Integra DTR 8.8 ($1,600) vs DTR 8.9 ($1,900) ?

[ouchakov]

Hello, everyone!

Wondering what's the popular opinion will be...

My local Barretts has a last years DTR 8.8 on sale for $1,600 (demo). However, a new '09 DTR 8.9 is only $300 more expensive MSRP ($1,900), so with a discount, I can probably get it at $1,750.

I am debating whether or not get 8.8 for $1,600 ? Any opinions out there? It's interesting how Integra could shave off $500 of MSRP with two almost identical receivers...

Regards,

- O.

 

[ouchakov]

Little more info

Ok, I was fishing around Intergra website, and here is the most significant differences:

DTR 8.8 -
10w more powerful per channel,
THS Ultra2
High Instantaneous Current Capability is 5A higher,
Had some problems with color accuracy, but it was supposed to be fixed with a firmware update (which Barretts said they'll do for free)

DTR 8.9 -
Certified THX ultra2 plus
Incorporates ISFccc (Imaging Science Foundation Certified Calibration Controls) capability, giving installers a simpler and more effective way to optimize individual video source calibration for high-end home theater installations
has 3 independent power supplies (as opposed to 1 in DTR 8.8)

So, 8.9 sounds like a better deal unless I can get 8.8 for $1,400? Any opinions?

Cheers,

- O

 

[ParadigmDawg]

I would get the 8.9.

 

[ouchakov]

AVS forum does not recommend 8.8 for video scaler

I got a few comments on AVS forum re: 8.8.
In case anyone is interested, the latest firmware update for DTR 8.8 is version 1.9 and it does NOT fix the color space issue as a result of poor Reon implementation in this Integra receiver. The ISF people recommend disabling Reon chip in 8.8 to get accurate color on the displays.
Kind of a deal breaker for me. Why spend extra $ on a receiver that cannot scale correctly? Just my 2 cents.
So far the new DTR 8.9 was not evaluated for any improvements in Reon chip implimentation, it's a fine receiver but does not have internet radio streaming, but almost just as powerful. So far I am inclined to get 8.9 ...

Cheers, everyone,

-S

 

[zumbo]

Local Barretts. Lucky.

8.9

 

[ouchakov]

In case anyone interested Barretts in Naperville, IL - Last Year Integra demo sale

In case you are interested, Barretts in Naperville is clearing out its demo products, I saw Integra receivers, B&W speakers and subwoofers. There is not a lot of stuff there...but if you are looking for something, can as well check it out. Happy hunting.

 

[Adam]

Naperville, huh? Nice place. I had a buddy in college that was from there.

I'd get the 8.9, but that's just because I like to get the newest unless it's obviously inferior to the previous model.

How important is the video scaler to you?

 

[davidtwotrees]

I bought my Escient Fireball at the Barret's in Naperville. Nice store, good service. Pricey. I think they're used to dealing with Napervillians who aren't that cost conscious.

 

[davidtwotrees]

I really wanted one of these units but couldn't justify the cost and actually went with a budget minded unit, the Yammie 663. Thanks for the input though. The objectivists are starting to have a good influence on me!
The reciever also frees up a two channel parasound amp, and I also will have a lexicon dc1 with analog out upgrades sitting around.........

 

[ouchakov]

Adam [I'd get the 8.9, but that's just because I like to get the newest unless it's obviously inferior to the previous model.

How important is the video scaler to you?]

In my view, in a receiver, the video scaler just as important as any audio processing. As a matter of fact, I would accept twice as less audio processing options just to get a good video processing so I don't have to worry about getting very expensive transports to get video right.
Actually, I don't think there are any mega DVD changers besides sony's and their video processing is rather mediocre (what I remember from reviews). I would get Oppo's DVD player, but it is so much more convenient just to use changers. I was considering ripping DVDs and making a media server, but without Escient DVD management software or other expensive options, it didn't seem to make sense spending time and $ to get that started.

If I had the dough, I would go with Anthem pre/pro

Cheers,

- O

 

[jostenmeat]

I am debating whether or not get 8.8 for $1,600 ? Any opinions out there? It's interesting how Integra could shave off $500 of MSRP with two almost identical receivers...

This seems to be an annual occurrence! I've done the "last year's" thing with substantial savings in mind. Best part is that its new, not used, refurbished, open-box, demo, b-stock, blemished, etc. Though I've done all that too!

In my view, in a receiver, the video scaler just as important as any audio processing. As a matter of fact, I would accept twice as less audio processing options just to get a good video processing so I don't have to worry about getting very expensive transports to get video right.
Actually, I don't think there are any mega DVD changers besides sony's and their video processing is rather mediocre (what I remember from reviews). I would get Oppo's DVD player, but it is so much more convenient just to use changers. I was considering ripping DVDs and making a media server, but without Escient DVD management software or other expensive options, it didn't seem to make sense spending time and $ to get that started.

If affordable VP in a rounded out receiver package is your thing, it seems as you've picked a very good candidate.

Outside of that, I would check out the DVDO Edge processor. Its not going to be perfect, and I'm sure it has its issues, but definitely worth investigating nonetheless. I think its only $600 retail.