traut
Seeker Of Truth
Posts: 4
|
Post by traut on Jun 26, 2020 16:41:50 GMT -5
Hello everybody! Although I have a few Emotiva products, I believe this is my first post here. I've been searching these boards over the past week or so, trying to decide if a good stereo preamp will elevate the musical side of my hybrid music / HT system. Based on most of what I've read, it appears that it could. My budget is up to $600, but I don't mind spending less, of course.  My current configuration:Sources: vintage Systemdek IIx turntable, Oppo BDP-83, Logitech Squeezebox Touch, and an Amazon FireTV stick Pre/Pro: Emo UMC-1 Amps/Speakers: Emo XPA-2 driving Vandersteen 3A Signature; Adcom GFA-2 driving Dayton Audio B652 (rears); no center channel; Emo Airmotiv S15 For music, I've been gravitating more and more to vinyl lately. This is part of the reason I'm considering a 2 ch pre, but I may also upgrade the TT sometime soon. At a minimum, I'll probably get a new cartridge and stylus. I definitely want bass management so that I can incorporate the S15. From what I've found so far, there aren't a lot of options available that incorporate the sub, outside of the Emotiva pres. So there is the USP-1 and the XSP-1. For my set up, is the ~2-3x greater cost (used) for the XSP worth it over the USP? I am thinking it is because it appears that the XSP has some features that allow it to be better integrated with the pre/pro. Parasound P5 may also be a good option, but it seems much harder to find a used unit. I also read where Emotiva recommended using the XMC-1 along with an XPS-1 for 2 channel duties. This would obviously cost a bit more but it would allow me to sell the UMC-1 to help finance it. I don't watch a whole lot of blurays though, so the advanced abilities of that processor may not be worth the extra cost. Most of the video we watch is through the FireTV stick, so Dolby Digital, DTS, and their plus versions are more than adequate. The listening area isn't conducive to a bunch of surrounds either, so I will remain 4.1 (no CC) configuration for the foreseeable future. After typing all of this, it just doesn't make much sense to go this route unless there's a strong consensus that the combo can stand up musically to one of the dedicated 2 ch pres. Sorry if I'm asking any stupid questions, but I don't have any experience using a separate 2 ch pre, so I'm still feeling a little dazed and confused even after reading through a lot of great discussions on this board and a couple of others. I also apologize for the stream of consciousness format of the post and I appreciate any guidance that is provided! |
|
|
|
Post by creimes on Jun 26, 2020 17:17:47 GMT -5
Hey man, welcome aboard
For what it's worth i owned both the XSP-1 and XMC-1 at the same time, I ennded up selling the XSP-1 as I couldn't discern enough or any of a difference for that matter for 2ch use, if you could sell the UMC-1 and step up to one of the trade in XMC-1's from Emotiva that would be an excellent move IMO, there are also some used XSP-1's kicking around from time to time as well if adding that could accommodate what you need, but I will say the XMC-1 alone or especially with Dirac will have a more intuitive bass management.
Chad
|
|
traut
Seeker Of Truth
Posts: 4
|
Post by traut on Jun 26, 2020 18:26:38 GMT -5
Hey man, welcome aboard ...I ennded up selling the XSP-1 as I couldn't discern enough or any of a difference for that matter for 2ch use... but I will say the XMC-1 alone or especially with Dirac will have a more intuitive bass management. Thanks Chad... Do you have any analog sources and do you use the "Direct" mode while playing those through the XMC-1? I definitely notice a big difference on the UMC-1 when I toggle back and forth between "Stereo" and "Direct" while playing vinyl. Unfortunately, the UMC-1 can't send a signal to my sub with Direct, so I can't make use of that beastly sub that I have. One thing that interests me in the U/XSP-1 is that you can tie in a sub w/out any digital processing. |
|
|
|
Post by creimes on Jun 26, 2020 19:32:51 GMT -5
Hey man, welcome aboard ...I ennded up selling the XSP-1 as I couldn't discern enough or any of a difference for that matter for 2ch use... but I will say the XMC-1 alone or especially with Dirac will have a more intuitive bass management. Thanks Chad... Do you have any analog sources and do you use the "Direct" mode while playing those through the XMC-1? I definitely notice a big difference on the UMC-1 when I toggle back and forth between "Stereo" and "Direct" while playing vinyl. Unfortunately, the UMC-1 can't send a signal to my sub with Direct, so I can't make use of that beastly sub that I have. One thing that interests me in the U/XSP-1 is that you can tie in a sub w/out any digital processing. I use mostly "Reference Stereo" on the XMC-1 which is the purest signal through, there is also Direct which on the XMC-1 does allow bass management but not Dirac room correction processing. I do have a U-Turn Orbit turntable that is connected to the XMC-1 through the Emotiva phono pre the XPS-1 and it sounds great. Chad |
|
|
|
Post by garbulky on Jun 26, 2020 20:18:33 GMT -5
The clearest stereo preamp solution I can think of is the Emotiva DC-1 coupled to the XSP-1 (or the SP-1 if you have more than one analog source). The DC-1 however does not have bass management. But you can certainly do bass management because it has two sets of outputs. Your speakers however will run full range and the bass comes in from underneath. So if you are okay with that, I think that would be a fantastic solution. If you need the bass management a used XSP-1 is slightly less clear but still sounds amazing. The XSP-1 does have a bit better "impact" sensation. Both are better than the UMC-1 you are using though you may not hear a difference due to your room setup or speaker quality.
|
|
traut
Seeker Of Truth
Posts: 4
|
Post by traut on Jun 28, 2020 7:52:11 GMT -5
The DC-1 however does not have bass management. But you can certainly do bass management because it has two sets of outputs. Your speakers however will run full range and the bass comes in from underneath. So if you are okay with that, I think that would be a fantastic solution. Correct me if I’m wrong but if I were to wire it up this way I’d lose the “.1” signal from DD and DTS sources, is that right? |
|
|
|
Post by garbulky on Jun 28, 2020 15:32:31 GMT -5
The DC-1 however does not have bass management. But you can certainly do bass management because it has two sets of outputs. Your speakers however will run full range and the bass comes in from underneath. So if you are okay with that, I think that would be a fantastic solution. Correct me if I’m wrong but if I were to wire it up this way I’d lose the “.1” signal from DD and DTS sources, is that right? Yes. |
|
|
|
Post by leonski on Jul 28, 2020 1:24:10 GMT -5
Hello everybody! Although I have a few Emotiva products, I believe this is my first post here. I've been searching these boards over the past week or so, trying to decide if a good stereo preamp will elevate the musical side of my hybrid music / HT system. Based on most of what I've read, it appears that it could. My budget is up to $600, but I don't mind spending less, of course. My current configuration:Sources: vintage Systemdek IIx turntable, Oppo BDP-83, Logitech Squeezebox Touch, and an Amazon FireTV stick Pre/Pro: Emo UMC-1 Amps/Speakers: Emo XPA-2 driving Vandersteen 3A Signature; Adcom GFA-2 driving Dayton Audio B652 (rears); no center channel; Emo Airmotiv S15 For music, I've been gravitating more and more to vinyl lately. This is part of the reason I'm considering a 2 ch pre, but I may also upgrade the TT sometime soon. At a minimum, I'll probably get a new cartridge and stylus. I definitely want bass management so that I can incorporate the S15. From what I've found so far, there aren't a lot of options available that incorporate the sub, outside of the Emotiva pres. So there is the USP-1 and the XSP-1. For my set up, is the ~2-3x greater cost (used) for the XSP worth it over the USP? I am thinking it is because it appears that the XSP has some features that allow it to be better integrated with the pre/pro. Parasound P5 may also be a good option, but it seems much harder to find a used unit. I also read where Emotiva recommended using the XMC-1 along with an XPS-1 for 2 channel duties. This would obviously cost a bit more but it would allow me to sell the UMC-1 to help finance it. I don't watch a whole lot of blurays though, so the advanced abilities of that processor may not be worth the extra cost. Most of the video we watch is through the FireTV stick, so Dolby Digital, DTS, and their plus versions are more than adequate. The listening area isn't conducive to a bunch of surrounds either, so I will remain 4.1 (no CC) configuration for the foreseeable future. After typing all of this, it just doesn't make much sense to go this route unless there's a strong consensus that the combo can stand up musically to one of the dedicated 2 ch pres. Sorry if I'm asking any stupid questions, but I don't have any experience using a separate 2 ch pre, so I'm still feeling a little dazed and confused even after reading through a lot of great discussions on this board and a couple of others. I also apologize for the stream of consciousness format of the post and I appreciate any guidance that is provided! I know I'm Way Late but I'd agree with the P5 which I have. VERY flexible bass management. IF the sub has a crossover? Set the sub out on the P5 to 'full range' and use the subs crossover. The P5 is only a 12db / octave slope while the sub is more 'brick wall' at 24db octave, typically. I use the outputs for the mains set for about 40hz to 50hz low cut. That way I don't use the bottom octave of the speakers output. I now basically have a 3-way system... The newer P6 is supposed to have a better DAC and it does have a small display. But I find the P5 to be fine, I don't miss a display and the DAC section is fine for TV and 'small dish' radio. |
|
|
|
Post by metaldaze on Jul 29, 2020 11:12:16 GMT -5
Hello everybody! Although I have a few Emotiva products, I believe this is my first post here. I've been searching these boards over the past week or so, trying to decide if a good stereo preamp will elevate the musical side of my hybrid music / HT system. Based on most of what I've read, it appears that it could. My budget is up to $600, but I don't mind spending less, of course. My current configuration:Sources: vintage Systemdek IIx turntable, Oppo BDP-83, Logitech Squeezebox Touch, and an Amazon FireTV stick Pre/Pro: Emo UMC-1 Amps/Speakers: Emo XPA-2 driving Vandersteen 3A Signature; Adcom GFA-2 driving Dayton Audio B652 (rears); no center channel; Emo Airmotiv S15 For music, I've been gravitating more and more to vinyl lately. This is part of the reason I'm considering a 2 ch pre, but I may also upgrade the TT sometime soon. At a minimum, I'll probably get a new cartridge and stylus. I definitely want bass management so that I can incorporate the S15. From what I've found so far, there aren't a lot of options available that incorporate the sub, outside of the Emotiva pres. So there is the USP-1 and the XSP-1. For my set up, is the ~2-3x greater cost (used) for the XSP worth it over the USP? I am thinking it is because it appears that the XSP has some features that allow it to be better integrated with the pre/pro. Parasound P5 may also be a good option, but it seems much harder to find a used unit. I also read where Emotiva recommended using the XMC-1 along with an XPS-1 for 2 channel duties. This would obviously cost a bit more but it would allow me to sell the UMC-1 to help finance it. I don't watch a whole lot of blurays though, so the advanced abilities of that processor may not be worth the extra cost. Most of the video we watch is through the FireTV stick, so Dolby Digital, DTS, and their plus versions are more than adequate. The listening area isn't conducive to a bunch of surrounds either, so I will remain 4.1 (no CC) configuration for the foreseeable future. After typing all of this, it just doesn't make much sense to go this route unless there's a strong consensus that the combo can stand up musically to one of the dedicated 2 ch pres. Sorry if I'm asking any stupid questions, but I don't have any experience using a separate 2 ch pre, so I'm still feeling a little dazed and confused even after reading through a lot of great discussions on this board and a couple of others. I also apologize for the stream of consciousness format of the post and I appreciate any guidance that is provided! I know I'm Way Late but I'd agree with the P5 which I have. VERY flexible bass management. IF the sub has a crossover? Set the sub out on the P5 to 'full range' and use the subs crossover. The P5 is only a 12db / octave slope while the sub is more 'brick wall' at 24db octave, typically. I use the outputs for the mains set for about 40hz to 50hz low cut. That way I don't use the bottom octave of the speakers output. I now basically have a 3-way system... The newer P6 is supposed to have a better DAC and it does have a small display. But I find the P5 to be fine, I don't miss a display and the DAC section is fine for TV and 'small dish' radio. I'm also 2x late but I agree with leonski. I picked up a gently used but perfect condition P5 and its everything I wanted and needed. I was able to get it on a well known website for under what your budget is. Just over including tax and shipping. Be aware though, in my system when I added the P5 driving my XPA amp into my Ohm Acoustics speakers - the sound was.. very much NOT what I wanted. It certainly made the biggest change, but not for the better. Hence I bit the bullet and got an A21+ from AudioAdvisor. Once I hooked up and broke in the new amp, my system sings so sweetly it makes my eyes water. The XPA has since been relegated to TV, HT and gaming for the center and surrounds. YMMV but I hope this helps. Good luck! |
|
traut
Seeker Of Truth
Posts: 4
|
Post by traut on Jul 29, 2020 14:41:31 GMT -5
Hey guys, thanks for chiming in! You were actually just a little bit too late as I purchased a used USP-1 a couple of weeks from a gentleman ( mathwizard ) on this very same forum. I am very happy with the new piece of gear and am becoming reacquainted with all of my favorite albums and songs. The detail and dyanamics that have been enhanced by integrating the pre-amp have made my jaw hurt a bit from the constant smiling and perhaps from hitting the floor after it dropped a couple of times early into my first few listening sessions  I may keep my ear to the ground and if I come across an incredible deal on a P5, P6, or XSP-1 gen 2 I may jump on it so I can compare the performance vs the entry level USP. If there's a noticeable difference the USP will either be resold or moved to the secondary system. Thank you again to all who offered their opinions and experience to this thread! RT |
|
|
|
Post by Jean Genie on Jul 29, 2020 15:09:30 GMT -5
That USP-1 is sooo under rated by folks 'round here, I just don't understand it.😕
Enjoy your 'new' toys!
|
|
|
|
Post by cheddar on Aug 2, 2020 23:17:26 GMT -5
Most likely any improvement you are experiencing is a placebo effect.
|
|
|
|
Post by vcautokid on Aug 3, 2020 3:11:14 GMT -5
Okay let's not leave anything on the table here. You have two amplifers and 4 speakers. You are going to want to take advantage of all of those at least some of the time. Get a XMC-1 used. (Yeah budget, I know, more options further. ) Firstly the Stereo channels are Full Differential balanced just like the XSP-1 is. You get 4K UHD passthrough to give some flexibility in HDMI source switching. Takes nothing to add any Phono stage you want. It sounds great. It is your one stop shop without leaving anything out. A two channel only solution strands your Adcom and other speakers. There are other pre pro solutions sure. If you do all your HDMI switching from the TV and run Optical out from your TV if so equipped, your options are even wider. If the TrueHD and other decoding mean nothing to you, get a legacy Preamplifier Processor. The UMC-1 is a good Preamplifier Processor but is definitely showing its age and limitations. You could get a slightly newer Processor Preamplifier out there used and still beat the UMC-1 handily. Depending on what is important to you, not us by the way. You could really get what you want. Suggestions are great, but in the end it is your money and choice. Keep your options open. It is really easy to be myopic here in audio because we are comfortable. But trying new things is part of the fun. Seriously do not consider a two channel option only. You want the flexibility. The Adcom and other speakers. They are paid for and always ready to enjoy. I am not beholden to any one manufacturer if the solution I want makes sense, sounds great, and has high value beyond even monetary. There is a rule I follow these days as a modification to to buy it right the first time. It is buy nice, or buy it twice.
|
|
