My new Emotiva home theater

[julio]

I am submitting my initial review of my new Emotiva Home Theater.

I will be updating this thread with more photos to compliment my statements soon. I will also sub-divide the review for speakers, amplifiers and processor.

Purchase Summary

Emotiva ERT 8.3 Reference Towers (2) $1,199
Emotiva ERM 6.3 LCR Monitor (1) $399
Emotiva ERD-1 Surrounds (4) $498
Emotiva X-Ref12 Subwoofer (1) $629
Emotiva UMC-1 Processor (1) $499
Emotiva XPA-5 Amplifier (1) $899
Emotiva XPA-2 Amplifier (1) $799

Total Purchase: $4,922


Initial Review

Purchase experience was really straight forward and received e-mail confirmation same day. I called Emotiva to make a change to my order and it was immediately taken care of and received tracking numbers for my order within one hour.

My order was shipped Wednesday and was delivered Friday to my door. Only one box (ERT8.3) showed signs of being mistreated by the carrier (Absolutely nothing to do with Emotiva).
To my surprise, every single piece of equipment was double boxed and heavily protected by sturdy foam. Emotiva really goes the extra mile to make sure the equipment arrives as safe as possible.

The ERD-1s presented no challenge to install and the excellent and well thought mounting plates made it a breeze. Fit was perfect, not loose but not tight.



The ERT 8.3s, ERM 6.3, and X-Ref12 now provides my room some needed beauty. The X-Ref12 was momentarily connected via XLR cable until it can be run into the wall.




Unfortunately, I don't have an A/V Rack yet, so I had to temporarily setup/stack my gear in the tech room (right behind the ht room).
Everything is nice and neat now.. so no cables lying around.



So…two hours later and ERD-1s installed, I stacked my gear nicely and started connecting all cables. I used XLR to RCA from the UMC-1 to both XPA-2 and XPA-5 amps. (I set amps to Balanced inputs at this time) The only input I connected to the UMC-1 was my Oppo BDP-93 player via HDMI, and output to my Epson 8500UB projector via HDMI. Once all interconnects were in place and triple checked… I fired up my Panamax 5300PM and I was greeted by the lovely blue colored LEDs.

The HDMI handshake were really noticeable but didn’t really bothered me much. I then verified input names / settings and connected the mic to proceed with EmoQ.

The ambient testing failed on and on, until I recalled reading to tap the mic to register some noise. Once the ambient test passed and the EmoQ process took place, no sound was coming off the speakers. We turned everything off and verified everything was ok with a toner and other tools. After some troubleshooting and changing from Balanced – Unbalanced in the amps, we used some old but new RCA cables laying around to replace theXLR-to-RCA from UMC-1 to both amps.




Once the ambient test passed and the EmoQ process took place, I literally jumped off my seat as the test tones started. The tones were extremely loud and even my fiend/installer was surprised on how loud they were. (Some testing later on with my Radio Shack Analog SPL meter showed these tones were above 80dbs) After EmoQ completed and showed the results, we were shocked about the results. They were way off! Nonetheless, I loaded a CD to hear what the system had to offer. I was horrified by the sound and booming coming off my new system, so I immediately stopped the CD and turned off my Oppo player.

Once again we attempted to run EmoQ, but it kept failing even after tapping the mic lightly. I turned off all equipment for five minutes and turned back on. After numerous failed attempts, ambient test passed and proceeded with test. Results were slightly different but not by much. I tried a couple other times and loaded different CDs and still same results. After an hour and countless attempts, we decided to just use the tape measure and use my SPL meter.

EmoQ Distances




EmoQ set my left & right front speakers to full range (40hz), center channel to 90hz and surrounds to 120hz. (Photo will be uploaded later)

After using tape measure these are the actual measurements



EmoQ Speaker Levels




After some more testing and playing around, I set my crossover points to: (Photos comming soon)

Front Left: 70hz
Front Right: 70hz
Center: 80hz
Side Surround Left: 90hz
Side Surround Right: 90hz
Back Surround Left: 90hz
Back Surround Right: 90hz
Subwoofer: 80hz

Speaker Levels range between -4.5 for fronts, -3.5 center, -2.0 – 1.5 for surrounds and -6 for sub. We decided to manually set the speaker levels, so we used the SPL meter set to 75db and make changes to UMC-1. We set boundary compensation on and off during our tests and noticed it was better, but still way too boomy on bass. After some more troubleshooting, I decide to separate the speakers from the wall (My friend moved them from my starting point so he could prepare the wiring)

By moving the front speakers and sub away from the walls resulted in a huge change, but I was still not satisfied. I decided to take a look at the X-Ref12 settings and noticed that it was set to “Movie” mode. I immediately recalled a post (Sorry I don’t remember who it was) stating that Lonnie informed that “Movie” mode will increase 6db in the 400hz area. I set the sub to “Flat” mode and manually set the crossover to 80hz. So, I verified again the Speaker Distances, Crossover Points, DVD Audio settings (No EQ), and I loaded my CD and WOW! What a difference!!!






Speakers Review

I loaded several CDs, DTS-CD and a few BluRay concerts DTS-MA. Heck, I even loaded a few MP3s and FLACs for the sake of it.
The speakers are indeed flat. (I was able to get my Mackie Studio Monitors for comparison)

I love the rear settings where I can tweak highs and midrange. The sound was very clear and tight. Very good imaging, however I noticed it lacked soundstage and most importantly for me… openness!  They were not providing that sense of the artist being right there with me.

Of course my friend immediately reminded me that all speakers have a “break-in” period where components will loosen and speakers will then sound better. (He was right and point granted)
I also noticed that “volume output” was considerably “low” for me, and I had to set the volume between 38 and 45 for reasonable listening (This is nowhere near loud at all). Is this normal? What is your average volume level set to when using UMC-1 and XPA amps?

I decided to let the system run with a CD with the room’s doors closed and started cleaning up, and having a break. 2 hours later we opened the door and the sound was much, much better.
Now, there was more soundstage and some openness. I thought it was that particular song/CD, so I loaded another CD and certainly the sound improved. We watched Peal Harbor, and while I must say that the X-Ref12 is a beast, I was disappointed with the center channel. Although the vocals are clear and defined, it lacks to provide that “fullness” and I think it sounds “thin”.

I went ahead and put some more music before shutting down, and I can without a doubt say that they are improving. I am sure they will continue to “open-up” the more I use them, so I can’t wait to get home and put some music. I am aware I need to troubleshoot some more and manually set EQ at a later time. I hope there’s something I can do to improve the center channel sound and possibly get the surrounds a tad louder.. I don’t meant to jack up their volume as I know they provide some ambience sounds every now and then and they are quite most of the time, but would like to hear them a little more when they do output some material.

Is anyone using XLR to RCA cables from UMC-1 to their amps? If so, what’s your setting to?

I would certainly prefer to use these instead of the cheap RCA cables I am using right now.

I now it has nothing to do with Emotiva, but it would have been great if they throw some cables in my order. I mean it was a $4900 order.

I will be adding more photos and expanding my review for UMC-1 and amps to this post. I will appreciate any comments/suggestions.

[Erwin.BE]

Julio,

I really don't see the point in using XLR to RCA cables.

The center speaker is the most important speaker. IMO, Emotiva should make one as bulky as their largest tower. I plan to invest some of the money I hope to have saved by building the other speakers myself into the development (designing and testing the filter) of a super center.

For the rest: nice system. Maybe consider getting a second sw one day and some acoustic treatment.

[Deleted]

Great review. The thing that caught my eye was what a great system this was for $4900. I know this is alot of money but alot of people spend that much on just their front two speakers and you got EVERYTHING(-cables) for this price. My buddy and his brother both have the 8.3s and I think they are a great speaker for the money. Have lots of fun playing with all your new stuff and keep us posted on your thoughts.

[NorthStar]

This is a fabulous & complete sound system for five grands. Congratulations!

* And I agree 100% with Erwin's above post.

[julio]

Guys:

Thanks for you replies. Don't get me wrong. I believe price-performance ratio is great.
I just need to wait until the speakers break-in and open up to their full potential before I can emit a full statement/review.

I know I can get better sound by manual EQ, it just takes time and patience. I will have more than enough time for that. I would just like to have good quality RCA interconnects to start with.

By the way.. for those who may wonder about my HDMI handshake latency and sound drops, I have firmware 7.4.10.

I also wonder if I performed correctly the speaker levels by using my SPL meter. (I basically set it to 70 and had each speaker go steady to 75 by adjusting each level).

What about the output level? How much do you guys (with UMC-1 and XPA2 or XPA5) have to turn up the volume for decent output level? Is 40 - 45 normal or is it too high?

Anyone else notice the center channel being really thin? I mean, even my Bose 3-2-1 had more presence and punch with vocals!

Emotiva Rep: Can I get a nice deal for some RCA interconnects???

[NorthStar]

- Take your time & time given: Check!

- Good quality Interconnects: Check!

- HDMI handshake issues: Usually from Satellite/Cable TV boxes.

- 75dB for adjusting your independent speaker levels: Check! (Good.)

- Master output level selection: To your own Preference!

- Center channel level: Adjust to your own Preference. (Each Movie is different.)

- Deal on RCA Interconnects: Just ask them (on the phone).

[julio]

Lord Of The Ring EE:

I have not connected my AT&T U-verse DVR yet. It is not annoying, perhaps it is better than the problems many had with the UMC-1. It's just that it is much more noticeable than other units.
Will contact Emotiva for the cables and see what happens.

Thanks for the "checklist".

[FLcanuck]

Nice set-up!!

A couple of thoughts for you....

First of all I might save the settings you currently have in one of the other 2 setting spots you can have for EQ. Then you can play and tweak to your heart's content without losing your current/original settings.

For the center channel -- lots of tweaks you can try -- the switches on the back of the speaker for treble and mid control, and the boundary compensation -- I would play with those to see if you get the "fuller" sound you're looking for. You can also reduce the -dB compensation settings in the UMC EQ. Also, check which mode you're listening to (pure direct, PLIIx, etc.) -- it can have an impact on how the center channel sounds. You might also check all your connections for your center. It should definitely sound better than a Bose speaker!!

As far as volume levels -- I typically listen to my concert DVDs/Blu-rays between 35 and 50 so you're fine in that regard.

I'm sure you'll get it all dialed in nicely.

[NorthStar]

Sept 12, 2011 18:19:22 GMT -5 julio said:

Lord Of The Ring EE:

I have not connected my AT&T U-verse DVR yet. It is not annoying, perhaps it is better than the problems many had with the UMC-1. It's just that it is much more noticeable than other units.
Will contact Emotiva for the cables and see what happens.

Thanks for the "checklist".

Hey Julio,

1. Call me Bob (I'm in the phone book! ;D => ...in my sig.)

2. Sorry about your HDMI handshake issues between your UMC-1, your Oppo BD player, and your Epson projector. I am not the expert on that, but I do know that there are solutions (I just don't remember right now).
- Did you disable the CEC control feature from all your components?
- And did you disable BD-Live from your BD player?
- Also, if you are using a Universal remote control, try this below.

To power your components in the right sequential order:
1. Your Projector (Epson) first.
2. Your BD player (Oppo) second.
3. Your Pre/pro (Emo) third.
4. Your Amplifier(s) (Emo) last.
* And you can even adjust a separate delay for each component being powered by your remote (just in case that the above is not totally 100% perfect).

3. Describe me exactly what's goin' on, after trying the above suggestions, and I will try my very best to help you in getting a good HDMI communication between your UMC-1 and all your other components.
I don't guaranty it but I surely know a few from frequenting so many Audio/Video forums all over the Internet.
-> Also, it takes only one reader's attention and you're on your way to Heaven, if you know what I mean...

4. Good lock with getting a better deal with Emo RCA Interconnects!
-> They are already an excellent deal! ...But you know that! ;D

[roadrunner]

Julio

Just from a quick look at your speaker placement you need to put more effort into obtaining better toe-in; pointing the tweeter on your center channel speaker to ear-level at your listening spot; working on your distances from the side walls and rear wall. The sound-stage and imaging will both be greatly enhanced when you make these adjustments. Your missing "presence" is directly attributable to your poor center channel placement. Right now, it looks like your center's tweeter is aimed at your knees.

Imaging and sound-stage are strengths of the Emotiva Reference Series speakers. It is easier to obtain good imaging and sound-stage with them than with most other speakers I have used. We would be able to offer more direct help if you can provide more detailed information about your listening room and show the relative placement of all speakers to the room's furnishings -- particularly the listening spot's distance from all your gear, doors, windows, and adjacent room openings.

You are correct in thinking that performance will keep improving as the speakers continue to break-in. In the mean time, read the manual and experiment with using the EmoQ feature and the EQing across the various frequency bands. The UMC-1 give you great flexibility in sculpting the performance to match your needs/desire. Don't be afraid the experiment.

You have a very nice group of Home Theater components that will give you years of enjoyment listening to music and watching movies. Enjoy.

[Deleted]

Julio,

What a great review so far with lots of information and detail. Here are some misc comments that might help.

.....Forget the auto setup and do it manually.

.....It almost is always better for imaging, soundstage, etc. to have the speakers out away from the corners and walls and any other boundary including the screen. This is especially difficult for the center but too close to the screen/wall usually can make the center sound a little heavy rather than thin. At least 2, 3 or even 4 feet is great, this is how you will see the best demo setups at dealers. Practically speaking this is not possible except for huge home theaters and even then might not be aesthetically pleasing. Do the best you can and use the boundary switch if it improves the 200-500Hz range or so.

.....Break-in period. Speakers are the one time I really believe in a lot of break-in time. Whenever you are gone for the first week or two leave the system on continuously with a music source or white noise or just plain inter-station FM noise. Leave it up at least to medium volume levels at long as it does not bother your family. I leave mine on 24/7 at first.

.....The 6.3 is a superb speaker from 80Hz and up and should be very similar in voicing to the 8.3 except the 8.3 might have a little additional bass slam above 80Hz. If you have the 6.3 set up correctly then the sub takes over from 80Hz and down for the 6.3 and it should sound great. I am guessing here that something is wrong with your settings. Be sure you have the UMC-1 set for "small" for all speakers including the 6.3. There should be a continuous fairly flat blend for the center channel sound from the higher end all the way down to the low limits of the sub. There is no reason that the 6.3 should sound thin unless the 8.3's are peaked somewhere and by comparison make the 6.3 sound thin.

.....Try all the settings on the 6.3 and perhaps turn off the boundary comp switch and play with the mid control also. I would also turn off all channels for a test and leave on the center and the sub. If it still sounds thin on a music source with lots of string bass the something in the 6.3/sub blend is off. Do a frequency response test on the 6.3/sub only if you have a test CD.

.....Monoprice RCA cables are a great value and they are almost free! I just ordered three cables from them to test my Airmotiv4 thru my computer. $6 including USPS first class! I have used their 2 meter RCA's to my XPA-5 but now have Emo IC's because they are so pretty!

.....I hope Roadrunner offers some help here also because he owns all of the Emo speakers and is a true expert on them. There are also a number of folks at the lounge who have the 6.3's as LCR in their home theaters and love them. (Whoops, I see he did while I was writing my long winded post and eating my wonton soup. ;D)

I wouldn't worry about the gain level you see on the UMC-1. It is dependent on the individual system and only important to use as a reference point for your own uses and only important that you have enough gain to max out your playback volume to your amps and your satisfaction.

.....Be patient Julio. ;D


PS: I agree with RR about getting the center higher as we had discussed in a PM. Also it looks like from the before and later photo that you moved the 8.3 out a little bit toward the side wall with no toe-in as RR mentioned. Try the 8.3's in as close to the screen as possible without blocking the screen, same with getting the center up higher. Even a solid DIY block below the speaker stand or some heavy high density black or painted black foam between the top of the stand and the 6.3 might work (the same size as the top surface on the speaker stand.

[ottaone]

Congrats! Amazing what you can build for $5K using Emo products especially when these are on sale.

On the center channel, just ensure that it is indeed pointing up towards the ears. I have a 6.3 for center and I can tell you that it is better than most Boses I've heard.

You have time in your hands with a set up like that so take your time with the adjustments, relax, and enjoy!

[sagasa]

Try different mike. I got mine two weeks ago i used my Onkyo 805 mike to run the EQ everything
reads ok.

[gmeyer]

Looks like a R710 sitting there.

[Deleted]

Julio, I'm not familiar with the UMC-1, but be sure you have the sub setup to get both the redirected bass from each speaker below their crossover point and the LFE (low frequency effect) channel. Check the UMC-1 manual how to set this. I have heard of some folks mistakenly sending only the LFE channel to the sub.

[richardrc]

Congrats on your very clean HT julio

Your surrounds appear to be mounted quite high up on the wall which is probably contributing to thier percieved quiteness. If you stand in the listening position how do they sound? I have a similar problem and am thinking of making some timber blocks to better direct them over the top of the listening position. It is unfortunate that of all the speakers, you have no physical adjustment after attachment to the wall.

As for the centre chanel keep playing, mine really came to life after I put some wedges under the front to better direct it toward the listening position.

Are you considering some room treatments as they may well help the sound stage.

Your RCA to Balanced cables will not work in this configuration as the amp is expecting a "balanced in" but you are only providing half the signal. I can recommend the Emo RCAs (I had to pay for mine on a similar sized order, so don't be too upset )

I think you will come to love the 8.3's after they are fully broken in. I am very sceptical about "break in" with regards electrical devices but can testify that for speakers it is true and mine now sound heaps better than when they were new.

I will also like to know of your impressions of the XRef Sub as I am thinking of getting one.

You are off to a great start

[HDSapper]

Sept 12, 2011 16:33:32 GMT -5 julio said:

What about the output level? How much do you guys (with UMC-1 and XPA2 or XPA5) have to turn up the volume for decent output level? Is 40 - 45 normal or is it too high?

Since getting the Emotiva speakers, I'm listening at 40-48 on the UMC-1. Note I only have the XPA-5; no XPA-2.

[denist]

Nice room

Have the same setup

I love the xref 12 and it's not
Broken in yet

It's deep clean and tight and I dint know how to tweak it to room

I'm thinking emq it then get the test sweeps for subs and and peq the 2 bands in the sub for any other anomillies but it sounds awesome looking at getting a second

[wizardofoz]

that dell server must be a damn noisy brute... lucky you have all that power to drown it out

[laserman35]

I'm a little confused on the UMC-1 listening levels to 40 or 45.
I have a Marantz receiver and the level starts at 40 if i remember correctly with no volume and goes up to -40.
-10 is as loud as i care to ever listen to and with most movies being played at +10 to +15. The amps seems to have lots of reserved power.

what is the volume range on the UMC-1 does it have enough output voltage to the amp? Or could my Marantz be to much voltage?
I'm considering Emotiva for my next processor but I may rethink this if I'm short on power or Emotiva processor not giving me enough output voltage.

My AMPS are the XPA-5 and the XPA-3 with same 8.3 and 6.3 used for the fronts.

One suggestion on your room. I filled in the front of my theater room with 4" acoustic foam. It's seemed to make a huge difference to the sound-stage. There is no uncovered space around the speaker.
The size of my room is small so i was only able to put the speakers 6" away from the wall. My center tweeter is at my ear level and my 8.3 are just a little bit higher but i towed them in with a laser pointer to my left and right ears. I'm not able to tune my system yet. My Marantz receiver has a broken HDMI section and i am forced to run in pure direct mode now with RCA's.
I believe acoustic treatment and speaker positioning made all the difference in my system and i do think it sounds amazing.