Holy Grail of processors

[Iguana Man]

Welcome to my nightmare
I think you're gonna like it
I think you're gonna feel like you belong
A nocturnal vacation
Unnecessary sedation
You want to feel at home 'cause you belong

Welcome to my nightmare
Welcome to my breakdown
I hope I didn't scare you
That's just the way we are when we come down
We sweat and laugh and scream here
'cuz life is just a dream here
You know inside you feel right at home here

Welcome to my breakdown
Whoa
You're welcome to my nightmare
Yeah

Welcome to my nightmare
I think you're gonna like it
I think you're gonna feel that you belong
We sweat laugh and scream here
'cuz life is just a dream here
You know inside you feel right at home here
Welcome to my nightmare
Welcome to my breakdown
Yeah

[Wirehed]

I hope one of my local high end shops gets this in. I like the wiz bang bells and whistles, but I'm not willing to pay extra for it, I mean over what a comparable high end processor/amp costs.
I've been in the market for about a year now, and I still haven't found exactly what I'm looking for.

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by piratehunter

Thanks for the info. I guess I just need to hear an amp of this caliber to form my own opinion. I heard a $2K Denon in a showroom last year playing a scene from Attack of the Clones. It sounded very good of course, but I thought my $1200 Pioneer sounded better (and that was with my Technics fronts!)

If I heard a receiver replicate actual cinema sound, I’d get a second job.

While really good receivers and especially flagship receivers sound simply amazing with movie soundtracks, it's with 2 channel music where they just can't compete with a state of the art pre-amp/ processor. Stand alone processors will really blow you away when listening to music.

So if all you want is killer sound from movie soundtracks, a really good top end receiver should do quite nicely. But if you want the absolute best from both worlds, you really can't beat quality separates.

I'm a 50% music, 50% movie person, so for me I want the best for both. This is why I "really" want this new Denon.


Seth

[Wirehed]

Originally Posted by zepherman

I'm a 50% music, 50% movie person, so for me I want the best for both. This is why I "really" want this new Denon.


Seth

How do you know that? You haven't heard it yet.

I like Denon electronics, don't get me wrong, but their recievers have always sounded a bit 'bright' to me, how do you know this is going to be better than other high end processors?

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by Seamonkey

How do you know that? You haven't heard it yet.

I like Denon electronics, don't get me wrong, but their receivers have always sounded a bit 'bright' to me, how do you know this is going to be better than other high end processors?

Well, you're right, I don't know 100% that this new Denon is going to sound as amazing as I "think" it's going to. It hasn't even reached U.S. shores yet, so I give you that one. But with my previous experiences with Denon's high end separates and their flagship receivers, they never disappointed me with their sonic attributes. And I have used Denon gear with my Martin Logan's and I was very impressed with the sound. It never sounded harsh or bright in my setup.

Now I have also used a flagship receiver from another Japanese company (Onkyo), and that one did sound bright. I thought that maybe if I went with their high end division (Integra Research) that it would sound not as bright. So I bought the company's RDC-7 pre-amp/processor. But just like it's receiver counterpart it also was bright.

But this also had a lot to do with the way the Onkyo systems interacted with my Martin Logans and the amplifiers I use. I have a friend with Legacy Audio speakers and owned the Integra Research and he loved the sound. So not all components sound good in all systems.

Since I have used Denon gear, and know that they sound great with my Logan's, is why I feel so positive that this new pre/processor will be awesome!


Seth

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by EM3

It's looks like a tank. How much does it weigh in at?

Just found out how much this thing weighs. A hefty 60 lbs.

[Pirate]

Zeph (may I call you Zeph? ),

Which brands are currently making affordable separates? Are there any in the $1k range for both components? Or, at the price, is it better to stick with a flagship AVR?

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by piratehunter

Zeph (may I call you Zeph? ),

Which brands are currently making affordable separates? Are there any in the $1k range for both components? Or, at the price, is it better to stick with a flagship AVR?

Sure, call me Zeph that's cool

Actually there are some high quality affordable seaparates available. But "affordable" in the separates realm is like $1,000 for a Pre/Processor and $1,500 for a 5 channel amp. $2,500 in the real world of things is still a chunk of change.

Even at this lower priced side of separates, one will still get an improvement in sound quality for music listening. But for whiz bang movie soundtracks in this price range, it will be hard to beat what a receiver can do. So I would say get the most full featured receiver you can afford. And most likely it will have decoding for at least Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and of course regular Dolby Digital/EX and DTS/ES. And some mid line receivers are THX Select certified as well.

Be sure to get one that has HDMI 1.3



Seth

[Ruined]

I dunno, I don't think I'd pay $7k for a Denon. In that price range might as well go with a Lexicon.

Also, its worth noting that Onkyo's flagship receiver coming out for $1899 this fall has most of the features of this denon, and apparently has completely seperate circuitry for amp/preamp.

[Pirate]

Originally Posted by zepherman

And some mid line receivers are THX Select certified as well.

I've got the THX Select Pioneer ELITE 52TX, but it has no HDMI since it's a few years old.

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by piratehunter

I've got the THX Select Pioneer ELITE 52TX, but it has no HDMI since it's a few years old.

Definitely gotta get them HDMI 1.3 ins If you are happy with Pioneer and the way it sounds for you, I'd stick with their receivers. Like the old saying goes, "if it ain't broke don't fix it".


Seth

[Pirate]

Yeah, the Pioneer has been wonderful. They're not yet making 1.3 models, but I may get one of those 1.2 passthrough ones until they start selling their new AVRs.

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by Ruined

I dunno, I don't think I'd pay $7k for a Denon. In that price range might as well go with a Lexicon.

Also, its worth noting that Onkyo's flagship receiver coming out for $1899 this fall has most of the features of this Denon, and apparently has completely separate circuitry for amp/preamp.

I omitted Lexicon from my choices for 2 reasons. 1.)I have carefully listened to their pre/processors (even the MC12B), and I did not like the way it sounded with Martin Logan's. The sound was a tad too bright for my taste. 2.) Even the MC12B doesn't offer all the goodies that the Denon AVP-HDA1 does. And the company doesn't even make mention of a new pre/pro that will offer HDMI 1.3a switching, Dolby TrueHD. Dolby Digital Plus, DTS HD/MA.

My first choice in pre/pro's was Classe' with their SSP-600 Delta series model. But even that one is behind the curve when compared to the Denon. But the Classe' has to be the sexiest pre/pro I've seen. Too bad it doesn't do HDMI 1.3a and decoding for all the new codecs. If it did I would be getting it. And since they just released the SSP-600 a little over a year ago, I don't see them coming out with a new model to replace this one until at least next year sometime.

Even ultra high end companies like Theta and Meridian don't offer decoding for the new codecs. Heck they don't even offer HDMI switching, let alone 1.3a. And for their selling prices of $14k-$18k they should!

Re Onkyo, I am very familiar with their flagship receiver lines. I used Onkyo exclusively for a number of years when I had Paradigm speakers. Onkyo is a match made in heaven for Paradigm's. But for electrostatic speakers like Martin Logan, it's a very bad combination. The sound is way too bright. I even tried a pre/pro from Onkyo's high end division (Integra Research RDC-7), and that didn't go with my Logan's either. So while I hold Onkyo products in high esteem, for the current system I have now it just won't do.

So for everything that the Denon will do, it's going to be hard to beat.


Seth

[zepherman]

Some more pix to drool over. And it will be available in black here in the US!

[zepherman]

Remote control

[zepherman]

Both units in black.

[zepherman]

Well it looks like even though Denon's Blu-ray player is going to be delayed until Spring '08, their advanced AV controller will be available by years end. And pricing has officially been announced at $7,000. So it looks like I won't have to wait till next year after all.

Here's the whole scoop on this AV controller from CEDIA in Denver:

Denon AVP-A1HDCI AV Processor


Scheduled for delivery this Fall, the AVP-A1HDC1 is engineered from the ground up to provide the ultimate in audio and video performance, as well as to meet the demands of Denon’s valued custom integration customers, including the growing need for advanced multi-zone networking capabilities. The introduction of this processor and matching 10 CH amplifier (Denon POA-A1HDCI) marks the debut of a new family of high-performance custom-focused components.

Jeff Talmadge, Director, Product Development and Systems Integration noted, “We’ve had many requests from our enthusiast customers to get back into this market, which we have not focused on in over 10 years. After talking to many of our customers, we determined that these two products we’re introducing are what people want most from Denon. We’ve combined the advanced functionality of our ultimate-quality components with advanced multi-zone and networking capabilities. Our goal is to bring dedicated home entertainment aficionados the upscale solutions they need to enjoy ultimate-quality audio and video performance, and to give custom integrators new ways to meet the demands of their discriminating clientele.”

AVP-A1HDCI – Powerful Audio/Video Controller Processor with Silicon Optix Realta Chipset
Following its success in Denon’s renowned DVD players, Denon has added the advanced Silicon Optix Realta chipset to its new AVP-A1HDCI, enabling enhanced video performance with upconversion and scaling to 1080p from all analog and digital sources, including the ability to use Realta Noise Reduction circuitry for 1080p input signals. This powerful chipset is just one of many advanced features that make the reference-quality AVP-A1HDCI one of the world’s most advanced audio/video controllers.

The AVP-A1HDCI features six HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs and also includes built-in Ethernet and Wi-Fi 802.11b/g connectivity. Both network protocols allow custom integrators the ability to diagnose, correct, update and remotely perform maintenance on the units without the need to travel to their customer’s home. The SimplayHD certified AVP-A1HDCI also features DLNA and Windows Vista certification, and allows users to stream multimedia content from network attached devices including computers and the popular iTunes software as well as media servers and network attached storage devices.

Other CI dedicated-features include RS-232 and assignable high current DC trigger outputs, Audyssey MultEQ XT Auto Setup and Calibration, and the ability to use the Audyssey Pro installer package, which measures ideal sonic performance in up to 32 different positions, allowing installers to define the ultimate sound quality for virtually any size or shape room.

The AVP-A1HDCI is a multiple source/multiple zone controller processor, capable of up to four zones and providing digital output to Zone 2. Users enjoy discrete command, source select, volume, power and more in each zone. In addition, three discrete and independent tuners; AM/FM, XM satellite radio ready (subscription required) and HD Radio provide for multi-zone distribution with high quality playback and support of multicasting from HD Radio.

The AVP-A1HDCI features the company’s newly designed Graphical User Interface (GUI) that makes accessing all the advanced features simpler and more intuitive than ever.

Enhanced Music Performance from Multiple Sources
For those users who enjoy streaming music via Ethernet / Wi-Fi or listening to their MP3 player via an iPod dock or USB flash drive/HDD, the AVP-A1HDCI features a compressed audio restorer that enhances music files that may be lacking in quality.

MSRP: $7,000, shipping Fall 2007

[zepherman]

The pre/pro is scheduled for release the third week of February. I just had my dealer pre-order one for me. So if all goes as planned I should be enjoying full blown TrueHD and DTS-HD MA in a little over a month. Just wanted to share the good new with you guys!


Seth

[zepherman]

new photos of the pre/pro and 10 channel amp.

[PunkMunkey]

Those pics are boner inducing...

[Iguana Man]

I don't know why, but this was my first thought after seeing the backside of that processor and amp:

ITS ALIVE!!!!!

[plissken99]

Well, you combine that puppy with some tube amps that have balanced audio inputs, you wouldn't need a new sound system for what... 30-40 years?

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by plissken99

Well, you combine that puppy with some tube amps that have balanced audio inputs, you wouldn't need a new sound system for what... 30-40 years?

Yeah with everything that Denon packed into this pre/pro, It's about as future proof as they come. I don't see me needing (or wanting) to upgrade to something different for at least 8+ years. And I would love to get Denon's matching 10 channel amplifier, but since I already have 10 channel amplification there is really no need to.

Now what would really be sweet is to have Denon's new Blu-ray transport connected to this thing. Oh my, if I had that as well, I would never leave the house


Seth

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by Iguana Man

I don't know why, but this was my first thought after seeing the backside of that processor and amp:

ITS ALIVE!!!!!

Yes Dr. Frankenstein's pre/pro LIVES!!!

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by PunkMunkey

Those pics are boner inducing...

[EM3]

Originally Posted by plissken99

Well, you combine that puppy with some tube amps that have balanced audio inputs, you wouldn't need a new sound system for what... 30-40 years?

It would take me that long to get it paid off.

[zepherman]

I have the official spec sheets for both of these units. Pretty impressive stuff.

http://avforum.no/forum/attachments/...eet-121907.pdf

http://avforum.no/forum/attachments/...0121907-1-.pdf

[Iguana Man]

Originally Posted by zepherman

I have the official spec sheets for both of these units. Pretty impressive stuff.

http://www.mediafire.com/?2txm2jmsuyz

I'll say this....wait....what the hell was that link for again cause I clicked on the wrong, no make that the right thing!

EDITED: There was a spicy ad when I first clicked the link. Fangor or something. Anyway, that is what I was referring to with my comment.

[Sehnzeleid]

Denon recently posted the AVR-5308CI, the receiver version of the AVP-A1HDCI.

http://www.usa.denon.com/ProductDetails/3755.asp#

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by Iguana Man

I'll say this....wait....what the hell was that link for again cause I clicked on the wrong, no make that the right thing!

EDITED: There was a spicy ad when I first clicked the link. Fangor or something. Anyway, that is what I was referring to with my comment.

Yeah It's interesting some of the ads these sites have on them.

I was originally wanting to do a direct attachment on this site, but the file sizes for these pdf documents were just too large. So I had to use an alternative method.

Glad to know that the ads were appealing.

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by Sehnzeleid

Denon recently posted the AVR-5308CI, the receiver version of the AVP-A1HDCI.

http://www.usa.denon.com/ProductDetails/3755.asp#

Yeah I noticed that as well. And since the owners manual for the AVP-A1HDCI is not yet available to view on Denon's website, I downloaded the manual for the 5308CI instead. The whole GUI on both the receiver and pre/pro is identical, as is most of the settings.

So until I can actually get a hold of a manual for the pre/pro, at least I have something I can read through to start learning how to do what.

You know it's amazing how many current owners of pre/pro's from the likes of Krell, Classe', Theta, Meridian, etc. are either buying a Denon AVP-A1HDCI or are strongly considering one.

I think that even Classe' thought that Denon may steal some of the thunder from their upcoming SSP-800 as it was originally going to sell for $11k- $12k, and has now been "officially" lowered to a much friendlier $8k MSRP. But the Classe' SSP-800 still won't offer half of what the Denon will. The Classe' will have no network/Wi-Fi capability, no decoding for TrueHD and DTS HD MA, no Audyssey MultEQ XT/Pro, no HQV Realta, and the list goes on.

So in my opinion, the Denon is going to be the high end pre/pro to beat for under $20k. The only pre/pro that will do "almost" everything the Denon will is the Krell Evolution 707, and that puppy is going to run around $20k!



Seth

[zepherman]

Here's a video clip from Cinenow.TV that shows a pre-production AVP-A1HDCI/POA-A1HDCI from the What HiFi Sound & Vision show held last year. Even though the pair shown at the show were pre-production units, it's still cool to check out.

http://us.cinenow.com/videos/1120-de...sion-show-2007

[zepherman]

Well I just got an official confirmation from my dealer that the AVP-A1HD is definitely on track for a 3rd week in February release. Yippee!!!!

[Iguana Man]

Originally Posted by zepherman

Well I just got an official confirmation from my dealer that the AVP-A1HD is definitely on track for a 3rd week in February release. Yippee!!!!

Zeph, I am collectively giving you a "YOU SUCK" from all members here at the File.

(you lucky sumbitch! )

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by Iguana Man

Zeph, I am collectively giving you a "YOU SUCK" from all members here at the File.

(you lucky sumbitch! )

Thanks Iggy

Believe me I am counting down the days for this thing to arrive. I've only been following this pre/pro since like what,early last year? Now that it is "finally" a reality I am so jazzed about it. I love my Sunfire TGIII, and will keep it as a back up unit, but this new Denon with all its goodies is going to be freakin' awesome! And an added bonus is that it comes with a 3 year factory warranty.

So now I have about a month before my new pre/pro arrives. So I have between now and then to get things ready for its arrival. I already ordered some new audioquest/cinemaquest HDMI-3 cables (3 meter and 1 meter) and a 50 ft CAT 6a shielded cable for streaming music from my PC. Once the Cat 6a cable arrives I'll have it in place and ready to just connect to the Denon's Ethernet port.

I know that there will be a long learning curve to this thing, as it has so many features, setting, and adjustments. Probably a year from now I'll probably still be learning new stuff about it.

Once I get it I'll be sure to give a detailed review.



Seth

[EM3]

If I win the lottery I'll buy one and give my impressions also. Congrats and have fun with it.

[zepherman]

Originally Posted by EM3

If I win the lottery I'll buy one and give my impressions also. Congrats and have fun with it.

Thanks EM3 Yeah I'm pretty jazzed about this one. And yes, it is a good chunk of change, but if it does everything Denon says it will, and if it sounds as good as I'm thinking it will, then It'll be well worth the price of admission.



Seth

[zepherman]

Just wanted to let you all know that I changed out the spec sheet links with new ones. So no more sexy ads to drool over. Sorry Iggy. he he

[zepherman]

If anyone is curious as to what the owners manuals for these two are all about, here they are.

http://www.usa.denon.com/AVP-A1HDCI-OM-E_004.pdf

http://www.usa.denon.com/POA-A1HDCI-OM-E_005.pdf

[zepherman]

And here's what Jeff Talmadge of Denon had to say about the upcoming pre/pro.

The AVP shares only the DSP section and chassis from the 5308CI. It has dual torrodial transformers, 6 seperate power supplies, the aforemention DAC section, differential volume control, differential A/D conversion on all inputs including the external multi-channel inputs. This is by far the highest quality engineered piece of A/V gear we have ever built! I would without a doubt put it up against any product in its class or above it!!

It will be shipping around the middle of February, retail is $7k (same for the POA-A1HDCI amplifier...should be up on our site in the next few days...