Isn't it also true with the Arcam that you need a BD player that allows you to set the speaker sizes, distances, cross overs, etc when running lossless?
I think I had read this somewhere, as the Arcam processing will not work when running HD content through it.
Basically, the Arcam will only control volume. You should use the player to set speaker size, delays, and sub on or off. However, the Arcam can be set to provide a 10db boost to LFE over analog which most players do not.
Providing all HD audio is decoded in the player, you will get lossless audio via analog, and it sounds great! Generally, with better preamps and receivers the difference between digital processing (DTS 5.1) and lossless analog will be greater. I can assure you, you will hear a difference!
The AVR350 puts out a very solid 100W per channel RMS with all channels driven. 120W per ch. for 2 ch.
High current also.
The true quality of the Arcam is not just transparency in reproduction, but the 'quiet' between passages.
The new Oppo player provides a default of 80Hz for a crossover when setting up analog. This is against 100Hz by most other players. In fact, the Pioneer '05 and '09 models set it at 120Hz.
I've read some articles that claim 120Hz is adequate for soundtracks. I am sure most players compromise 80Hz with 100Hz because some consumers are using HTIB sound systems. I have no reason to believe Pioneer is not doing the same.
I think most HT (non-HTIB) setups with quality 5.1/7.1 speakers will be very comfortable with 80Hz with the speakers in the player set for small. And these same receivers are likely setup using a 60-90HZ crossover range with other sources.
