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INTEGRA DHC-80.3 Surround Processor

I'm a 2-channel music guy, who is about to take the plunge into his first surround rig.

Based on the feature set and functionality that I desire, my local dealer has steered me toward Integra's 80.3 processor for the hub of this sytem.

I have no experience with surround processors or Integra and am looking for some general feedback.

Are Integra's processors reliable? Good Performers? Easy to use? Priced fairly?

I realize that the 80.3 is brand new, replacing the 80.2.

I'd love to hear from current or past owners of the 80.2, or any of Integra's processors/receivers.

In this $2500+/- price point, is the Integra processor a good investment?

If you've had problems or found other brands to be a ***significantly*** higher value, please chime in.

If owning an Integra processor or surround receiver has been a good experience, I'd love to hear that too.

Thank you.
barrelchief

Showing 7 responses by kr4

kr4's avatar
kr4
3,657 posts
 
Classe SSP-800
Meridian 861v6/HD621
McIntosh MX-150
Very different animals.
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,657 posts
 
What I have to say in general about the Integra 80.2 is that it is the standard-setter for (how shall I put this?) non-high-end processors. I have not used the 80.3 nor the Onkyo equivalents. All other general comments are in my columns about the 80.2:
http://forum.stereophile.com/content/music-round-49
http://forum.stereophile.com/content/music-round-50-0

Kal
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,657 posts
 
What are the more advanced features in the 80.3 than the 80.2?"

Kal
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,657 posts
 
For $500, it is the only "new" deal but that is all I can think of that makes it desirable.
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,657 posts
 
HDMI bypass is common to almost all modern prepros.
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,657 posts
 
I am not sure how your specific application demands something different from standard HDMI passthrough which is usually automatic requiring no buttons or menus. I do not have an 80.3 but every other recent prepro, so far, does this without any programming at all.

Still, if this function is critical for you and you are happy that the 80.3 meets your needs, I see no reason to deter you.

Kall
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,657 posts
 
There is a bigger feature list for the "hi value for money" prepros than there is for most (but not all) of the high-end prepros but the fundamental sound quality is not as good.

OTOH, one does pay a big price for this in $$ and in loss of features. Whether it is worth it is a very individual choice.

I am very happy with the Integra 80.2 which I just re-installed in my CT system today.

Kal
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