, my work around now is Roku and 4K BR Player on the Living Room TV, my PS5 and XBOX X on a different TV in a separate room.

In the Living Room, Yamaha 5200 with VTV Amps, Game Area, just a Denon 3800 that I was able to get on sale for $799 because of the HDMI 2.1 inputs, but compared to the Yamaha/VTV, it really sucks.

But I prefer everything on one TV, hence the need of HDMI 2.1, I am a widower, so no wife, unfortunately, to get mad at me while playing games on the main TV.

Do not want the Anthem, need something more plug and play, the new Emotivas might be a disaster at first with software, nothing from Yamaha, rumored ones from Onkyo seem to be vaporware.

Cheapest option could be emotiva mc-1

Unlikely you'll find a AV pre amp with atnos and only 5.1

Wouldn't make sense , it would to be chopped down from full on 11+ channel AV pre amp

AV pre amps usually used by medium to high end users so unlikely a high end cinema would be 5.1 if the person has funds for AV pre he's got funds for full on atmos speakers and the number of channels to go with it.

 

[theBruce]

Cheapest option could be emotiva mc-1

Unlikely you'll find a AV pre amp with atnos and only 5.1

Wouldn't make sense , it would to be chopped down from full on 11+ channel AV pre amp

AV pre amps usually used by medium to high end users so unlikely a high end cinema would be 5.1 if the person has funds for AV pre he's got funds for full on atmos speakers and the number of channels to go with it.

Purchasing a MC-1 does not help with the need for HDMI 2.1 and XLR outputs.

I can afford a more elaborate processor, I just hate to do so, why spend extra money on features I will never use.

Before Covid, there were at least a few options, Outlaw 976, Emotiva XMC-1, even the Yamaha 5200 ( which I own), I keep hoping some more options would be announced .

 

[rccarguy]

Purchasing a MC-1 does not help with the need for HDMI 2.1 and XLR outputs.

I can afford a more elaborate processor, I just hate to do so, why spend extra money on features I will never use.

Before Covid, there were at least a few options, Outlaw 976, Emotiva XMC-1, even the Yamaha 5200 ( which I own), I keep hoping some more options would be announced .

Hdmi 2.1 means extra cost.

Anthem avm70 2.1 etc

That's why I bought tonewinner at-300. £1050 and does what I want. Would be great if it had the room EQ like Dirac or anthem ARC but at 1/4 the price it's ok for me

 

[Dj7675]

Hdmi 2.1 means extra cost.

Anthem avm70 2.1 etc

That's why I bought tonewinner at-300. £1050 and does what I want. Would be great if it had the room EQ like Dirac or anthem ARC but at 1/4 the price it's ok for me

Do you use it's manual EQ ? That ability is what seems to save the unit. I'm sure great results can be had with manual EQ with enough work.

 

[rccarguy]

Do you use it's manual EQ ? That ability is what seems to save the unit. I'm sure great results can be had with manual EQ with enough work.

Tried manual I can't tell much difference it sound fine in pure mode from a cd.

Here are my plots within at300. Ignore corrections as I reset auto afterwards. red is without Eq, blue is after EQ. Green is correction curve

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[rccarguy]

I found auto to be horrid. Don't use it.

 

[Hayabusa]

Having a true stereo bass management is really a sparse feature it seems. Only one I have seen is the datasat ls10... Any one know an other one?

 

[theBruce]

Hdmi 2.1 means extra cost.

Anthem avm70 2.1 etc

That's why I bought tonewinner at-300. £1050 and does what I want. Would be great if it had the room EQ like Dirac or anthem ARC but at 1/4 the price it's ok for me

Again, the tonewinner would provide me with no improvement over my Yamaha 5200.

If the Anthem was around $2000-2500, I would consider it

 

[rccarguy]

Again, the tonewinner would provide me with no improvement over my Yamaha 5200.

If the Anthem was around $2000-2500, I would consider it

The AT-300 offers 5 channel EQ on the sub output. yeah it's pretty similar processor

My previous AV pre didn't even have HDMI - so a worthwhile update

 

[GXAlan]

Again, the tonewinner would provide me with no improvement over my Yamaha 5200.

If the Anthem was around $2000-2500, I would consider it

I am hoping that Yamaha will pull a Sony and release a new processor out of the blue somehow.

The CX-A line always was competitive for its time, especially when paired with their MX-A 11 channel amplifier which has the ideal gain structure for the lower voltage pre out.

Yamaha has the algorithms for 100’s of channels, so they could be very competitive if they chose to adapt the premium commercial technology to home audio.

They have finally gotten many of the firmware issues addressed with the current AVRs so I hope this lets them consider a 5000-series processor since they have a renewed interest in the 2 channel world too.