|
While the Rotels are great units I think there are better options for the money. Ecost currently has refurbished Denon 2805s and 3805s for $530 and $650 respectively. Combine either with a good 2ch or even 5ch amp (rotel if you really like their stuff) and you have what in my opinion would be a much better setup for the same money with better features and probably better amplification (assuming you added something like a 1070 2ch amp or older 985 5ch amp). The 2805 and 3805 both have an advanced automatic room equalization system, 3 100mhz component video inputs and component video upconversion for all composite and s-video sources. The lack of inputs, 100mhz video switching, component up-conversion, and especially room-eq makes the 2805 or 3805 a much better pre-pro from a feature standpoint, and neither will disappoint in sound quality either, especially when matched with a good external amp. The 1056 is a step in the right direction but only having 5 internal amps, no room-eq, and the well documented hiss problems still makes me lean towards the other similar retail priced receivers that are available at amazing deals refurbished to use as pre-pros.
|
One thing to keep in mind though is that as Mark says the 1055 is a discontinued model which was replaced with the more flexible 1056 this past year. the 1055 also requires a modification to properly handle bass on its multi channel inputs that your dealer can do for you (though they may not know about it) or you can do yourself at home if you like. Also make sure that its the version two line as those are the ones with the improved video so that they'll pass HD properly. To test which version it is press and hold the mute button on the remote for several seconds and you'll see the firmware level displayed on the screen...it should start with a 2 as is in 2.29 etc. If you have any other rotel questions please feel free to email me directly if you like.
