I like what Audyssey did for me
My Marantz AV8003 is the first processor I've used to have an auto set up feature. So since I was used to setting it up myself and all the negative things I've heard about Audyssey and similar set up programs I just never tried it. I finally got around to running my Audyssey just to see what it could or would do, and I have to say I love what it did. My AV8003 doesn't display the crossover frequencies but it did show some interesting adjustments, like the left main EQ is different from the right, the sub distance was set at 16 feet which is at about twice as far as it actually is. I think this may be where people get in trouble, second guessing the program, it looks strange, but when you consider what it's job is, too equalize based on room conditions the settings could be very relevant. I could also see why some may at first think it sounds worse, the bass is not infringing on the rest of the sound stage, it kicks in just when it is supposed to according to the movie's sound track. I found the Audyssey set up more open and detailed. I'm sure this is attributed to simply a better balance of system and room. My HT system sounded good before and the SVS sub is excellent at blending without over powering, it's just that the Audyssey was able to make it all sound better. I have to admit "better" is relative to the listener, I for one had a positive result and wanted to share it in case any one else was like me and just never tried it.