Processor recommendations.

[pearsall001]

Now that I know my NAD T773 can be used as a pure power amp using it's main in's (the preamp section is now completely bypassed) I can concentrate on a new processor. And since I have a two channel amp for my mains & a monoblock amp for my center, the NAD only has to power the surrounds.

It will be used in both HT & two channel listening, so a quality piece that will do two channel justice is what I'm looking for along with it's HT capabilities.

I know that Outlaw is coming out with a new flagship processor in the fall, & I think that Emotivea is also coming out with a new model. The NAD T175 also looks like a fine piece. I'm looking to spend around $2K.

I don't know how important it is that the processor decode all the latest audio formats because if the BlurRay player (my next purchase) does the decoding is it really necessary for the processor to also do it?

What other companies make a good processor in my budget range for me to take a look at. Thanks!

[stidrvr]

I know right now the Integra 9.8 is at the top of my list. Im not too sure about 2 channel, but as far as HT goes, it has everything and does everything correctly.

[kgveteran]

I've been a processor man for years.I started with Lexicon, then up to an EAD.I dumped the EAD and picked up an Outlaw990 when it was first launched. WTS, I purchased a Denon 3808ci receiver.I use it as a processor.It has Audyssey processing that has really impressed me.I've yet to upgrade the Audyssey version to Pro w/DynamicEQ.The receiver was $1,137.00 shipped.

I'm not sure if you read up on Audyssey, but it's worth it to look into it.

I found that my three mains, which are identical RS WTMW centers.Blend together.They no longer beam their location.The surrounds, (4) Mark K designed that I modified to a shallower cabinet depth for wall mounting, finally reinforce the envelope for perfect surround depth.The receiver has so many more features that I'll never use, that U may.

Am I starting to sound like a Denon rep. I'm done

I didn't mean to turn your venture into a receiver/processor debate, just an alternative.

Kg

[dtb300]

You have to know what your "feature" list is for your setup along with your price.

HDMI (video and/or audio), 7.1 analog in, on board decoding, video processing, etc. etc. etc. - too much to list.

Once you set your features, you can then look to see what is out there.

[kgveteran]

You have to know what your "feature" list is for your setup along with your price.

HDMI (video and/or audio), 7.1 analog in, on board decoding, video processing, etc. etc. etc. - too much to list.

Once you set your features, you can then look to see what is out there.

Great advice.I guess thats why the Denon fit. Feature list !!!

[pearsall001]

You have to know what your "feature" list is for your setup along with your price.

HDMI (video and/or audio), 7.1 analog in, on board decoding, video processing, etc. etc. etc. - too much to list.

Once you set your features, you can then look to see what is out there.

Great advise!! I never considered video processing until I read up on it. Now it seems like a nice feature, especially with the higher end chips. My current TV (Sony 50" LCD, no HDMI only DVI & componet)) is 5yrs old & is 1880i. Would this feature really benefit me now or more so down the road when it comes time for a new set?

Do you need on board audio processing if the BD player (my next purchase)already does that for you? Other than that I'm more concerned with really good two channel analog capability. I was never too much of a bells & whistles guy.

[kgveteran]

Do you need on board audio processing if the BD player (my next purchase)already does that for you?

Since I'm new to BR, what processing is needed ?

[dtb300]

Do you need on board audio processing if the BD player (my next purchase)already does that for you? Other than that I'm more concerned with really good two channel analog capability. I was never too much of a bells & whistles guy.

From what I have read the new Sony BDP-S550 will do all the audio decoding internally and output via 5.1/7.1 analog. The Blu-Ray.com website has some information on this player as well as other sites - but not being out yet it is pure speculation on its performance.

Sound quality of 5.1/7.1 pass through on a processor is something each processor imparts. Back when I bought my Arcam, I was amazed at the change in sound with the pass through on each of the components I auditioned. I am more concerned with audio/sound quality than video, so the Arcam became my choice (video was excellent but not my main concern). I also had all amplification externally, so I was not looking for anything with power in it. If I remember correctly I looked at Cary, Arcam, Anthem, Aragon, Krell, and others I may have forgotten. I would have liked a Theta or Meridian but they were way out of my price range.

Hopefully you will be able to listen to the processors before purchase and make your own decision on what you like.