Okay, I think in some ways this is getting a bit more complicated than it needs to be.
#1 - There has been mention of using Component instead of HDMI as a cost-saving measure. IMHO, this is a non-issue. All of the newest pre-pros have both Component and HDMI connections. The big difference between the two is that HDMI will carry both audio and video signals. It is a one-cable hook-up. Using Component requires a separate feed for audio and video.
Picture-wise, it's a wash, Component looks just as good as HDMI. Sound-wise, HDMI (especially V. 1.3) is the better way to go since it supports all the latest codecs and can handle hi-res (lossless) multi-channel music effortlessly. S/PDIF and TosLink cannot, they simply do not have the bandwidth needed.
#2 - Others have mentioned that if you go with an older spec. HDMI the only thing you'll lose is some of the newest sound codecs. My contention is that while they may not be widespread now, they most likely will be in the near future. Why would you start off by painting yourself into a corner? My assumption is that you are buying this to enjoy for many years. If that is the case, future-proof your setup by making sure it supports ALL of the newest codecs now. Otherwise, you will not be able to enjoy the benefits of Dolby Digital True HD, DTS HD, DTS Master Audio, etc.
#3 - The Emotiva *has* been delayed - but it was delayed from this past February (2008) to its imminent release in the next 3-4 weeks. And the unit costs only $699. If you cannot afford this, you honestly have no business even thinking about buying any multi-channel pre-processor. Trust me on this point, the Emotiva has ALL the capability you need and it is at a price that is going to seriously embarrass the competition. I honestly think it has a good shot at being the Home Theater Product of the Year for 2009. Do yourself a favor and contact Emotiva and get on the pre-order list, I did so almost 10 months ago and I'm just about giddy with excitement over its impending release [smile]...
BTW, I am NOT an Emotiva shill. I am simply a satisfied customer who has seen how genuinely good their products are and how well they treat customers after the sale. This company is a rare bird indeed...
Best Wishes,
-RW-
#1 - There has been mention of using Component instead of HDMI as a cost-saving measure. IMHO, this is a non-issue. All of the newest pre-pros have both Component and HDMI connections. The big difference between the two is that HDMI will carry both audio and video signals. It is a one-cable hook-up. Using Component requires a separate feed for audio and video.
Picture-wise, it's a wash, Component looks just as good as HDMI. Sound-wise, HDMI (especially V. 1.3) is the better way to go since it supports all the latest codecs and can handle hi-res (lossless) multi-channel music effortlessly. S/PDIF and TosLink cannot, they simply do not have the bandwidth needed.
#2 - Others have mentioned that if you go with an older spec. HDMI the only thing you'll lose is some of the newest sound codecs. My contention is that while they may not be widespread now, they most likely will be in the near future. Why would you start off by painting yourself into a corner? My assumption is that you are buying this to enjoy for many years. If that is the case, future-proof your setup by making sure it supports ALL of the newest codecs now. Otherwise, you will not be able to enjoy the benefits of Dolby Digital True HD, DTS HD, DTS Master Audio, etc.
#3 - The Emotiva *has* been delayed - but it was delayed from this past February (2008) to its imminent release in the next 3-4 weeks. And the unit costs only $699. If you cannot afford this, you honestly have no business even thinking about buying any multi-channel pre-processor. Trust me on this point, the Emotiva has ALL the capability you need and it is at a price that is going to seriously embarrass the competition. I honestly think it has a good shot at being the Home Theater Product of the Year for 2009. Do yourself a favor and contact Emotiva and get on the pre-order list, I did so almost 10 months ago and I'm just about giddy with excitement over its impending release [smile]...
BTW, I am NOT an Emotiva shill. I am simply a satisfied customer who has seen how genuinely good their products are and how well they treat customers after the sale. This company is a rare bird indeed...
Best Wishes,
-RW-