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Post by AudioHTIT on Jun 13, 2019 22:45:51 GMT -5
Edit: 7/30/21 — Title changed to reflect the nature of the thread being to help people make their selection.I thought maybe we needed a ‘buyers’ or tire kickers thread, where we can discuss what we’re interested in and which unit might fit our needs. I decided to add a poll because, well, who doesn’t like a good poll, and I limited it to those interested in the products we currently know about from Emotiva. The poll is also open to current owners of those products, and ‘buy’ includes trade-ins and discounts. I also want to discuss what we’d like to see added in firmware (if possible), and which modules you might want or need for an RMC-1 — for reference I’ve included a link to Bonzo’s Expansion Module thread, and Keith’s comparison spreadsheet. And I assume there will eventually be used units so I account for that, but I’m not letting you choose more than one even though I myself might start with one and move to another. We also have to assume some of the firmware issues are going to be resolved soon. --Bruce ( AudioHTIT ) Which unit interests you, and why — and which modules would make you spend extra for an RMC-1?RMC-1/L, XMC-2 Owners ThreadRMC-1 Expansion Module threadProcessor Comparison SpreadsheetXMC-1 Trade in Page (can be used with any new processor)Added: Prices, Height/RU, and links to Product Pages and Owners Manuals.
Also the best front and rear photos I have for the RMC-1, RMC-1L, XMC-2, XMC-1 (now all official).RMC-1 Front (official) 4RU Height — $4999 MSRP RMC-1 Product PageRMC-1 Owners Manual RMC-1 Rear (official)  RMC-1L Front (Offical) 3RU Height — $3999 MSRP RMC-1L Product PageRMC-1L Owners Manual RMC-1L Rear (Official)  XMC-2 Front (official) 3RU Height — $2999 MSRP XMC-2 Product PageXMC-2 Owners Manual XMC-2 Rear (official)  XMC-1 Front (official / discontinued) 3RU Height —$2499 MSRP XMC-1 Product PageXMC-1 Owners Manual XMC-1 Rear (official) 
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Post by AudioHTIT on Jun 13, 2019 22:54:02 GMT -5
For now I enjoy my XMC-1, but I’d like to try Atmos and get an idea how far I want to go with it. The trade in program is also a pretty awesome deal, so I voted for an XMC-2, it should let me keep doing what I’m doing now, and add some Atmos. I have more thoughts, but that’s where I’ll start.
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Post by Jesse007 on Jun 13, 2019 23:15:26 GMT -5
I’m on the fence about upgrading my XMC-1. I’ve had no issues thus far with my V3 board. My current set up using my XSP1 in HT bypass mode for 2 Ch listening still puts a smile on my face EVERY time.
Conversely, I just watched Saving Private Ryan & Captain Marvel yesterday, and they looked and sounded superb. I am not sure how much of an improvement Atmos or DTS:X would be for me.
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Post by krauley on Jun 13, 2019 23:45:58 GMT -5
I would like to go the xmc-2 route also for the fact that i will recieve a new warranty, an option to do atmos if i desire later, dirac 2.0 should be coming to it and with the newer chips in the unit, a better processor overall. I am completely satisfied with my xmc-1 but for just another $650 i cant pass up the upgrade offer.
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Post by mick on Jun 13, 2019 23:55:33 GMT -5
There is no way no how i'm upgrading to any new processor until ALL the bugs are fixed.
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Post by Loop 7 on Jun 14, 2019 0:37:49 GMT -5
I admire any company who has to run this endless race to include the latest decoding technologies and certifications.
It seems like Emotiva has hit some bumps as they transition to essentially being a computer hardware and software company (yes, the latest processors are computers)
It's a big change.
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Post by creimes on Jun 14, 2019 0:55:57 GMT -5
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Post by foggy1956 on Jun 14, 2019 6:06:32 GMT -5
I felt the direction the RMC-1 owners thread was going was a bit of a distraction or disservice to the actual ‘owners’ looking for help, or trying to describe and exchange information about their units. So I thought maybe we needed a ‘buyers’ or tire kickers thread, where we can discuss what we’re interested in and which unit might fit our needs. I decided to add a poll because, well, who doesn’t like a good poll, and I limited it to those interested in the products we currently know about from Emotiva. The poll is also open to current owners of those products, and ‘buy’ includes trade-ins and discounts. I also want to discuss what we’d like to see added in firmware (if possible), and which modules you might want or need for an RMC-1 — for reference I’ve included a link to Bonzo’s Expansion Module thread, and Keith’s comparison spreadsheet. And I assume there will eventually be used units so I account for that, but I’m not letting you choose more than one even though I myself might start with one and move to another. We also have to assume some of the firmware issues are going to be resolved soon. RMC-1 Expansion Module threadProcessor Comparison SpreadsheetWhich unit interests you, and why — and which modules would make you spend extra for an RMC-1? XMC-2 but for the new dirac,new processors and warranty refresh. Atmos not so much at this time nor 4k, will stay with current tv hopefully until 8k goes mainstream. |
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Post by Gary Cook on Jun 14, 2019 6:36:49 GMT -5
I’m trading in my XMC-1 4K for an XMC-2, truly a no brainer really. I only need 5.1.2 for DTSX and I have an XSP-1 for 2.1 stereo, so all’s good in my world. Just waiting for the XMC-2 with DIRAC.
Cheers
Gary
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Post by davidl81 on Jun 14, 2019 8:02:51 GMT -5
I am interested in the RMC-1, but really only because all of the rave reviews about the SQ on the XMC-1 and if it is really going to be that much better than my AV8802a. I have posted before some of the things I wish the RMC-1 had, they include the following:
1) Phono input (add on module coming though)
2) Spotify connect or something equivalent. I use the AV8802a Z2/Z3 outputs for my patio and spotify connect works great. It makes my phone a controller and I really like spotify play mixes. I realize I could go with a roon player or use my appletv via airplay, so there are options that could work for me.
3) Z2 and Z3 outputs. That is just me being picky as I use both zones outdoors and I like to be able to adjust the volume independently for the zones, but it is really not a big deal at all.
4) Iphone App is a must. I understand the old XMC app works, so as long as no future firmware messed that up I should be okay.
Frankly the XMC-2 would do everything I need as I can't really ever see going past 9.1.6, but on my shelf my DR-2 and my XPA-5 flank my AV8802 and it bugs me that the AV8802 is shorter than the XPA amps. I just think the RMC-1 surrounded by two XPA amps would look sweet.
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Post by tchaik on Jun 14, 2019 10:28:34 GMT -5
the XMC-2 will do everything I need and I most likely would never hear the diff with surround sound between the the XMC-2 and the RMC-1L. yet, I like the connectors on the RMC-1L and the front face better. for that reason I will be getting (when available) the RMC-1L. pretty lame reason , isn't it......
tchaik.................
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KeithL
Administrator 
Posts: 10,270
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Post by KeithL on Jun 14, 2019 10:40:38 GMT -5
Whether you'll find Atmos or DTS:X a major step up is very much a matter of personal taste. Some people hear it once and decide they just can't live without it...
Others don't even find it interesting... And, to still others, it's "interesting, but not worth cutting more holes in the ceiling and running more wires".
My suggestion, if you're not sure, would be to actually go and watch a few movies at a local Atmos-enabled theater. Either you'll be bowled over by it... or you won't. (And seeing an actual movie is a better indicator that watching a single really cool five-minute demo clip.)
Remember that you will need more speakers and more amplifier channels. Also remember that it's going to sound different in a small room.
(Sometimes it's even hard to hear the difference between 5.1 and 7.1 in a small room.)
I’m on the fence about upgrading my XMC-1. I’ve had no issues thus far with my V3 board. My current set up using my XSP1 in HT bypass mode for 2 Ch listening still puts a smile on my face EVERY time. Conversely, I just watched Saving Private Ryan & Captain Marvel yesterday, and they looked and sounded superb. I am not sure how much of an improvement Atmos or DTS:X would be for me. |
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LCSeminole
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Res firma mitescere nescit.
Posts: 20,854
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Post by LCSeminole on Jun 14, 2019 10:44:17 GMT -5
the XMC-2 will do everything I need and I most likely would never hear the diff with surround sound between the the XMC-2 and the RMC-1L. yet, I like the connectors on the RMC-1L and the front face better. for that reason I will be getting (when available) the RMC-1L. pretty lame reason , isn't it...... tchaik................. No more lame than my reasoning! Which would be your two and the fact that it’s full differentially balanced, and mainly because I WANT IT !!!  |
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Post by AudioHTIT on Jun 14, 2019 11:25:57 GMT -5
Here are some of my further thoughts and ideas. Long term I’d really like an RMC-1, but the XMC-2 trade in (as Gary and others have put it) is a no brainer, the warranty refresh is a good point as well. But the RMC-1’s flagship nature, expansion slots, and good looks all appeal to me (no one should apologize for cosmetics or size influencing their decision); if it had come out of the blocks a bit stronger I might already have one. I’ll have more thoughts on expansion, but what I’d really like to see shouldn’t have needed anything extra (though it may not be possible now). Like some of you I have both a home theatre and a two channel system; separate amps and speakers for each, but they share subs and sources, and occupy the same space. I also use my XMC-1 as a ‘prepro’ for both systems and would want to do the same with any future processor. Currently I handle switching between the systems using Y cables and triggers to turn amps on and off based on inputs, it works fine, but I’d like to do more. What I’d like, is to actively bi-amp my Magnepans, without external crossovers. My immersive audio plans may end at 7.2.2 (though I have plenty of room). With any of the processors we’re discussing that means 5 unused channels. What I’d like to see is the ability to assign any channel to any function; in my case that could mean channels 1-7 are for traditional surround (as they are now), 8-9 are subs (same), and 10-11 become my Atmos/DTS:X channels. What about the other 5 channels? Well, to do what I want we need another new feature, or possibly a modification of the speaker presets, I’d want to add an assignable high pass and low pass filter for each channel. So channels 12-13 become additional left front channels, 12 with a low pass filter on and 13 with high pass switched in, 14-15 the same for the right front channel. Being able to switch in either or both the high and low pass filters would allow you to both bi-amp or tri-amp (by creating a bandpass filter). The bass freaks would probably balk, but some could even use a very low freq high pass filter to remove sub-sonics, possibly when playing vinyl (anyone remember the old ‘rumble’ filters?) Of course the actual numbering is unimportant, but demonstrates flexibility. With these ‘features’ — flexible channel assignment, and HP / LP filters — I might not need any modules, but I suspect it’s either not possible or would require a lot of work and be a low priority (though of course I think they’re very useful and cool features). They also could be used by those who don’t have a separate two channel system, but want to actively bi-amp their fronts. Oh, what about channel 16 you ask? A VOG speaker and karaoke mic of course!  or maybe to announce the next film and it’s stars in a Robert Osborne voice. |
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Post by cwt on Jun 14, 2019 13:27:42 GMT -5
the XMC-2 will do everything I need and I most likely would never hear the diff with surround sound between the the XMC-2 and the RMC-1L. yet, I like the connectors on the RMC-1L and the front face better. for that reason I will be getting (when available) the RMC-1L. pretty lame reason , isn't it...... tchaik................. Its knowing that the RMC1L will likely have better THD+noise specs ; better S/N ratios thanks to the common mode noise reduction of the dual diff circuitry. Basically no second guessing yourself what you have bought is 2nd best 'any "what ifs"  Personally If the rmc1l gets dirac v2.0 with the top tier of the bass management and is in line for dirac unison eventually to utilise all those channels Ime a happy little vegemite [aus slang  ] Ime also assuming the dacs analogue stages will be a cut above even though the dacs are the same AKM'S to complement the dual mono mode  Too many comments on the sound quality of the RMC1 also to forgo for an unknown quantity at this point in time.. |
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Post by overtheair on Jun 14, 2019 18:00:24 GMT -5
I voted for new XMC-2, given the options, but really I only need (want?) 7.1.4 and arguably 5.1.4 would probably be fine for my room per Keith's observation. I know my limitations, or more specifically that of my ears, especially for video-based multi-channel listening. A good film will pull me in, unless the audio reproduction is truly appalling, and excellent audio won't save a bad one. I had hoped that Emotiva would have had a 7.1.4 Dirac product at an appropriate price point, i.e. circa $1,500 or lower, by the time I plan to buy in the Fall, but that seems unlikely now so its probably a decision between XMC-2 and NAD T758 V3 used as a pre-pro since the latter meets all that I need.
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Post by Gary Cook on Jun 14, 2019 18:19:02 GMT -5
Whether you'll find Atmos or DTS:X a major step up is very much a matter of personal taste. Some people hear it once and decide they just can't live without it...
Others don't even find it interesting... And, to still others, it's "interesting, but not worth cutting more holes in the ceiling and running more wires".
My suggestion, if you're not sure, would be to actually go and watch a few movies at a local Atmos-enabled theater. Either you'll be bowled over by it... or you won't. (And seeing an actual movie is a better indicator that watching a single really cool five-minute demo clip.)
Remember that you will need more speakers and more amplifier channels. Also remember that it's going to sound different in a small room.
(Sometimes it's even hard to hear the difference between 5.1 and 7.1 in a small room.)
I actually found the theatre (30+ speakers/channels) not a good indicator of what it would be like in my room (5.1.2), the experiences were just too different. To carry out an experiment in my room was the best decision and gave me the impetus to actually follow through. I have a spare couple of XPA-5 amp channels and KEF speakers that I use for Zone 2 on the verandah. So testing 5.1.2 was relatively simple, I also have a couple of sets of Airmotiv powered speakers (4 & 6’s) so I could try 7.1.4 almost as easily. The trick was getting the speakers overhead, so I used a couple of pairs of elevated speaker stands that I borrowed from my friendly local pro audio shop. If I had rented them it was $20 each for a weekend, so not a big expense. They extend to 4 metres so plenty of height and since it was temporary I just placed them with the speakers firing downwards, roughly where they will go in the permanent installation. Wiring I just ran across the floor, pretty untidy, and the boss gave me some weird looks (what the hell are you doing!?). I set it up on Saturday morning and left it until Sunday afternoon, watched a couple of movies and a few demos. Enough to convince me that it was a no brainer. I was lucky that a good friend of mine was going away for the weekend so I borrowed his DTSX capable Yamaha CX-A5100 processor, which continues to surprise me with its sound quality (Sabre DAC’s, who would have thought). So for anyone who buys an RMC-1, RMC-1L or XMC-2 and you’re not sure about going the 3D sound route, I’d strongly recommend having a test session before you decide. Sure it’s a bit of a fiddle, but it will make your mind up one way or the other, for certain. So you won’t have this lingering doubt, should I or shouldn’t I. Cheers Gary |
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klinemj
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Official Emofest Scribe
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Post by klinemj on Jun 14, 2019 19:03:46 GMT -5
I am interested in the XMC-2, pending knowing what Dirac version it will have and seeing it sufficiently bug-free. I will not be an early adopter.
Mark
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Post by krauley on Jun 14, 2019 19:31:34 GMT -5
the XMC-2 will do everything I need and I most likely would never hear the diff with surround sound between the the XMC-2 and the RMC-1L. yet, I like the connectors on the RMC-1L and the front face better. for that reason I will be getting (when available) the RMC-1L. pretty lame reason , isn't it...... tchaik................. No more lame than my reasoning! Which would be your two and the fact that it’s full differentially balanced, and mainly because I WANT IT !!! that has more buying power than anything ever! |
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Post by petew on Jun 14, 2019 20:11:51 GMT -5
RMC-1L for me with a lot of "if's"
I want 7.4.4 with full bass management.
I want to biamp my center channel with active crossover.
That uses up all sixteen channels.
I'd go RMC-1L over XMC-2 simply because of my UFL status and I do like the cosmetics better. No need for fully differential topology at this point since my amps are not differential.
I don't care about slow HDMI switching
I want a snappy user interface
I do care about pops, squeaks, screeches, etc. Unacceptable.
Needs instant switching between different audio formats (dd 5.1 to dd 2.0, for example) and dropouts at the beginning of songs are unacceptable.
I need reliable HDMI switching. Need to work every time - no blank screens, no dropped audio.
I don't care about onboard streaming. I am happy with Sonos for multi zone audio and will use the onboard usb DAC for critical listening.
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or maybe to announce the next film and it’s stars in a Robert Osborne voice. 
Personally If the rmc1l gets dirac v2.0 with the top tier of 
]
Too many comments on the sound quality of the RMC1 also to forgo for an unknown quantity at this point in time..
