What's the latest word on the Emotiva UMC-1?

I thought about that unit but came to the conclusion that just for me, I want or definitely prefer stateside support, whenever possible. Physical repairs, configuration suport, etc. True too, I prefer to gbuy stateside products first and/or whenever possible. I'd extend that criteria to all of North America made products.

Only budgetary constraints force me to look offshore, and in that regard Japanese electronics have a long and proven track record of good performance and on shore repair facilities.

Given the price tag too, a preowned unit in the same category as the Motiva isn't much higher priced. Ala Onkyo, INtegra, etc.

I am on the pre-order list for the UMC-1. I have an audyssey multiEQ stand alone box, so I don't need any room Eq in the processor.....and even thought the UMC-1 has room equalization, I'm hoping I can bypass it because the price is terrific. Dolby Volume plus my audyssey unit should be a great combination.

Having said that, I think that the jury is out on room EQ on the UMC-1...no one knows. Audyssey in the Onkyo/Integra/Denon/Marantz/.... is pretty proven and in most cases it significantly improves the sound. The worse your room is acoustically, the more Audyssey helps. Will the UMC-1 do as well.....who knows?

As far as repairs and support, I wouldn't count on any company...all have horror stories. This type of equipment either works or it doesn't...and you'll know within 7 days. I wouldn't make any decision based on my estimate of support/repairs/locality.

You won't go wrong with an Onkyo or Integra....you can wait for the Outlaw 997 or you can give the UMC-1 a try and if it doesn't work, I'm sure EBAY will be your friend.

The UMC-1 is the best deal in audio, period. Don't let the low price fool you, this is a very goos AV pre-pro. Plus, Emotiva gives you 30 days to evaluate, your only risk is the shipping cost, about $25...

-RW-

Please give us an update on the performance of the UMC-1 once anyone gets it setup.