Processor recommendation

What are your thoughts on conditioners and surge protector combo?

get the Marantz 8802A, I own one, purchased new.  you can get great deals on used ones since marantz came out with a new processor the 8805 i believe is he model #. not much difference between that and the 8802A in regards to electronics.

I have not heard the MX122 directly, so I’m assuming here.  I think both would have similar sound, a somewhat laid back sonic signature.  Both have good approaches to power supply.  I could be wrong, but I think McIntosh uses op amps for all analog stages, where the Marantz has discrete audio output boards.  The Marantz will be cheaper because they sell a LOT more and can sell for lower price.  McIntosh sure does have a beautiful front panel.

Do you like the Marantz 8802 over the MX122?

I actually did not like Theta when I tried it in my system.  However, with those McIntosh amps, a Theta might be okay.  The Casablanca III is old technology at this point and should be avoided if you need HDMI support.

i agree on Emotiva.  It’s good features for money, but very mediocre sound.  I would recommend Marantz 8802 (or even 7702 or newer) over the Emotive just for sound quality purposes!!

anthem avm60 is good, but I really like the idea of the discrete analog output stages in the Marantz.  The 8802 has an excellent power supply as well (I think 40,000uf of capacitance, more than some amps!).

Yes, exactly, wanted a Casablanca 3D upgraded but the best price I can get is 8500, a little much and wanted something just as good but less expensive.  Any thoughts? McIntosh mx121 or ??

Yes, exactly, wanted a Casablanca 3D upgraded but the best price I can get is 8500, a little much and wanted something just as good but less expensive.  Any thoughts?

I had an old Theta Casanova. LOVED IT! 

I was hoping they'd make a Casanova II or the Supernova, but they did not, they went with the Casablanca III HD or something for a lot more cash than I wanted to spend. 

Best,

E

Love your speakers. :) 

REALLY disliked the Emotiva. It sounded exactly like you would expect middle of the road import gear to sound like. Quiet, reliable, and bone dull. 

I always wanted to try one of the NAD units now that they are making them pretty modular. 

Anthem AV60. Has ARC, 11.2 XLR, Latest design. I have one with 1x525for the rears, 1x325 for the fronts, 1x325 for the roof and 2 subs. I wouldn't recommend it if it wasn't good.