ed1950
Seeker Of Truth
Updated to XMC-1 from MC 700
Posts: 6 
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Post by ed1950 on Mar 10, 2017 15:25:20 GMT -5
rReplacement MC-700 arrived this morning. Works with all inputs: analog, digital, UHD , HD, even 3D! Fine, detailed sound. Very satisfied so far. Amazed with the acoustics of the unit. The Unit displays Dolby Vision from Apple 4K tv and Netflix with stunning visuals!
LG B8 OLED TV
Sony UBP-X800M2 UHD blu-Ray player
Emotiva XMC-1 preamp
Emotiva XPA Seven channel amp
Emotiva ERC-3 CD player
Technics SL-L1 linear turntable
Emotiva XPS-1 phono preamp
Audio Technica AT152LP stylus
Escient Fireball music manager system
Apple MAC Mini
Apple 4K TV
Martin Logan Speakers: Aerius, Cinema, Scripts, Frescos
JBL ES150P subwoofers
Sennheiser HD 650 headphones
Monster audio & video cables
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Post by jolaca on Mar 12, 2017 13:38:51 GMT -5
Unit froze up? Completely?? Maybe you can restore it somehow with some sort of full reset. Sorry to hear that anyway, I really hope this doesn't happen to me whenever I receive my MC-700 as I'm in Spain!.
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Post by dbesh2 on Mar 17, 2017 21:09:25 GMT -5
2nd day, latest firmware, very impressed. Just ran EMOQ which appeared to be a little smoother operation than what I recall with the UMC-200. No results saying anything is out of phase (which it is not and was not then).
It does tell me to set 3 front speakers at LARGE and set all Xovers at 65Hz. Instead, I used SMALL and 80Hz, using the THX standard which always seemed to work best for me.
Sound appears more detailed, but not edgy. This is especially apparent when listening to the clarity of soft voices. I have not found it necessary to tweak up my center channel. Other than the crossover changes, everything else is 'emo-cal'.
I picked up a BasX A-500 also, and the Dual Dynamo appear ready to take on anything at it's price, and some above, that is in a package called a 'receiver'. And maybe even some 'lesser' components.
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Post by darklight0tr on Mar 20, 2017 19:19:52 GMT -5
Upgraded to the MC-700 from the UMC-1. Out of the box experience is impressive and I really love it. Firmware is 2.8.7 which I assume is the latest since nothing is posted on the MC-700 page.
Pros:
-Quick startup time.
-Wicked fast HDMI lock on (something the UMC-1 always had trouble with) - UPDATE 03/31/17 - When it works. I've been having black screens and No Signal on startup about 33% of the time, requiring me to power cycle once or twice to finally get video. Trying the new v2.9.0 BETA firmware to see if that resolves the issue.
-4K and HDR support works great.
-Out of the box sound quality is superior. Sound is more crisp, defined and detailed.
-Auto detection of surround protocols works perfectly.
Cons:
-VFD quality could be better. Smaller and dimmer than the UMC-1 making it quite difficult to read from a distance.
-Informative OSD (Volume, input, etc) doesn't work in 4K, which compounds the complaint listed above.
-Added 03/31/17 - Volume knob brightness is too high for dark viewing environments, and unfortunately the dimming is directly tied to the VFD, which is already pretty dim. I've unfortunately had to dim the VFD as the volume knob brightness is much higher by comparison.
-Configuration GUI looks like an old school BIOS setup and navigation is really wonky. The UMC-1 has a much better configuration GUI and its easier to use.
-Auto lipsync doesn't appear to work at all. I had to set it to 125ms just as I did for the UMC-1 to get things synchronized.
-Remote is really basic. If you don't have a universal remote you're going to be disappointed.
-Looks like Dolby Volume is gone from the UMC-1, though I never used the feature.
Despite the issues it is a worthy upgrade for UMC-1 owners. Thanks Emotiva!
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Post by donnyb on Mar 21, 2017 14:15:14 GMT -5
I received my MC-700 along with my A-700 amplifier on January 20th,. This unit is currently performing 5.1 channel non-4K duty in my home office. I have it connected to my Oppo BDP-93 and my PC. I did have a few initial issues, most of which have been sorted with a combination of "premium certified" HDMI cables and my Harmony remote power sequencing. The unit is amazing. I mostly use it for playing FLAC files from my PC through my Creative Sound Blaster ZxR card that uses a Burr Brown Dac. Occasionally I play movies and listed to SACD through the Oppo. Although my office uses Q series KEF for LCR duties, this system comes very close to my main system which costs easily 4 times more. Those on the fence and thinking of purchasing this unit will not be disappointed, Once the last of the quirks are ironed out with a firmware update this system will have earned it's place in my home for years to come. This was my first Emotiva purchase, but I'm sure it will not be my last.  I am thinking about running the same set up for my house. MC-700 and A-700 will replace my Denon 4520ic, but I am concern with how much power the A-700 will produce. |
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Post by drysdale on Mar 21, 2017 14:46:19 GMT -5
In a few months I hope to buy an AVR. The Yamaha Aventage 1060 is my current top candidate. I just discovered Emotiva a few months ago and I have been considering their products.
Does the MC-700 support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X? it was not clear from the website. The website cites these features:
• "Support for all popular surround sound formats – including Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS, DTS HD Master Audio, DTS Neo:6, and S/PDIF and multi-channel PCM digital audio."
I do not know if this description includes Atmos and DTS:X
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Post by doc1963 on Mar 21, 2017 14:56:39 GMT -5
In a few months I hope to buy an AVR. The Yamaha Aventage 1060 is my current top candidate. I just discovered Emotiva a few months ago and I have been considering their products. Does the MC-700 support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X? it was not clear from the website. The website cites these features: • "Support for all popular surround sound formats – including Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS, DTS HD Master Audio, DTS Neo:6, and S/PDIF and multi-channel PCM digital audio." I do not know if this description includes Atmos and DTS:X Sorry, but no, it doesn't. The upgraded XMC-1 and upcoming RMC-1 will support Atmos and DTS-X, but both will cost considerably more than the MC-700. The new (but yet to be released) Emersa pre/pro will support Atmos/DTS-X, but pricing and availability are unknown at this time. |
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KeithL
Administrator 
Posts: 10,256
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Post by KeithL on Mar 21, 2017 14:57:24 GMT -5
The MC-700 does NOT support Dolby Atmos or DTS-X. Dolby Atmos and DTS-X are object oriented formats, and only provide significant benefits if you're using height channels. The MC-700 supports up to 7.1 channels of surround sound - but not height channels. In a few months I hope to buy an AVR. The Yamaha Aventage 1060 is my current top candidate. I just discovered Emotiva a few months ago and I have been considering their products. Does the MC-700 support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X? it was not clear from the website. The website cites these features: • "Support for all popular surround sound formats – including Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS, DTS HD Master Audio, DTS Neo:6, and S/PDIF and multi-channel PCM digital audio." I do not know if this description includes Atmos and DTS:X |
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Post by drysdale on Mar 21, 2017 15:33:27 GMT -5
thanks for your replies.
I am currently planning on a 5.1 surround. I would need to buy some front height speakers, I already bought the 5.1 speakers/sub. My listening room is too small for rears, but I could do front height speakers. My main use will be watching movies in 5.1 Dolby thru Xfinity and 5.1 Dolby and DTS concert videos. I also want my AVR (or pre amp plus amp) to do doubly duty for 2.1 stereo. I like that the MC-700 does support 4k pass thru, HDR and the new copy protection 2.2 scheme. That should make it somewhat future proof (maybe for 5 years or so). If I only do 5.1, Atmos and DTS:X become moot points and there will be less of a reason to upgrade.
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Post by sydhaynes on Mar 21, 2017 17:19:26 GMT -5
I received my MC-700 along with my A-700 amplifier on January 20th,. This unit is currently performing 5.1 channel non-4K duty in my home office. I have it connected to my Oppo BDP-93 and my PC. I did have a few initial issues, most of which have been sorted with a combination of "premium certified" HDMI cables and my Harmony remote power sequencing. The unit is amazing. I mostly use it for playing FLAC files from my PC through my Creative Sound Blaster ZxR card that uses a Burr Brown Dac. Occasionally I play movies and listed to SACD through the Oppo. Although my office uses Q series KEF for LCR duties, this system comes very close to my main system which costs easily 4 times more. Those on the fence and thinking of purchasing this unit will not be disappointed, Once the last of the quirks are ironed out with a firmware update this system will have earned it's place in my home for years to come. This was my first Emotiva purchase, but I'm sure it will not be my last. I am thinking about running the same set up for my house. MC-700 and A-700 will replace my Denon 4520ic, but I am concern with how much power the A-700 will produce. I'm assuming you are concerned because the Denon 4520CI is rated at 150 wpc @ 8 ohm 2 channels driven and the A-700 is rated at 110 wpc with the same load? I can tell you this, I replaced a Pioneer SC-57 that was rated at 140 wpc @ 8 ohm with 2 channels driven. I would never go back, the sound of the MC-700 and A-700 is no real comparison at all. There are more important things than just pure power, buy one and you'll understand. If you are close to Houston you are welcome to stop by for a demo. |
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Post by donnyb on Mar 21, 2017 17:30:42 GMT -5
I'm assuming you are concerned because the Denon 4520CI is rated at 150 wpc @ 8 ohm 2 channels driven and the A-700 is rated at 110 wpc with the same load? I can tell you this, I replaced a Pioneer SC-57 that was rated at 140 wpc @ 8 ohm with 2 channels driven. I would never go back, the sound of the MC-700 and A-700 is no real comparison at all. There are more important things than just pure power, buy one and you'll understand. If you are close to Houston you are welcome to stop by for a demo. Thank you for info and the offer, but I am in Sacramento. I am leaning towards the A-700, guess it can't hurt to put my name on the MC-700 waiting list.  Also I am running a 7.1 system. |
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Post by Boomzilla on Mar 21, 2017 21:03:37 GMT -5
I'm considering the MC-700, but am quite disappointed that it doesn't offer DLNA streaming over Ethernet. Nevertheless, for its price, I don't think I see anything else comprable.
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Post by donnyb on Mar 22, 2017 7:09:11 GMT -5
I'm considering the MC-700, but am quite disappointed that it doesn't offer DLNA streaming over Ethernet. Nevertheless, for its price, I don't think I see anything else comprable. I am the opposite, as I am look for something simple and just decode/switch audio and video inputs.(which is surprisingly hard to find) I don't need all the bells and whistles. I'll let my sources handle my needs. |
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Post by Boomzilla on Mar 22, 2017 9:01:38 GMT -5
...I am look for something simple and just decode/switch audio and video inputs.(which is surprisingly hard to find).. In that case, you don't need a processor at all. You need an Oppo BDP-105 or else the new (coming next month?) UDP-205.  |
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Post by bigkwewu on Mar 22, 2017 11:31:10 GMT -5
Nice audio, kludgy OSD i.e,(setup, mode, input, speakers, etc), I know it was cheep, you get what you pay for = you pay for what you get.
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Post by donnyb on Mar 22, 2017 11:55:00 GMT -5
...I am look for something simple and just decode/switch audio and video inputs.(which is surprisingly hard to find).. In that case, you don't need a processor at all. You need an Oppo BDP-105 or else the new (coming next month?) UDP-205. Thanks that a pretty good option, but one input would limit me and require a switch. |
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Post by donnyb on Apr 18, 2017 10:22:11 GMT -5
Well I got the MC-700 yesterday and hooked it up to the Denon 4520ic through the external in. Not sure if this is the ideal way since it seem like a little bit of work to balance the amp. My wife did notices a difference in a good way. We watch most of viewing through the AppleTV and noticed when fast-forwarding (which is how my wife watches TV) in Plex it takes about a half second for audio to restart and sometime we would get a single pop noise. With that said, I ordered a A-700 last night to create hopefully a better connection and a cleaner look. My current set up is going to be Sony XBR-65X850B, AppleTV GEN4, Ultra Chromecast, connected to MC-700. I am running a 7.1 system and before I could turn on/off the system via the AppleTV. I am hoping the MC/A-700 can be triggered on/off by my AppleTV.
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Post by jolaca on Apr 26, 2017 10:18:51 GMT -5
Hi again! I am going to tell you my impressions comparing it to my previous PRE that was a bit old now, but 'high-end' then Tag McLaren AV32R DP (it had Dual-Shark 192kHZ DACs, etc, etc) : So, after setting everything up I have to say I am really happy with my new piece of kit!!. First of all, being this an entry level pre from Emotiva, I was not so sure that the MC700 would be capable of improving AV32R DP sound quality. However, I have to say it has exceeded my expectations: It is not a night&day SQ difference but I have found it more detailed and airy and after only applying emoQ, it also renders a very tight and controlled bass. Moreover, even having REW applied to my Tag, I don't know why but the MC700 seemed to have a more balanced level between all speakers. Even my wife, that normally doesn't tend to praise or be wowed by these kind of things said during the 'premiere' of the Rogue One Blu Ray that the sound was more immersive and that it was surrounding us more than ever: I guess playing it with DTS-MA-HD 7.1 had something to do with that. But truth to be told, she was right and I was noticing more than ever the surround and surround-back speakers!! Listening to music is also impressive as the sound is sweet and detailed and a bit more open but as I said it's not night and day. Maybe the Tag sounded a little more harsh but not necessarily in a bad way, I mean I guess it's just a matter of the DACs used, it may be than the tag DACs are a little more neutral than the Emotiva ones and thus the differences though, I really don't know, I am not an expert at all comparing pres, just telling you my impressions. I also think years have passed by and I guess the Tag DACs may be a bit outdated. I am sure someone with knowledge like Keith could confirm that. Last but not least, MC-700 is also very convenient: now I have less wires being used, everything but the sonos connected via HDMI and I can finally have all inputs: HTPC, Chromecast, Blu Ray player and SatDVR making good use of HDMI and well controlled via a Harmony remote. Regarding aspect and looks, definitely it's not as high-end as the TAG seemed but it does not seem cheap at all, actually it seems better than I was expecting, it's got a nice, well finished and robust black front with a great blue volume knob that can be dimmed and the power button turns orange while in standby mode. SO yes I'm really happy with my new Emotiva!!. Congratulations to all Emotiva Staff for making such a good device for such a good price!!  |
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nrde
Minor Hero
Posts: 62
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Post by nrde on Apr 26, 2017 18:48:20 GMT -5
Finally got my MC-700 today. Made the effort to re-arrange everything on my tv stand, took 2 hours but I managed to get rid of 5 meters of cabling.
HDMI lock seems to be somewhat hit and miss based on the very first tests. After "warm up" I felt it started to improve. Can't say for sure until I have used it more.
Sound is good, which is the main thing, unfortunately my power amp had died during the cable rumba so I can't use 5/7.1 for now, but even 3.0 sounded very good.
What are not as good as I would like:
- menu system works and looks like it's from the 80's, I hope I don't have to use it much
- I can't start emoq, when I press enter or hit the -> arrow I see just a quick glimpse of ...initia... or something like that, I guess it means initializing. I turned the unit off, connected the mic, turned the unit on, went to setup menu etc. Doesn't start emoq_calibrate. Did I miss something?
- Renaming the inputs is kind of pain, luckily I have to do it just once.
So far after using it for under an hour I'm tiny bit disappointed, mainly because I can't rule out I got a defective unit even after waiting for so long for it to arrive. The fw is the latest 2.90 and I guess I have heat sink also installed already. After getting my surround speakers back to working order and emoq run on all my speakers I'm most likely to be very happy.
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Post by jolaca on Apr 27, 2017 2:34:11 GMT -5
nrde, I know it seems a little obvious but, did you check your mic is firmly plugged??. I have heard this issue once and it was just a matter of the mic not being detected as connected.
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Also I am running a 7.1 system.
