Would like to try Dirac and have been eyeballing the XMC-1 for a few years. I've been reading mostly overwhelmingly positive reviews for the XMC-1. Would seem, to me, to be the best $2000-ish pre-pro on the market. However, I have seen a few negative comments about random bugs, clicks/pops from Dirac when sources change, issues with first second or so of streamed music cutting off, and issues with dual subwoofer integration.
So, before I dive in I'd like to hear feedback from XMC-1 owners and former owners to be sure this is the best choice for my needs.
My system currently is 7.2 with an Emotiva A-700 amp for the 7 speakers and a Behringer EP4000 powering dual DIY subs. I have no plan to upgrade/add channels beyond my current setup (e.g., Atmos or other "immersive" audio systems) nor is 4k video a consideration (will make that upgrade eventually, but probably 5+ years away). I'm looking for low noise floor, clean audio, customizable EQ, and good subwoofer integration. I currently have Anthem's MRX 710 and ARC's sub integration is phenomenal though has a only single sub output. I would love to have a good dynamic EQ/loudness implementation similar to Audyssey's, but that seems to be wishful thinking.
How does the XMC-1 stack up to other pre-pro's in it's price range? Any better options?
Is Dirac much better than ARC-2 (which, IMO, is much better than Audyssey XT32)?
Has anyone foregone Dirac in favor of the XMC-1's parametric EQ, which on paper seems to be fantastic?
How well does the Loudness function work? I've seen several reviewer's calling it "unusable" with too much low end emphasis.
How low is noise floor? I bought an Emo XPA-3 a few years ago but sold it because of hiss with my Klipsch Reference set. The A-700 is quiet, but the Anthem has some noise in the preamp stage that makes it unuseabe for me with the A-700.
What are the current bugs/issues? Are these minor annoyances or real dealbreakers?
How is the Android remote app?
Looking forward to everyone's input!
Thanks,
sga2
So, before I dive in I'd like to hear feedback from XMC-1 owners and former owners to be sure this is the best choice for my needs.
My system currently is 7.2 with an Emotiva A-700 amp for the 7 speakers and a Behringer EP4000 powering dual DIY subs. I have no plan to upgrade/add channels beyond my current setup (e.g., Atmos or other "immersive" audio systems) nor is 4k video a consideration (will make that upgrade eventually, but probably 5+ years away). I'm looking for low noise floor, clean audio, customizable EQ, and good subwoofer integration. I currently have Anthem's MRX 710 and ARC's sub integration is phenomenal though has a only single sub output. I would love to have a good dynamic EQ/loudness implementation similar to Audyssey's, but that seems to be wishful thinking.
How does the XMC-1 stack up to other pre-pro's in it's price range? Any better options?
Is Dirac much better than ARC-2 (which, IMO, is much better than Audyssey XT32)?
Has anyone foregone Dirac in favor of the XMC-1's parametric EQ, which on paper seems to be fantastic?
How well does the Loudness function work? I've seen several reviewer's calling it "unusable" with too much low end emphasis.
How low is noise floor? I bought an Emo XPA-3 a few years ago but sold it because of hiss with my Klipsch Reference set. The A-700 is quiet, but the Anthem has some noise in the preamp stage that makes it unuseabe for me with the A-700.
What are the current bugs/issues? Are these minor annoyances or real dealbreakers?
How is the Android remote app?
Looking forward to everyone's input!
Thanks,
sga2