Best Home Theater Processor Used 1K-3K Range

My JC-2 is packed for shipping to Parasound for a by-pass mod, so I've been using the Oppo 105 direct to Proceed HPA 2 & 3 amps that drive KEF Reference 107/2 mains and 102 surrounds. The JC-2 replaced a Cary Cinema 11a, both of which I'd guess are at least the equal of if not superior to the Emotiva UMC-200. The sound of the Oppo direct to the amps without preamp or processor is a quality I could easily be happy with.

db

Barcardi, I just did a quick scan of the XMC-1. Seems interesting! What is the power rating? I hope it's at least 150 Watts per channel.

In addition to sound quality and latest video technology, it says that it has excellent zone management. How is your current Emotiva for ease of use regarding music zones? I have various speakers I want to listen to depending on where I am in the house & backyard. My friends new Yamaha is fantastically flexible and easy to use regarding zones.

I'm not sure what your standards are for "best". Is there a dominant preference on video or audio or are both equally important? Some pre-pros will have better video options and even 4k scaling.

My personal preference is the Anthem pre-pros. The audio is fantastic and their room correction—ARC—is top notch. Video processing is incredibly granular and you can fine-tune several elements. The 3D models sport 4 HDMI 1.4 ports and 4 HDMI 1.3c ports.

I'd then recommend you look at the Integra and Marantz pre-pros with Audyssey. The Integra models come with ISF calibration and day and night settings for each HDMI port. the Marantz pre-pros have been getting fantastic reviews and Michael Fremmer made the Marantz his choice. You can get the Integra, Marantz, and Anthem 50v3D in the 1k-3k range. I don't know what your Onkyo model is and what you are finding limiting in the Onkyo.

I have not owned Emotiva products so I can't speak to how their pre-pros are.

I'd be curious what specifically you are not happy with and that may help in recommending a product that suits your tastes best.

Dawgbyte,

I've sold my UMC-200 and in regards to the Xmc-1, there is no power rating. It is simply a multi channel pre/processor with no amplification. I have not purchased the xmc-1 as I am awaiting a custom server,outboard power supply, and high end dac. You'll also need to run a separate power amp with XLR's or rca interconnects.

I have never tried multi room zones with the UMC-200 so I can't help you in that regard.

Save your money. Buy new.
Emotiva UMC 200 7.1 $599
Take the other $400 & take your wife out for a nice meal
Maybe do it twice
You will get laid and the music will sound better