Serious case of envy. I'm seriously considering getting an OCTO8 later this year, but, of course, it wont have the miniDSP nanoSHARK module.
I hear you - the DAC8 DSP is a great all in one solution.
It's too bad about the nanosharc modules, but you could go the PRO route and attach a computer for the crossovers via a software like Audiolense or equivalent. It might take you even further
That beeing said, I am not parting with the DSP anytime soon!
It's clearly been laid a significant amount of thought for the details and the operation of the unit.
The miniDSP software is familiar, and a breeze to set up. Laying out all the crossovers for each of the eight channels seems to work perfect. I like that one could set up profiles(diffrent xoverfreq,slopes,eq,etc) in the minidsp software and access them with the remote control via the menu of the DAC8. Giving it the set and forget kind of feel, but still able to tweak it a little while listening.
Changing inputs, adjusting volume and the menus is responsive and laid out exactly as one would expect - along with the great dimmable display giving the unit a overall solid feel.