Integra has introduced the THX Ultra2 Certified DTC-9.8, an exceptionally versatile audio-video preamplifier / processor designed to meet the complex needs of system integrators and custom installers. This three-zone processor features HDMI v. 1.3a switching, HQV Reon-VX video processing, complete 7.1-channel processing including onboard decoding for lossless and HD audio formats, and an extensive suite of multizone/multisource and system integration control features all at a suggested retail price of just $1,600.
Discuss "Integra DTC-9.8 Three-Zone Preamplifier/Processor Introduced" here. Read the article.
Now that's what I am talking about. I am going to have to put my RXV 2600 up for sale now. Sweet, and balanced too.
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"Thomas Jefferson once said, 'We should never judge a president by his age, only by his works.' And ever since he told me that, I stopped worrying." - Ronald Reagan
That is a perfect combination for me. The combination of audio/video processing, XLR and the multizone is going to be hard for anyone to beat. And for 1600msrp to start and sure to drop by the time I am ready to buy.
The whole xlr row of inputs would be a waste for me........
Every piece of equipment with zone 2/3 is a waste for me, as would balanced input/outputs. But the video processing on the Integra, as far as I can see, is only available on processors 2x or 3x the price. [Shatner]I...want one...bad...Don't need it...just want it...must...not...buy...yet...[/Shatner]
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Dave.
Dynaudio Focus 140, Era D5 LCR Center + Era D3 surrounds, SVS PB12-Plus, Integra DTC 9.8, Rotel RMB-1075, Toshiba Regza 52", Bell HD-PVR Satellite, Panasonic BD35, Escient Fireball, SMS-1, Panamax 5300EX.
It never ceases to amaze me how much technology can be crammed into a small box and produce some of the best video and audio processing most of us have ever had the pleasure to experience at this price point.
Do you need all these features? Maybe, maybe not, but its there if you do.
Five years ago, we would only have dreamed of such capabilities at this price point. Terranex video chips alone were in the 5 figure range!!!!
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Personally I feel that the video processing is the real icing on the cake.
But perhaps more amazing is the Onkyo Receiver TX-SR875 which is essentially this pre/pro with an amplifier section and can be had for the same price. Which is a great option for those who don’t already own external amplification.
Combine the good looks of a Denon and the good innards and price of the Onkyo/Integra and you have the perfect unit for most home enthusiasts who don't make 7 figure incomes.
I think the Integra has some nice internal components. I think it has a fantastic price that will help bring back a lot of people who would prefer separates but don't own controlling shares of a fortune 500 company.
As much as I really think the Integra is a fantastic find - I wish they had gotten rid of the gaudy silver knobs and buttons, hidden some of the inputs with a flap or something. Lastly lose the slanted display - makes this fantastic unit look cheap.
You could get the Onkyo brother of this unit (PR-SC885P http://www.onkyopro.com/model.cfm?m=...eamplifier&p=i) which addresses the cheap look of the chassis but instead introduces a green display with the slanted font - won't match any other unit in your cabinet.
Aside from the looks that remind me of the units Sears sold in the 80s, these units have a LOT to offer at a very reasonable price - all in all well done. (maybe next year you can hire someone who doesn't live in a trailer home to design the chassis and the display though - otherwise they'll probably just add flames to distinguish next year’s unit).
I'm a big fan of Denon but their choice in components this year is getting me to seriously look at alternatives and this unit is HIGH on my list. I'm hoping Audioholics will consider a shootout comparison of a similarly priced Onkyo to a Denon - I'd like to know for sure which would be a better choice. I expect both to have some advantages in different areas over the other but it would be nice to know which unit excels and where. Frankly I'd like a comparison of this $1600 to the $7000 Denon coming out - I'd like to know if the price difference would be worth it for me to consider.
I too would be very interested in a comparison between one of the Denon receivers as pre-pro vs the DTC-9.8. Based on price point, it would be between 3808/4308 and the 9.8.
Integra DTC-9.8 Three-Zone Preamplifier/Processor Introduced
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