After eight years of using a NAD receiver for the HT, I decided to upgrade to separates. I wanted HDMI connectivity, more power and the flexibility of separates. I confess that I was initially concerned about quality given the rock bottom pricing they offer. I spent about the same for a UMC-1 processor and XPA-5 amplifier as I had for the T-763 which now serves duty in a bedroom.

So far, so good. The units were easy to configure and have also been trouble free. I did go through one firmware update for the UMC-1. That was a pretty straight forward procedure although it was somewhat time consuming. Overall, sound quality is a touch better and the amp certainly has more headroom. I realize that I was pushing the NAD at times and it is nice to have ample power even for Shuttle launches!

While HDMI offers somewhat simpler cabling and access to the higher resolution audio signal from Bluray sources, the need for handshaking sure is a bummer. The processor always wakes up like a drunken sailor. It powers up fine, but then must have its conversation with all the devices. Video flashes, displays "no signal", flash again, displays "no signal", cable box responds, flashes again and finally settles down to viewing. Sometimes, I have to switch on the BR player to make it happy - even if I'm just going to watch cable. So much for the instantaneous switching of "old" technology. I'm certainly glad that audio has moved in the opposite direction with respect to convenience and speed using music server/streamers and downloadable content. I would never buy an HDMI based audio system.

Overall, I'm very pleased with the Emotiva brand. I cracked the case of the power amp and while it is certainly not high end, the build quality is good. Its modular design should facilitate servicing should it ever require that. Two thumbs up.

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