Help! Rotel 1068 vs. Lexicon DC-1

[spkerguy]

Hello everyone,
Last week was a sad day for my Lexicon DC-1 processor. I just lost the center channel and sub inputs and found out to repair the unit it is going to be close to $475 (includes shipping). I love the sound from the unit but hate to put that kind of money in a processor with DACs from 1996. The last software upgrade (for DTS and THX) was done in 1999.

The question for everyone is, would there be a dramatic improvement by upgrading to the 1068? The lex when it came out was around 5K but that was many years ago. Just curious what everyone's thoughts are on it.

Ken

[Clepto]

Personally, I've never compared the two, and since I have working equipment, I'm likely going to hold off until the 1068's replacement for the HDMI audio capabilities (hopefully HDMI 1.3)

[spkerguy]

How much longer do you think we will be waiting? I can do about 6months I guess running all my movies in 4.0 sound! No sub and NO center!

Thanks,

Ken

[IntegrateMe]

I traded in a MC-1 for a RSP-1068 and noticed no difference in stereo performance, but did notice a significant difference in DD/DTS performance as it pertained to spacial imaging and precision imaging.

I think that you would be best served by purchasing a 1068 now, then you can sell it on ebay for a minor loss when you are ready to upgrade again.

[spkerguy]

Thanks for your reply. That is a very interesting observation you made. So you noticed a pretty big difference in imaging? THe MC-1 is an upgrade to what I have right now. Just out of curiosity, what amp and speakers are you running? You mentioned that you didn't notice a difference in stereo performance. I know the lexicon DC/MC series did not have a true analog bypass. Are you running analog out from your CD player?


Also to anyone out there: how does the RSP-1068 compare sonically to the Arcam AVP700? I know the AVP700 is newer, but it uses the same DSP engine. I don't really need the HDMI switching that the arcam has. I just want something good for HT and music.

thanks,

Ken

I traded in a MC-1 for a RSP-1068 and noticed no difference in stereo performance, but did notice a significant difference in DD/DTS performance as it pertained to spacial imaging and precision imaging.

I think that you would be best served by purchasing a 1068 now, then you can sell it on ebay for a minor loss when you are ready to upgrade again.

[gianni]

Personally, I would not let a decision such as this be influenced much by HDMI.
HDMI still has issues to be worked out and even then many do not consider it a 'must' have.

[spkerguy]

I agree with you about HDMI. It is going to be at least a year before the new audio formats start to be incorporated in new processors since it looks like HDMI v1.3 will be required. I'm just looking at something that will definitely give me better sound for HT and music than my DC-1. Otherwise I'll just pay the $500 and get the DC-1 repaired.

Thanks,

Ken

Personally, I would not let a decision such as this be influenced much by HDMI.
HDMI still has issues to be worked out and even then many do not consider it a 'must' have.

[mike.g]

any update or further comments on this.

I am looking at a 2nd hand processor and always thought a lexicon dc-2 (or even dc-1) would be much BETTER than a rotel 1068.

despite it's age the lexicon was still sonically superieor as well as being highly configurable and with many features such as logic 7 which I thought was better than DPLII. AV sync, excellent bass management, THX

[hifiguymi]

any update or further comments on this.

I am looking at a 2nd hand processor and always thought a lexicon dc-2 (or even dc-1) would be much BETTER than a rotel 1068.

despite it's age the lexicon was still sonically superieor as well as being highly configurable and with many features such as logic 7 which I thought was better than DPLII. AV sync, excellent bass management, THX

I think the Lexicon processors are great at surround processing, both movie and music, but I never did like sound of the preamp. They always sounded cold and sterile and didn't have the weight or "salm" in the bass that something in that price range should have. I think the RSP-1068 is a better sounding preamp than a DC-1 or MC-1, but it would be a close call on the surround processing. Your right about the set up and flexability of the Lexicons as well. They are a breeze to set up.

Eric

[lvhung]

I own Nuforce avp16
Working with no fault

[shadow 8]

Logic 7 is still waay ahead of any choices on the Rotel. It is also better made with better parts. However, no analog 5/7 channel inputs for DVD-A or SACD or from a blu ray or HD DVD, which is a killer for me. Shawn Fogg has an upgrade he installs on the older Lexes allowing this analog input for around $200. I would be inclined to get my Lex upgraded and keep it if I were in your position.

[asuwal]

I own Nuforce avp16
Working with no fault

lvhung,
I am curious to know how nuforce avp16 mates with RB 1080. Do you primarily use Nuforce avp16 as a pre-amp or surround processor? I am considering this equipment since I read that it has an ht-bypass.

Thanks.

[spkerguy]

DC-1 MUCH better for movies...1068 Better for CDs

I have the DC-1 and the 1068 and find the DC-1 MUCH better for movies. Now for CDs, I find the 1068 in bypass mode Much better than the DC-1 since lex doesn't have a true analog bypass.

[shadow 8]

You can get a true bypass for the Lex for about $200 installed.