Need help deciding Best HT Processor under 5K

Mike Keith · 02-26-2004, 08:55 PM

This will be the largest single sum of money I’ve ever spent on a Hi-Fi component, so I’m planning on turning over every stone so to speak. I need a Processor that will play Multi channel Music and Movies with plenty of I/O's, and Analog Pass Thru (maybe 2). But most of all glitch free and upgradeable software, dead quite noise floor and very flexible multi output Bass Redirection. I have 4 subwoofers at different X-points and slopes now and it would be nice if the new Processor could take care of all my Bass Redirection.

Here are the Processors I’m considering, any comments or personal experience would be most appreciated.

1 Parasound Halo C2 http://www.audioholics.com/FAQs/ParasoundHaloC2.html

2 Classe SSP-60 http://www.avguide.com/product/Multi...SP-60/2489.jsp
3 Marsh HT-4000
http://www.allhometheater.net/marsoundesht.html

4 Moon Stargate
http://www.simaudio.com/moonstargate.htm

5 EAD Ovation
http://www.plazaaudio.com/eadtheatmaso.html

6 Anthem
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volum...0-12-2001.html

Maybe even a B&K or Rotel..

Thanks
KD

George Caronan · 02-26-2004, 09:14 PM

I recommend the Anthem AVM-20 which has THX Ultra 2 Movie and Music Mode processing, balanced outputs, multi-zone features, upgradeable software capability. It does have bass management for both Music and Movie sets of speakers too. The user has provisions for two centers and two subwoofers as choices. Flexible bass-management for DVD-Audio and SACD. Customizable options for the multi-room audio/video feeds. Processing is via the most current Motorola chip available. Set-up is user-friendly with an intuitive OSD menu. Anthem's customer service is first rate as well. Performance wise, I really enjoy the quality of the audio it produces mated with two Sunfire Cinema Grand amps. With the $1,500 leftover, you can get more gear or speakers! Hope I'm able to help. Good luck.

Mike Keith · 02-27-2004, 10:23 AM

Thanks for the heads up on the Anthem, I did some research and it seems like a top candidate, although I didn't find a local dealer so I don't know if I can get one to audition.

Doug_B · 02-27-2004, 11:53 AM

I don't think you can set up the 2 subwoofer outs of the AVM-20 with different crossovers. Don't know about the others, but I don't think this is a feature easily found in a HT controller.

Doug

George Caronan · 02-27-2004, 01:09 PM

Doug,

I assumed that the crossover for the sub applies to both and not separately although that would have been a nice touch.

Mike,

It's unfortunate you can't find a dealer so that you can audition one. It is a great item. Good luck with your choices.

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Mike Keith · 02-27-2004, 05:53 PM

The Halo C2 has 2 programmable outputs that I think can be used for Sub outputs at different X-Points, and a separate output for tactile transducers, which I will need for my Bass Shakers. It's starting to look like the Halo is my only choice.

Ted Pugh · 02-28-2004, 07:14 AM

At that price you have to consider the Lexicon MC8.

Mike Keith · 02-29-2004, 08:56 PM

Actually I have been eyeballing a used MC12B for a little more than I want to spend, but it might handle my Bass Management needs.

Geoff Costello · 03-01-2004, 09:00 AM

Mike,

Given your bass management requirements - If you can stretch to the Lexicon MC-12B - my advice would be "jut do it". I have researched about 15 HT processors extensively and the MC8 and MC-12's capabilities in bass handling are outstanding. With 3 DSPs plus an "extra" signal processor - it has the cycles to move bass from anywhere to anywhere and support lots of channels, including 3 independent sub channels, and filters that allow bass to be redirected from small speakers to large and then to subs. Built like a battleship - regularly upgraded, the Lexicon MC-12 is the reference HT processor for many magazines and has lots of fanatically loyal owners.

The only other processor that I am aware of that comes close for your bass management needs is the Parasound Halo C1 or C2 with it's 4 extra programmable channels that can do bass redirection (or any other type of signal redirection). Also (apparently) very nice

Geoff

George Kouzev · 03-01-2004, 05:27 PM

Mike,

From what you say, you want to practically eliminate the internal sub x-overs by setting them all at their maximum levels, and let the processor do your bass management. I see nothing wrong with feeding all these different subs with the same x-over point from the processor. If you want to individually adjust all of these different subs (x-overs and phase), you are up for a huge job with questionable results. The amount of the possible combinations and interaction with various speakers