Nice video Youthman. Emotiva has been using that metallized remote for a very long time and it's time to dump it IMO. I just got back from CEDIA, Arcam has 16CH of processing, with DIRAC working out of the box and it's $500 less than the RMC-1 with no slow boot up times or known audio dropouts. There are a lot of processors to choose from today at 11CH and beyond. Very exciting time to be in home theater!
@@Youthman the operating software seems to be what is causing some of the glitches noted and a review i saw elsewhere where there was too much waiting when making changes via the dial.
This preamp is not ready for the public, sounds like they rushed to release of this unit. Even at 1500 I would not buy it with all of these problems, and yes they are big problems IMHO.
The Marantz 7706 is a solid processor. It’s reliable and user friendly. I replaced the 7706 with the XMC-2 and it’s night and day with sound quality. The emotiva XMC-2 blows it out if the water sonically. My unit hasn’t had any of the bugs mentioned. My friend ended up with the RMC1L and he’s experiencing tons of bugs. I think it’s the RMC and RMC1L processors that came out buggy. I only have 9 speakers and don’t plan on getting more than 11 for my current space. I have a 5.1.4 and it sounds incredible.
Excellent review Michael. Your honesty will not only help consumers, but also the manufacturers. I'm sure they will be able to get the small quirks hammered out. For the money, you are absolutely correct, hard to beat this for 16/28 channels of processing!
Bro, you handled this like an ace. Such a great and honest review and I hope Emotiva can make improvements based on your experience. Thank you for the wealth of info and honesty in this review.
@@Edward135i It's another 2 grand which I don't take lightly, but the new 6,000 dollar Synthesis processor from Harman is probably worth the step up if the Monoprice isn't great. Either way, Emotiva is a big NO.
@@commanderrussels2612 I can understand that, it's just kind of how super expensive electronics are, they always seem to have basic problems that either don't get resolved or are fixed very slowly. I think it has to do with the fact that emotiva will only sell a few hundred of these over the products life time and enthusiast don't complain like normies do when something doesn't work.
@@Edward135i The Harman stuff has a pretty good history. Like Gene said in another comment, about the Arcam (also a harman product), you can get the new Arcam AV45 or whatever it is called which has 16CH of processing, working DIRAC, all for less money. Emotiva amps are okay but their processors are shit. I do feel you though, I'm waiting for HDMI2.1 to come out to upgrade to a Denon with 9.x.6.
Commander Russels I agree, their processors are definitely lacking, I tried their XMC-1 and didn’t notice enough of a difference to keep it over my Yamaha AVR. However I’ve got some Gen 1 XPA-1’s and I’ve heard their newer Gen XPA amps, but I’m not as big a fan of them. There’s just something about the Gen 1’s, maybe it was them fighting and doing everything they could to put them on the map, but I just love them. Only my opinion!
Great video YM! A bit disappointing to hear about the bugs but that’s par for the course with Emotiva. At least it sounds good! Should be pointed out that the expansion boards do NOT equate to additional channels of discrete processing. Even the 28ch version will decode 9.1.6 Atmos and the extra channels can be used for speaker arrays, extra subwoofers etc. Still cool, but it won’t decode Atmos to 11.1.8 or 13.1.6 for example. That is still unique to Trinnov.
Man... I'm sorry I didn't write this sooner... But this is by and far and away the best review of this unit! And I really do mean that despite my snarky comments below. You're honest, you give good and bad, and I really appreciate your honesty here! I wrote this on another review... but I think that the points made are decent for this unit. Your review came out in September, and we are now just days away from November... Yet, I don't think that any points I make here are outdated still.... 1) There is absolutely NO WAY, ZERO, to upgrade the unit to more than 16 channels, at this time, correct? 2) There is no way to have Bluetooth, Airplay, Cast, wifi configuration, internet radio, or other wireless or wired connectivity options, at this time, correct? 3) There is absolutely no difference between this unit for 5k, and the XMC-2 for 3k, except for the additional "expansion" ports and fully balanced connections on ALL 16 channels instead of just the front 3, correct? (They're charging 2k for a slightly bigger box and fully balanced) 4) Emotiva has a history of promising upgrades, but never actually delivering the upgrades. See XMC-1 upgrades, correct? (Specifically, they promised HDMI 2.0 when the XMC was introduced in 2014 but that upgrade wasn't released from Emotiva until 2018, and then, it was super buggy. YEARS after everyone else! And they promised Atmos support that was "coming soon" but never came out!) 5) All fully balanced, differential balanced audio outputs, coming from a digital source, is a gimmick, unless this unit in particular will produce noise / distortion within the unit, correct? 6) For 20 months that this product has been released to the public, DIRAC has been promised to be "coming soon"... Yet, it's still unavailable, correct? 7) There is absolutely no voice control options for Alexa, Google, or others, correct? For that matter, there is no future IMAX support for this too, correct? 8) The menu does run slowly, and that will never be speed up, correct? 9) It has an AES input (for a CD player to then use this as your dac) and balanced inputs (again to use for your dac), but no phono stage... that EVERYONE else has at this price point, correct? So using this as a pre-amp is out of the question is you use vinyl. Summing up my points up, you're paying 2k more than their base unit, for fully balanced connections, (which shouldn't be needed if it's a properly engineered unit) and the ability to upgrade in the future. But after being out for nearly two years, there is not one, single, upgrade, available. Not one! I don't have experience with this unit in particular, but those, are, the, FACTS. Having said that, I believe you that the sound quality is awesome and better than anyone else in this space. But based on a number of sources, it is slow, it is buggy, there is no way to stream to it directly, it's absurd that it takes a minute to boot, and it costs more than most of their competitors. (My $1,300 computer boots in 7 seconds... this takes 90 seconds and costs 3.5x more?!?!) In summing up your points, (with my added commentary) it drops audio in certain areas and can take up to 26 seconds for certain audio to start. Then 4 to 5 seconds for others. Dolby Atmos has output saying it's encoded in Dolby True HD. And while their explanation makes sense, based on what I know, it should be an Atmos signal... period. On a few occasions, there was no audio at all... This resulted in you powering the unit off, to wait another minute to let it power on again, to just play a movie. I can see this in a new feature, but have you EVER had an issue with a tech that's been out for 2 or 3 years that would require this? Then you talk about streaming, but there is absolutely no option for that. There is no Auro 3-d... which, I could care less about... Dirac live, despite being promised for almost two years now, will be available "soon". You have to upgrade, basically, a computer, using a USB drive.... because there are absolutely no other ways to connect this to the internet. The graphics aren't that hot in the config menu, which, also takes time to come up despite it's simplicity. The back is good. It can connect to what it should. :D I love the fact that you're not too concerned about balanced v. unbalanced connections. In most cases, it won't matter.... The remote is nice, but there is no backlight which is, I agree, a TOTAL pain! But, there are good features to the remote. As far as adjustments, who knows where they might be. And these issues can be resolved in the future, but for 5k it should, after 18 months of being the public, it should just work. And yes, the noise is distracting! And then the speed of the unit, it takes 90 seconds to boot. For 5k... My 1k computer takes 7 seconds. BUT, if you leave it on all the time, it turns on faster! (The HDMI stuff you talk about is common in my experience with everything.) Okay... and here is where I get SUPER mad at you! (I am kidding!) "Michael, would you recommend the RMC-1?" And you say yes... But given it's issues and lack of features, can you really? There are no upgrade options, at all, that are available at this time, right? And you're right... To get 20 to 28 or more channels, you'll have to spend a LOT more... But this unit can't be upgraded to more than the native 16 channels at this time, right? And DIRAC live has been promised now since it was introduced in march or may of last year... yet, it's still not available. Airplay or other network techs have been promised as upgrades, but those too still aren't available, correct? My hope, in pointing these things out to readers here and to you as a reviewer, is to call out Emotiva (which you did well here in a lot of ways) and say that this just isn't ready yet, especially for 5k. Yes, the sound quality is awesome! But given the lack of features, given the bugs, given the lack of actual upgrades at this point in time, given the fact that I can't play an Airplay song to this yet, it isn't worth it right now. And more importantly, you're asking more than Marantz, Anthem, Integra, Yamaha, Arcam, and others, who include a lot of these features and have a much better fit and finish. If this unit was perfect, if it had Dirac, Airplay, and worked flawlessly, I'd have no issue paying 5k for this. Especially considering potential upgrades. But at this time, with just promises from Emotiva.... I think that we should all call them out and say hey, it's not ready yet.... I can't upgrade it. And Emotiva, in my opinion, shouldn't ask 5k for a product that doesn't work great out of the box. That's just my opinion... You did a great job on the video here and you pointed out the good and the bad.... I really want to love this thing.... I know it sounds awesome. But I think it should just work the right way. Right out of the box. Just my thoughts... Best to you Michael and keep up the good work!
Wow! You summed it up very concisely. My point in recommending it is was the fact that at the time of the video, to get 16 - 28 channels, you would have to spend 2-3X what the RMC-1 cost. I share the good and bad and let the consumer decide if it’s right for them. I chose to send the unit back and keep my Marantz AV7705 as it has worked flawlessly and sounds fantastic from the day I got it. I’m curious to see how the Monolith HTP-1 will perform. If it sounds great, is bug free (or evening mostly bug free) and has Dirac Live, it will be a game changer. Thank you for your comments.
My Marantz gets It's firmware updates automatically. Delayed sound and having to manually update the Emotiva unit is enough of a negative for me to stay on the Marantz bandwagon!
@@supernovamoore6175 Not sure what you mean about that, the RMC-1 has three RCA inputs on the back? You can see them quite clearly when he spins the unit around at 12:25
i have had the xmc-1 since 2016, i am currently really not ready for atmos, but i have never had a glitch or hiccup with my unit since i set it up in 2016, i am still very happy with my xmc-1's sound quality, with my set up is a 70 inch 4k hdr, oppo udp 205, crown xls2502 on front ch,annels powering klipsch rf7lll's, parasound hca 2003a 3 ch amp for center and surround channels powering 3 klipsch rp 280f's, a pair of psa v3600's for subwoofers, a ps3, a sansui tu-717 tuner, denon cassette, two tripplite lcr 2400's voltage regulators/ conditioners, 2 samson pro racks, zone two is powered by a emotiva gen one xpa-2 powering two pairs of mint condition realistic mach ones in dining room, i am waiting for the issues to be worked out with the rmc-1 before i move on to atmos, i may go demo the marantz av8805 as another option.
Great unbiased review.I have an RMC and have experienced a few of your cons as well as many pros. The UMC sounded great but it was never truly ready ,The XMC was great for me once they made some firmware changes and they even pushed 4k through it before end of life. I want to give the Dirac a chance to spin up on this with a few more firmwares to make a final decision. The $4000- $6000 field will be very crowded and all of them will likely have some issues depending on who you are and whats important.
Emotiva better get Dirac working before November when the Monolith HTP-1 releases, they confirmed at Cedia that it will be shipping with it. The home theater scene has been crazy this year, lots of awesome new products and even more on the horizon going into 2020~
Time to see them hate comments. Other receivers may also display as TrueHD, just that all you have to do is to bypass the surround codec to get it. It probably shows both ATMOS and TrueHD to show that the signal is 'not that native atmos' and it is using the codec for atmos, since it is identifiable. Most, if not all processors, including receivers, do the same thing, only difference is the display. Wait Denon AV8805 and AV7705?! And good luck having a firmware update for your remote.
Emotiva Has been a interesting company they use to have good products all around If you look at the new monolith AVR last I looked it is not for sale yet they are still waiting for the Dirac Live to be released for it, Emotiva should have done the same they release this and other AVR'S way to soon with a promise that has taken to long to get Looking forward to the Monolith and hope i have the funds to get it after it is released
On the remote, I really like clicky buttons because it gives tactile feedback which makes it clear if I pressed it or not. Might actually be annoying if you're pressing the remote a lot; although, my Harmony Elite remote has clicky buttons too, and I value knowing it understood a button press. Even still, I'd be surprised if anyone actually used the remote with this unit. From what I've seen, people typically have an expensive Crestron system or use something cheaper like Logitech Harmony.
@@Youthman It seems hit or miss. Some people have this issue and some done. This is an awesome product and seems to be the best sounding of the big processors. They just need to get the bugs worked out. I had the feeling that they rushed this product to market.
No offense taken. Actually I didn't realize that. I learn something new every day. ;) Here is a link for those interested - www.nakamichi-usa.com/the-ultimate-dolby-atmos-guide
Video: first 4 minutes "Sounds and looks great!" , next 21 minutes "Problem, problem, problem, problem, problem, problem." Come on Emotiva! You're breaking my heart! I have always been your champion but your new products across the board...... sigh.
Does this unit have any ability to store memory for presets or settings and then you can just click a button to go to those settings like the trim levels? Also other than the three portsfor extra channels is there any other ability to upgrade this or are you pretty much stuck?
I am in the market for a Dirac enabled processor. I have Emotiva amps and love them. But I have read nothing but issues with this unit. I can't seem to find Dirac on any mainstream AVP. I guess the cost of admission for the manufacturers is too high to justify implementation. I got the MiniDSP with Dirac for car audio and boy did it work wonders for car audio. Sure wish someone like Denon or Marantz or any other company would come out with a AVP that had Dirac.
It's a computer, that's a pro and a con, great for upgradeability and future development but not so good for reliability and speed of boot up and signal detection. Think for me a prefer something a little more solid and a little less glitchy like a purpose built pre/pro, not as flexible, but speedy and streamlined. Kinda surprized it's not conenctable to through a web gui, that's fairly standard these days for the higher end processors. (at least not that you mentioned)
Great video but i feel at that price point there should no to very few bugs, this seems to me like a rushed product that needed some more time in the oven. Will you let us know on which amp you will be using for your home? Also, I have a great video suggestion, being that I am new this year to the home theatre I wanted to know at what price point should you consider going separates vs av receiver? For Example, If your speaker s are $2000 or below is it worth going separates? That would be a great video n when or if going seprates is worth the purchase. Anyway, just a suggestion but keep up the great content.
Wow, those number of channels seem like overkill for home applications :-) And as such, I guess Emotiva probably wasn't pressured for a stable release. One thing with my current setup, I've been pleased that Denon's firmware updates all seem stable (my current firmware update for my OLED TV has proven to be buggy). Maybe Denon/Marantz offers this as they're more "mass produced". Also when it comes to displaying sound formats: that's another feature I like about my Denon: with the mobile app, you can easily see what the input format is and then the output (odd that the source audio would show Atmos and output TrueHD: Atmos is basically extra meta-data on top of a TrueHD core for discs and Dolby Digital+ for streaming). With the mobile remote app, I also use it more when watching content as it's really easy to access surround mode selection, subwoofer trim, and (most used) audio delay (some of my sources have lip sync issues at time: pointing the finger at Apple). I've got a standard 7.1.4 setup and have been impressed with how seamless the surround field is with 3-D audio and proper calibration. I've never been able to hear a native Auro-3D movie, but can cycle it for upmixing 5.1/7.1. It's a nice option: seems sometimes it places more emphasis overhead, even though it outputs 5 channel surround instead of 7 channel (and overall tonality and dynamics seem similar to Dolby's Surround). RE headphones: I'm a bit of an audiophile and have several expensive headphones. Even the expensive ones do have adapters for 1/4 inch to 3.5mm. There is a 3.5mm standard that's balanced (what most audiophiles are striving for now), except it's not as popular as 2.5 (now the popular mobile balanced setup). I've got a dedicated headphone amp that accepts unbalanced or balanced XLR. With my headphones, I have both unbalanced cables and balanced XLR ones. The headphone amp has outputs for unbalanced 1/4 and 3.5mm as well as XLR 4 pin and balanced 3.5mm. Headphone amp setup sounds great for music. When it comes to Dolby or DTS headphone, only time I've felt a sense of surround is when I've listened to dedicated headphone tracks (on the web). The best general purpose movie surround (from a matrix stereo for headphone) I've heard is a Sennheiser Dolby Pro Logic processor I got with a pair of headphones.
You bought this unit two years ago. Now that you have been using for a while, what is your take. Has Emotiva put the software update for room correction yet? I am debating between Marrantz AV 8005 vs Emotiva RMC-1
I didn’t buy the unit. I review gear on my channel. This unit was returned so I am unsure if the issues have been resolved in the RMC-1. I can say that I have had zero issues or bugs with my Marantz AV7706. Absolute rock solid performance and I use it 3-5 times a week.
Great review I like how you presented it as it is. First review I have seen of the rmc-1 that shows both positives and negatives. How do you like it compared to the marantz 8805? How about the anthem 60? Everyone seems to agree the rmc-1 sounds amazing.
Maybe I missed it but wondering what you thoughts are on the RMC-1 vs the Marantz AV7705. I too have the SR8012 and am currently considering separates. Also curious on your thoughts of the Emotiva 11 channel amp vs the monolith. Thanks. Loving the channel BTW.
Unfortunately the RMC-1 was way too buggy for me personally. I think it has great potential but in its current state, it wasn’t a good fit for me. My SR8012 sounded great, and now my 7705 even better. Not to mention both work flawlessly
Sounds like a PITA pre.. even if this is YOUR unit....I'd be interested to know if EMOTIVA has fixed the latency problems. Odd they would give people a cheap looking remote. No backlit buttons? My old Pioneer Elite AVR...almost 10 years old has a few backlit buttons. Like the volume...and a few other key buttons. Knowing what I know from your videos I'd stay away from EMOTIVA as far as pre's go for now... I don't recall hearing about any latency sync problems with the Marantz pre...or any other pre for that mater. :)
Thanks for the info. I saw a video you did about separates. I have a Denon X4400h, with an Outlaw 5000. Im running a 7.4.4 system and I want to add front heights. As I need to add 2 channels what is the best way to start?. Do I need to buy a 13 channel receiver?
Thank you. The RMC-1 sounded great when it was working. I absolutely love the sound of my AV7705 and it has never had one hiccup. For 1/3 the cost and zero issues, my vote is the AV7705 any day. No I just received the monolith HTP-1 so I’m curious to see how it performs in comparison to my AV7705, especially since it has Dirac Live with Bass Control.
Hi all, I'm learning a lot about home theatre right now and this is probably a really dumb question. But how come the watts per channel are not listed anywhere on Emotiva's page? I'm thinking this must be different than a normal receiver or processor cause most of the ones I see have that listed
Watts are put out by your amplifier. This is a processor, so it has to be connected to a separate amplifier. The wattage will depend what type of amplifier you get.
I reviewed the MRX1120 at the same time as the Marantz SR8012. The Anthem had great channel separation but with the lack of AURO-3D, $500 more, required a computer to calibrate, no Airplay and the biggest issue for me was it sucked the life out of the bass in my room. After sending the ARC file to Anthem, and send it back to me, the Marantz SR8012 with Audyssey and Dynamic EQ did a much better job in my room. I would like to hear the AVM70 with the new ARC to see how it sounds in my room but have not heard back from Anthem in awhile.
It's now 1.5 years later and from what I can gather none of the advertised expansion modules to upgrade and expand the RMC-1 to its potential have ever materialized ?
@@Youthman That might be true, but as a customer I would feel cheated if one of the main selling points was the potential expandability, without that you might as well have gone for the RMC-1L. Have any/all the glitches you mentioned been fixed with firmware updates? (Big thank you for replying to my comment on an old video).
100% agree with you. We see this with a lot of brands. They release a product with the promise of future features. I would rather see them sell a product for what it has, not what it potentially could have.
How long ago did this processor come out?? Almost a year ago?? I know this is one owner’s experience, but it seems glitchy as hell! I would be, and this is just my opinion, very pissed to have spent that amount of $$$ for a half cooked (I might be exaggerating here) piece of electronics hoping for a firmware to come out and fix the bugs....I’ll keep my Denon 8500
According to the official owners thread at avsf, it was released November 18, 2018. It just seems long enough for Emotiva to get this thing more stable.....it’s just too much money to spend for an unpolished machine. I did consider for a while upgrading, but now I feel very confident I made the right choice staying w/the 8500. Maybe future models will be more reliable.
Great info. Emotiva needs step there game up or monoprice new processor gonna take them out I was gonna get the emotiva xmc-2 but after this video passing if the flagship having issues like this
Seems as tho the RMC units came out buggy. I’ve had my XMC-2 for a while now and love it. It trumps over the Denon 4700 and Marantz 7706 I had prior. The sound separation and clarity is incredible. Also, my sub came to life after running Dirac.
Do you have any experience with the Klipsch 3.1 sound bar and sub? 1066557 BAR 48” SOUND BAR. I have a small living room with catherdial ceilings. Also thinking about going with JBL JBLBAR51BLKAM 5.1. I'm thinking the Klipsch is pry better build.
Try reviewing a low level AVR to compare what you get for a few hundred dollars. Sony STR-DN1080 for example. It should be a stable AVR, but I didn't find a good review comparing it to high-end equipment.
@@Youthman , Thank you very much Sir ...... I'll go for Marantz only. ...... Your reviews are of great helps to me to pick up the right gears as well , help to learn many factors about ' Home Theater ' , settings. ... I'm from India. .....
Mr Youthman , Sir Sorry bothering you for one more advice please. ..... As I go for Marantz 8805 which has 13 channels, I have Sunfire TGA 7401 for 7 channels. ..... for the ' Atmos ' , can I go for Marantz MM 8077. ... !!! How good is this amplifier , please advise. .... Thanks a million Sir. .....
Hey youthman. I have a question about my receiver and faulty speaker. I have a blown right channel speaker that sounds fuzzy. Our receiver has been overheating a lot and I’m thinking it’s from the blown speaker. Do you think an internal issue with my right channel speaker is the cause of my receiver overheating?
hi i believe you have an emotiva rmc1 as well. I have no problems using my 4k apple tv, oppo 203, zidoo 1000 4k media player with it except for my ps4 pro. Everything gets picture immediately but not the ps4 pro, i have to switch input several times before ps4 handshakes with the sony projector. Also i use a 1.3 hdmi cable 10meters long which are made by QED and the other spare made by Chord. Do you have a similar problem if so how do i correct it? thanks!
Not a big deal with the remote in my opinion, I feel most people with a dedicated theater have a Harmony or similar device to control everything. My brother has an RMC-1 and has experienced very little issues with his and his 9.1.6 system. Running faster 2.1 HDMI cables seem to help speed these 4K processors a lot due to the amount of info you are sending down the line. Lol at the Monoprice, that unit has been pushed back so many times already and we have yet to see anything beyond vaporware.
Unfortunately Logitech does not have codes for the RMC-1. Monoprice told me a few weeks ago they have Dirac working currently and it will ship with Dirac. Will see if they are able to make it happen
@@Youthman You can use the XMC-1 codes for now. That is what my brother is using and it works 99% of the time until they upload their RMC codes. The one I'm interested in is the XMC-2. $1,000 less than the Monoprice and pretty much the same performance of the RMC-1.
That’s great that you will be able to provide a different experience. Out gear, cables and electronics are different but that’s real world what Emotiva has to build products for. I’m guessing they didn’t feel it was a bad unit or they would have sent a replacement. Looking forward to your review Shane.
Same here, haven't seen these issues with my experience with the RMC-1. Wonder if @youthman has something in the system chain that the RMC-1 doesn't like or weak HDMI cables.
I just ordered the marantz 8012 to upgrade from my 6011 any thoughts on the 8012 will be running the 5 main channels on a external amplifier the rest off of the 8012
@@Youthman I was going to do separates but I got this from my brother for 1500 with a transferable extended warranty he works at a stereo store so it is used but shouldn't be a problem just waiting for it to get here hope it's a upgrade from the 6011 it was good but was missing something especially with music
Thanks. I borrowed some lighting and a new camera that I was not familiar with so it definitely needs some tweaking. Future videos will be back to normal LOL
Sorry Not worth 5k. They skipped so many minor details and features that a $200 receiver has. Way too many software and hardware issues for that price range. The main attraction is the expansion ports 🤷🏾♂️ Something as simple as AirPlay or a decent GUI???? Come on. I hope they watch these reviews and make improvements.
That is alot of money to end up with a unit that should be perfect! To many glitches and this should have been taken care of before release! And for 5K I would want to see Auro 3D available especially since it is to have the capability of 28 channels. I will stick with Marantz!
@Nat N I think I will use the 8500 and set up for Auro compatibility and use the Auro upmixer as it seems to work very well. For most home sized rooms, it seems the benefit of more than 11 or 13 channels-is enough. I'm not there yet. I'm using a Yamaha 3700 with an extra 2 channel amp for a 7.2.4 set up.
@@Youthman I have gradually been adding equipment, I have quite a large room approx 40ft by 18 I have been glued to your reviews especially with the subs, at the moment I have just one Klipsch r120 sw which seems to be totally overwhelmed with what I have around it 2 x rp 800f , 1 x rp 504 -c & 6 x cdt 5850 heights, I'm convincing myself along with your reviews about a pair of pb16 ultras, & then there is the wife of course :)
There is no way this is worth the money their asking. but that's normal for this company. Their amps seem alright but they never can build a processor that doesn't have glitches. I will gladly keep my Marantz AV8805.Rock solid build quality, doesn't glitch also sounds great. I've owned it for over a year and never had any issues. Lets see this Emotive do that. not happening. Actually any Marantz or Yamaha Aventage would be a better product for your money than this headache.
Iv read on another forum the 8805 is unusually bright and harsh for a marantz compared to the older 8801, the guy mentioned he had tried b&w's as well as focals, i know focals can be a tad bright in the wrong room but.....
I had a Marantz SR8012 which was Fantastic in every way and recently upgraded to Marantz AV8805. As amazing as the SR8012 was, the AV8805 is just another animal and Noticeably better. Worth the $4500 without a question. Never ever had any problems and the built/sound quality is just ridiculously amazing.
Too many flaws for such an expensive unit..... This is my problem with Emotiva lately, they seem to be not paying attention to the details for Quality control. I would only consider buying Outlaw if i am on a budget.
I heard this Emotiva has way too many bugs therefore making it kind of a dealbreaker for me. That $5 grand can be spent on a better processors. That upcoming 16 channel processor from Lyngdorf looks really cool, my processor of choice if I was entering the world of separates.
Yeah, they are very buggy. My friend just returned his XMC-2 (same firmware as the RMC) in Jan 2021. He had the same issues and for $3000 it is just unacceptable so he returned it and got the Rotel. That Atmos explanation is complete bs also. Atmos sits on top of True-HD and not in it. If you know that your source is not touching the audio then it should absolutely say Atmos. My Marantz had a similar issue using the Fire Cube and Apple 4k because besides streaming from the internet (Prime and Netflix) they messed with the audio and the Marantz only read multi-channel in with Plex. Once I got the Nvidia Shield everything was perfect and the Marantz now reads Atmos and DTS:X. So if you are feeding off of a BDP then the Emotiva should absolutely say Atmos since it should be bitstream. I would recommend Emotive Amplifiers and Speakers any day, but when it comes to processing I would steer anybody to go with someone else. It is a real shame too because when it worked he said it sounded phenomenal even without DIRAC which he never used since he returned it. He is very happy with the Rotel.
@@Youthman it would be nice if.you get familiar, rew will calculate for you filters, and with only few of them you can get better with speaker response and not sovraequalize and reduce dynamic
Alessio Scoda I agree, it just takes time to learn and with so many products to review plus having a full-time job and a home business, it takes me a bit longer.
Cedia Expos. Monoprice introduces new product Monolith M-215 dual 15″ ported sub. It’s a monster coming out in Nov. I get a feelings you might upgrade your PB 16 Ultra. Hope you will a chance to review it.
Great review but that is way to many channels lol And like P Cs now seems that the Audio industry is starting just to throw products out the door and see if anyone wises up to the errors the products have .
I will hold on to my sony 1080 for a bit longer :( until l something comes out that just works, picking the perfect amp/receiver, for the right price, it's like really stressful, so you wait and wait another year, you think you found what you been looking for, and it's full of BUGS flip lol
The reason you have never seen me so critical is because all of the other products I have reviewed have worked as intended. I did not have any issues like this with the Denon 6400, Marantz SR8012, Marantz AV7705, or the Anthem MRX1120.
We have to be realistic a $5000 surround processor that has audio dropouts when playing newly released current format movies and does not have the ability to tell the owner its actually decoding Dolby Atmos must be viewed as seriously flawed. When I put on a Dolby Atmos movie I want to see the Dolby Atmos logo displayed. The double-talk Emotiva provides that it really is Dolby Atmos it just doesn't display the Dolby Atmos logos is typical of Emotiva Audio. If a $700 receiver can show me I'm playing Dolby Atmos then I expect a $5000 state of the art surround processor to provide that basic information. There's no reason at all a $5,000 surround processor should have drop outs. At least when I had my Oppo players if there were flaws Oppo acknowledged the flaws while they worked on fixes. It usually took five or six software upgrades but they eventually corrected the issues.That was annoying but they would eventually fix it. Youthman is very accurate in his reviews.The details he provides in his reviews is extensive. I tried the Emotiva xmc-1. I purchase the unit new with the 4k video board installed and I had multiple problems.This included dropouts, handshake issue, and a loss in the ability to switch between resolutions. I also loss the ability to change display colors. Last thing I agree with Youthman if Emotiva thought he received a defective unit they should have sent him another one. I thought Youthman bent over backwards providing positives of the RMC-1. I keep complimenting Youth man because I've read thousands of reviews since 1974 and his reviews are very accurate. Another outstanding reviewer is Zero Fidelity like Youthman he just calls it like it is. Hopefully Emotiva Audio will get the drop-out problem fixed.
Thank you for the kind words. Emotiva did send me the following email clarifying the front display so I was incorrect on the function of the two display lines. “Just one quick note, The TrueHD/Dolby Atmos readout on the front panel. Yes the TrueHD is the container for the Atmos but that top line is the output mode you are using, not the input signal. So we show the container but that top line is the unit showing you that you are outputting the Dolby Atmos surround format. Other manufactures just don't show the native container for Atmos and just say Atmos and leave out the rest.”
this what i love a bout you-tube, most people will have to suck it and see, and pay out money for something they don,t no anything about. so it takes people like your self who knows what they are talking about, to help us all from getting upset when something that is as mush use as a chocolate fire grad, so thank you Youthman have there been any updates, dates on it yet?? as it dos sound like its a lot software, problems, ?? thank for your video youthman, uk steven,
Nothing wrong with that. The point of the review is to provide as much information so you can make your own decision. There are two other content creators that I know that have not had the same experience I have so stay on the lookout for their review as well.
Nope not true if u using the same preset for like say bluray and tv and you adjust the trims for bluray them u switch over to the tv input the trims not gonna change I have the xmc1 that's how they work
Nice video Youthman. Emotiva has been using that metallized remote for a very long time and it's time to dump it IMO. I just got back from CEDIA, Arcam has 16CH of processing, with DIRAC working out of the box and it's $500 less than the RMC-1 with no slow boot up times or known audio dropouts. There are a lot of processors to choose from today at 11CH and beyond. Very exciting time to be in home theater!
Thanks Gene. I had the UMC-1 back in the day and it had the same style remote. 😀 Definitely some great innovation on the horizon.
@@Youthman the operating software seems to be what is causing some of the glitches noted and a review i saw elsewhere where there was too much waiting when making changes via the dial.
Gene what did you think of the new $6,000 Synthesis processor? Their demo room sounded like shit but not sure I'm blaming that on the processor.
@@Youthman CEDIA was overwhelming with new impressive products. Wish we could have teamed up man. Awesome stuff.
Emotiva has 15% now with the trade in of an old avr
Seems like a lot of glitches and shortcomings for a $5000 unit...
i know I'm kind of randomly asking but do anyone know of a good place to watch new series online?
This preamp is not ready for the public, sounds like they rushed to release of this unit. Even at 1500 I would not buy it with all of these problems, and yes they are big problems IMHO.
Great review, way too many problems for that price. Marantz or, maybe Monolith are still what I have on my radar for my next upgrade!
The Marantz 7706 is a solid processor. It’s reliable and user friendly. I replaced the 7706 with the XMC-2 and it’s night and day with sound quality. The emotiva XMC-2 blows it out if the water sonically. My unit hasn’t had any of the bugs mentioned. My friend ended up with the RMC1L and he’s experiencing tons of bugs. I think it’s the RMC and RMC1L processors that came out buggy. I only have 9 speakers and don’t plan on getting more than 11 for my current space. I have a 5.1.4 and it sounds incredible.
That trade in offer is looking real tempting!
Excellent review Michael. Your honesty will not only help consumers, but also the manufacturers. I'm sure they will be able to get the small quirks hammered out. For the money, you are absolutely correct, hard to beat this for 16/28 channels of processing!
Thanks Kyle
I love Emotiva for 2 channel but I will stick with my Marantz AVR for Atmos.
Yes the SR8012 and AV7705 have been rock solid so far.
Bro, you handled this like an ace. Such a great and honest review and I hope Emotiva can make improvements based on your experience. Thank you for the wealth of info and honesty in this review.
Thank you Ron. I believe it has the potential to be a great product.
For $5 Grand and you have these issues?... Come on Emotiva. Monoprice, here's your chance to take the value crown from Emotiva.
the more Boutique and expensive electronics are the more problems people seem to have with them, it's kind of the opposite of everything else.
@@Edward135i It's another 2 grand which I don't take lightly, but the new 6,000 dollar Synthesis processor from Harman is probably worth the step up if the Monoprice isn't great. Either way, Emotiva is a big NO.
@@commanderrussels2612 I can understand that, it's just kind of how super expensive electronics are, they always seem to have basic problems that either don't get resolved or are fixed very slowly. I think it has to do with the fact that emotiva will only sell a few hundred of these over the products life time and enthusiast don't complain like normies do when something doesn't work.
@@Edward135i The Harman stuff has a pretty good history. Like Gene said in another comment, about the Arcam (also a harman product), you can get the new Arcam AV45 or whatever it is called which has 16CH of processing, working DIRAC, all for less money. Emotiva amps are okay but their processors are shit. I do feel you though, I'm waiting for HDMI2.1 to come out to upgrade to a Denon with 9.x.6.
Commander Russels I agree, their processors are definitely lacking, I tried their XMC-1 and didn’t notice enough of a difference to keep it over my Yamaha AVR. However I’ve got some Gen 1 XPA-1’s and I’ve heard their newer Gen XPA amps, but I’m not as big a fan of them. There’s just something about the Gen 1’s, maybe it was them fighting and doing everything they could to put them on the map, but I just love them. Only my opinion!
Great video YM!
A bit disappointing to hear about the bugs but that’s par for the course with Emotiva. At least it sounds good!
Should be pointed out that the expansion boards do NOT equate to additional channels of discrete processing. Even the 28ch version will decode 9.1.6 Atmos and the extra channels can be used for speaker arrays, extra subwoofers etc. Still cool, but it won’t decode Atmos to 11.1.8 or 13.1.6 for example. That is still unique to Trinnov.
Good to know. I was thinking they were discrete
Man... I'm sorry I didn't write this sooner... But this is by and far and away the best review of this unit! And I really do mean that despite my snarky comments below. You're honest, you give good and bad, and I really appreciate your honesty here! I wrote this on another review... but I think that the points made are decent for this unit. Your review came out in September, and we are now just days away from November... Yet, I don't think that any points I make here are outdated still....
1) There is absolutely NO WAY, ZERO, to upgrade the unit to more than 16 channels, at this time, correct?
2) There is no way to have Bluetooth, Airplay, Cast, wifi configuration, internet radio, or other wireless or wired connectivity options, at this time, correct?
3) There is absolutely no difference between this unit for 5k, and the XMC-2 for 3k, except for the additional "expansion" ports and fully balanced connections on ALL 16 channels instead of just the front 3, correct? (They're charging 2k for a slightly bigger box and fully balanced)
4) Emotiva has a history of promising upgrades, but never actually delivering the upgrades. See XMC-1 upgrades, correct? (Specifically, they promised HDMI 2.0 when the XMC was introduced in 2014 but that upgrade wasn't released from Emotiva until 2018, and then, it was super buggy. YEARS after everyone else! And they promised Atmos support that was "coming soon" but never came out!)
5) All fully balanced, differential balanced audio outputs, coming from a digital source, is a gimmick, unless this unit in particular will produce noise / distortion within the unit, correct?
6) For 20 months that this product has been released to the public, DIRAC has been promised to be "coming soon"... Yet, it's still unavailable, correct?
7) There is absolutely no voice control options for Alexa, Google, or others, correct? For that matter, there is no future IMAX support for this too, correct?
8) The menu does run slowly, and that will never be speed up, correct?
9) It has an AES input (for a CD player to then use this as your dac) and balanced inputs (again to use for your dac), but no phono stage... that EVERYONE else has at this price point, correct? So using this as a pre-amp is out of the question is you use vinyl.
Summing up my points up, you're paying 2k more than their base unit, for fully balanced connections, (which shouldn't be needed if it's a properly engineered unit) and the ability to upgrade in the future. But after being out for nearly two years, there is not one, single, upgrade, available. Not one! I don't have experience with this unit in particular, but those, are, the, FACTS. Having said that, I believe you that the sound quality is awesome and better than anyone else in this space. But based on a number of sources, it is slow, it is buggy, there is no way to stream to it directly, it's absurd that it takes a minute to boot, and it costs more than most of their competitors. (My $1,300 computer boots in 7 seconds... this takes 90 seconds and costs 3.5x more?!?!)
In summing up your points, (with my added commentary) it drops audio in certain areas and can take up to 26 seconds for certain audio to start. Then 4 to 5 seconds for others. Dolby Atmos has output saying it's encoded in Dolby True HD. And while their explanation makes sense, based on what I know, it should be an Atmos signal... period. On a few occasions, there was no audio at all... This resulted in you powering the unit off, to wait another minute to let it power on again, to just play a movie. I can see this in a new feature, but have you EVER had an issue with a tech that's been out for 2 or 3 years that would require this? Then you talk about streaming, but there is absolutely no option for that. There is no Auro 3-d... which, I could care less about... Dirac live, despite being promised for almost two years now, will be available "soon". You have to upgrade, basically, a computer, using a USB drive.... because there are absolutely no other ways to connect this to the internet. The graphics aren't that hot in the config menu, which, also takes time to come up despite it's simplicity. The back is good. It can connect to what it should. :D I love the fact that you're not too concerned about balanced v. unbalanced connections. In most cases, it won't matter.... The remote is nice, but there is no backlight which is, I agree, a TOTAL pain! But, there are good features to the remote. As far as adjustments, who knows where they might be. And these issues can be resolved in the future, but for 5k it should, after 18 months of being the public, it should just work. And yes, the noise is distracting! And then the speed of the unit, it takes 90 seconds to boot. For 5k... My 1k computer takes 7 seconds. BUT, if you leave it on all the time, it turns on faster! (The HDMI stuff you talk about is common in my experience with everything.)
Okay... and here is where I get SUPER mad at you! (I am kidding!) "Michael, would you recommend the RMC-1?" And you say yes... But given it's issues and lack of features, can you really? There are no upgrade options, at all, that are available at this time, right? And you're right... To get 20 to 28 or more channels, you'll have to spend a LOT more... But this unit can't be upgraded to more than the native 16 channels at this time, right? And DIRAC live has been promised now since it was introduced in march or may of last year... yet, it's still not available. Airplay or other network techs have been promised as upgrades, but those too still aren't available, correct?
My hope, in pointing these things out to readers here and to you as a reviewer, is to call out Emotiva (which you did well here in a lot of ways) and say that this just isn't ready yet, especially for 5k. Yes, the sound quality is awesome! But given the lack of features, given the bugs, given the lack of actual upgrades at this point in time, given the fact that I can't play an Airplay song to this yet, it isn't worth it right now. And more importantly, you're asking more than Marantz, Anthem, Integra, Yamaha, Arcam, and others, who include a lot of these features and have a much better fit and finish. If this unit was perfect, if it had Dirac, Airplay, and worked flawlessly, I'd have no issue paying 5k for this. Especially considering potential upgrades. But at this time, with just promises from Emotiva.... I think that we should all call them out and say hey, it's not ready yet.... I can't upgrade it. And Emotiva, in my opinion, shouldn't ask 5k for a product that doesn't work great out of the box.
That's just my opinion... You did a great job on the video here and you pointed out the good and the bad.... I really want to love this thing.... I know it sounds awesome. But I think it should just work the right way. Right out of the box. Just my thoughts... Best to you Michael and keep up the good work!
Wow! You summed it up very concisely. My point in recommending it is was the fact that at the time of the video, to get 16 - 28 channels, you would have to spend 2-3X what the RMC-1 cost.
I share the good and bad and let the consumer decide if it’s right for them.
I chose to send the unit back and keep my Marantz AV7705 as it has worked flawlessly and sounds fantastic from the day I got it.
I’m curious to see how the Monolith HTP-1 will perform. If it sounds great, is bug free (or evening mostly bug free) and has Dirac Live, it will be a game changer.
Thank you for your comments.
My Marantz gets It's firmware updates automatically.
Delayed sound and having to manually update the Emotiva unit is enough of a negative for me to stay on the Marantz bandwagon!
Michael Barras my thoughts as well, plus no unbalanced inputs as well.
@@supernovamoore6175 Not sure what you mean about that, the RMC-1 has three RCA inputs on the back? You can see them quite clearly when he spins the unit around at 12:25
Alton, I believe he is referring to RCA outputs for each channel. The RMC-1 only has XLR outputs.Same for Sub outputs.
Youthman thanks that’s what I meant
Nat N yep but for 5 grand you should have both at least 2 for the subs
i have had the xmc-1 since 2016, i am currently really not ready for atmos, but i have never had a glitch or hiccup with my unit since i set it up in 2016, i am still very happy with my xmc-1's sound quality, with my set up is a 70 inch 4k hdr, oppo udp 205, crown xls2502 on front ch,annels powering klipsch rf7lll's, parasound hca 2003a 3 ch amp for center and surround channels powering 3 klipsch rp 280f's, a pair of psa v3600's for subwoofers, a ps3, a sansui tu-717 tuner, denon cassette, two tripplite lcr 2400's voltage regulators/ conditioners, 2 samson pro racks, zone two is powered by a emotiva gen one xpa-2 powering two pairs of mint condition realistic mach ones in dining room, i am waiting for the issues to be worked out with the rmc-1 before i move on to atmos, i may go demo the marantz av8805 as another option.
Looks like you already have a pretty killer set up Raymond
@@Youthman thanks, i watch your videos all the time
Thanks Raymond. Glad you’re enjoying the content
If someone don't know where to spend their lightly earned money Well, this is emotiva 👌😉
😀
Great unbiased review.I have an RMC and have experienced a few of your cons as well as many pros. The UMC sounded great but it was never truly ready ,The XMC was great for me once they made some firmware changes and they even pushed 4k through it before end of life. I want to give the Dirac a chance to spin up on this with a few more firmwares to make a final decision. The $4000- $6000 field will be very crowded and all of them will likely have some issues depending on who you are and whats important.
I can’t imagine the complexity of developing one of these processors.
Emotiva better get Dirac working before November when the Monolith HTP-1 releases, they confirmed at Cedia that it will be shipping with it. The home theater scene has been crazy this year, lots of awesome new products and even more on the horizon going into 2020~
Yes, Monolith told me they have Dirac currently working in their unit.
I freaking want one of these so BAD!!!. Now that DTS:X Pro is coming and the restrictions lifted from Dolby. Man oh man.
Time to see them hate comments. Other receivers may also display as TrueHD, just that all you have to do is to bypass the surround codec to get it. It probably shows both ATMOS and TrueHD to show that the signal is 'not that native atmos' and it is using the codec for atmos, since it is identifiable. Most, if not all processors, including receivers, do the same thing, only difference is the display. Wait Denon AV8805 and AV7705?! And good luck having a firmware update for your remote.
Great video I wonder how the arcam av860 would compare
That's why i got the Marantz AV8805. thanks for the review!
Sensible Software©
Excellent choice. I have one as well and it’s just ridiculously awesome in every way 👍🏻
@@ourlittlecakery9177 Thanks
Emotiva Has been a interesting company they use to have good products all around If you look at the new monolith AVR last I looked it is not for sale yet they are still waiting for the Dirac Live to be released for it, Emotiva should have done the same they release this and other AVR'S way to soon with a promise that has taken to long to get Looking forward to the Monolith and hope i have the funds to get it after it is released
On the remote, I really like clicky buttons because it gives tactile feedback which makes it clear if I pressed it or not. Might actually be annoying if you're pressing the remote a lot; although, my Harmony Elite remote has clicky buttons too, and I value knowing it understood a button press.
Even still, I'd be surprised if anyone actually used the remote with this unit. From what I've seen, people typically have an expensive Crestron system or use something cheaper like Logitech Harmony.
A lot of the issues you described seems pretty common with the RMC-1. You can read about these issues all over the user forums.
I chose not to frequent the Emotiva forums so that I would not be influenced by other’s experiences.
@@Youthman It seems hit or miss. Some people have this issue and some done. This is an awesome product and seems to be the best sounding of the big processors. They just need to get the bugs worked out. I had the feeling that they rushed this product to market.
My older denon avr 1910 will play a dolby atmos encoded disc but the base track is actually dolby truehd.
Micheal didn’t you know that Atmos is only metadata within TrueHD 😜 No offensive, love your work 🙏🏼
No offense taken. Actually I didn't realize that. I learn something new every day. ;) Here is a link for those interested - www.nakamichi-usa.com/the-ultimate-dolby-atmos-guide
True we learn something everyday 🙏🏼
Video: first 4 minutes "Sounds and looks great!" , next 21 minutes "Problem, problem, problem, problem, problem, problem." Come on Emotiva! You're breaking my heart! I have always been your champion but your new products across the board...... sigh.
Great review Youthman.
Thanks
Does this unit have any ability to store memory for presets or settings and then you can just click a button to go to those settings like the trim levels?
Also other than the three portsfor extra channels is there any other ability to upgrade this or are you pretty much stuck?
Wow! Excellent and detailed review. Thanks Youthman!
Thank you Rafael
I am quite happy with my AVR-X4400H and monolith 7X
Sounds like an awesome combination
Sounds like I should wait for the next generation on this one.
The most honest review yet, thanks!
I think it’s the only review yet 😂😂😂
I am in the market for a Dirac enabled processor. I have Emotiva amps and love them. But I have read nothing but issues with this unit. I can't seem to find Dirac on any mainstream AVP. I guess the cost of admission for the manufacturers is too high to justify implementation. I got the MiniDSP with Dirac for car audio and boy did it work wonders for car audio. Sure wish someone like Denon or Marantz or any other company would come out with a AVP that had Dirac.
It's a computer, that's a pro and a con, great for upgradeability and future development but not so good for reliability and speed of boot up and signal detection. Think for me a prefer something a little more solid and a little less glitchy like a purpose built pre/pro, not as flexible, but speedy and streamlined. Kinda surprized it's not conenctable to through a web gui, that's fairly standard these days for the higher end processors. (at least not that you mentioned)
What do you think about the Sony Muteki? What's your opinion about them?
Are they useful to start a small theater room?
I'm not familiar with the Muteki. There are much better speakers than Sony though.
hy 1 Year later is the Emotiva RMC-1 getting better or not? New Video would be great. thanks
I don’t own the RMC-1. It was sent for review and returned after using it for a few months. So I can’t tell you if they have worked out the bugs yet
Those expansion modules never came out, did they?
Great video but i feel at that price point there should no to very few bugs, this seems to me like a rushed product that needed some more time in the oven. Will you let us know on which amp you will be using for your home? Also, I have a great video suggestion, being that I am new this year to the home theatre I wanted to know at what price point should you consider going separates vs av receiver? For Example, If your speaker s are $2000 or below is it worth going separates? That would be a great video n when or if going seprates is worth the purchase. Anyway, just a suggestion but keep up the great content.
Thank you for the video suggestion Daryl.
Wow, those number of channels seem like overkill for home applications :-) And as such, I guess Emotiva probably wasn't pressured for a stable release. One thing with my current setup, I've been pleased that Denon's firmware updates all seem stable (my current firmware update for my OLED TV has proven to be buggy). Maybe Denon/Marantz offers this as they're more "mass produced". Also when it comes to displaying sound formats: that's another feature I like about my Denon: with the mobile app, you can easily see what the input format is and then the output (odd that the source audio would show Atmos and output TrueHD: Atmos is basically extra meta-data on top of a TrueHD core for discs and Dolby Digital+ for streaming). With the mobile remote app, I also use it more when watching content as it's really easy to access surround mode selection, subwoofer trim, and (most used) audio delay (some of my sources have lip sync issues at time: pointing the finger at Apple). I've got a standard 7.1.4 setup and have been impressed with how seamless the surround field is with 3-D audio and proper calibration. I've never been able to hear a native Auro-3D movie, but can cycle it for upmixing 5.1/7.1. It's a nice option: seems sometimes it places more emphasis overhead, even though it outputs 5 channel surround instead of 7 channel (and overall tonality and dynamics seem similar to Dolby's Surround). RE headphones: I'm a bit of an audiophile and have several expensive headphones. Even the expensive ones do have adapters for 1/4 inch to 3.5mm. There is a 3.5mm standard that's balanced (what most audiophiles are striving for now), except it's not as popular as 2.5 (now the popular mobile balanced setup). I've got a dedicated headphone amp that accepts unbalanced or balanced XLR. With my headphones, I have both unbalanced cables and balanced XLR ones. The headphone amp has outputs for unbalanced 1/4 and 3.5mm as well as XLR 4 pin and balanced 3.5mm. Headphone amp setup sounds great for music. When it comes to Dolby or DTS headphone, only time I've felt a sense of surround is when I've listened to dedicated headphone tracks (on the web). The best general purpose movie surround (from a matrix stereo for headphone) I've heard is a Sennheiser Dolby Pro Logic processor I got with a pair of headphones.
Yeah no, there are too many negatives with the RMC-1 to justify spending so much money and getting one.
I'll stick with Onkyo.
You bought this unit two years ago. Now that you have been using for a while, what is your take. Has Emotiva put the software update for room correction yet?
I am debating between Marrantz AV 8005 vs Emotiva RMC-1
I didn’t buy the unit. I review gear on my channel. This unit was returned so I am unsure if the issues have been resolved in the RMC-1.
I can say that I have had zero issues or bugs with my Marantz AV7706. Absolute rock solid performance and I use it 3-5 times a week.
Great review I like how you presented it as it is. First review I have seen of the rmc-1 that shows both positives and negatives. How do you like it compared to the marantz 8805? How about the anthem 60? Everyone seems to agree the rmc-1 sounds amazing.
Thank you. I have not heard the 8805 yet or the Anthem 60
Maybe I missed it but wondering what you thoughts are on the RMC-1 vs the Marantz AV7705. I too have the SR8012 and am currently considering separates. Also curious on your thoughts of the Emotiva 11 channel amp vs the monolith. Thanks. Loving the channel BTW.
Unfortunately the RMC-1 was way too buggy for me personally. I think it has great potential but in its current state, it wasn’t a good fit for me.
My SR8012 sounded great, and now my 7705 even better. Not to mention both work flawlessly
Is the center knob metal or plastic?
Sounds like a PITA pre.. even if this is YOUR unit....I'd be interested to know if EMOTIVA has fixed the latency problems. Odd they would give people a cheap looking remote. No backlit buttons? My old Pioneer Elite AVR...almost 10 years old has a few backlit buttons. Like the volume...and a few other key buttons. Knowing what I know from your videos I'd stay away from EMOTIVA as far as pre's go for now...
I don't recall hearing about any latency sync problems with the Marantz pre...or any other pre for that mater. :)
Unfortunately Emotiva has struggled over the years with their processors. I was really hoping this one would break the norm for them.
very well done review. nice unit but seems to me there are a few to many bugs. think i'll stick with my Denon 4400 and monolith7x
Sounds pretty buggy for $5k. Great review. Thank you.
Thanks for the info. I saw a video you did about separates. I have a Denon X4400h, with an Outlaw 5000. Im running a 7.4.4 system and I want to add front heights. As I need to add 2 channels what is the best way to start?. Do I need to buy a 13 channel receiver?
If people buy an Emotiva RMC-1 today, is it still buggy, or have some of the problems been resolved by firmware updates?
I haven’t heard.
Mr. YouthMan very excellent of your services sir.
Thank you
Welcome sir
I was watched continues Your all videos for developed audio sound system knowledge.
Which country sir
great review as usual. Your honesty always comes across. As far as sound quality goes, is the Marantz av7705 comparable?
Thank you. The RMC-1 sounded great when it was working. I absolutely love the sound of my AV7705 and it has never had one hiccup. For 1/3 the cost and zero issues, my vote is the AV7705 any day.
No I just received the monolith HTP-1 so I’m curious to see how it performs in comparison to my AV7705, especially since it has Dirac Live with Bass Control.
@@Youthman thank you very much for your reply. I will be watching for the HTP 1 review.
Glad to help
Great video, would love to see a review on an XMC-2 if you ever get ahold of one.
Hi all, I'm learning a lot about home theatre right now and this is probably a really dumb question. But how come the watts per channel are not listed anywhere on Emotiva's page? I'm thinking this must be different than a normal receiver or processor cause most of the ones I see have that listed
Watts are put out by your amplifier. This is a processor, so it has to be connected to a separate amplifier. The wattage will depend what type of amplifier you get.
What do you think about anthem 1120 and nad t778 what you suggest or emotiva rmc1. I am sad for marantz because their receivers have hidden display...
I reviewed the MRX1120 at the same time as the Marantz SR8012. The Anthem had great channel separation but with the lack of AURO-3D, $500 more, required a computer to calibrate, no Airplay and the biggest issue for me was it sucked the life out of the bass in my room. After sending the ARC file to Anthem, and send it back to me, the Marantz SR8012 with Audyssey and Dynamic EQ did a much better job in my room. I would like to hear the AVM70 with the new ARC to see how it sounds in my room but have not heard back from Anthem in awhile.
Sounds like yet another clunky processor from Emotiva....
For the audio problem, have you tried to exit separately with two hdmi, one for video and one for audio ?
No, I did t have to do that with the Marantz SR8012, AV7705 or my son’s Denon receiver
@@Youthman try with rmc if you can
It's now 1.5 years later and from what I can gather none of the advertised expansion modules to upgrade and expand the RMC-1 to its potential have ever materialized ?
Unfortunately processors have never been Emotiva’s specialty.
@@Youthman That might be true, but as a customer I would feel cheated if one of the main selling points was the potential expandability, without that you might as well have gone for the RMC-1L. Have any/all the glitches you mentioned been fixed with firmware updates? (Big thank you for replying to my comment on an old video).
100% agree with you. We see this with a lot of brands. They release a product with the promise of future features. I would rather see them sell a product for what it has, not what it potentially could have.
@@Youthman The Denon anniversary AVR would have been quite nice with Dirac live, but seems Denon/Maranz are married to Audyssey.
Changing from Audyssey to Dirac would likely incur a significant increase in cost to consumers
How long ago did this processor come out?? Almost a year ago?? I know this is one owner’s experience, but it seems glitchy as hell! I would be, and this is just my opinion, very pissed to have spent that amount of $$$ for a half cooked (I might be exaggerating here) piece of electronics hoping for a firmware to come out and fix the bugs....I’ll keep my Denon 8500
I’m not sure when exactly it was released. Within the past year, possibly the past 6 months
According to the official owners thread at avsf, it was released November 18, 2018. It just seems long enough for Emotiva to get this thing more stable.....it’s just too much money to spend for an unpolished machine. I did consider for a while upgrading, but now I feel very confident I made the right choice staying w/the 8500. Maybe future models will be more reliable.
Thanks for the honest review though!
Great info. Emotiva needs step there game up or monoprice new processor gonna take them out I was gonna get the emotiva xmc-2 but after this video passing if the flagship having issues like this
Seems as tho the RMC units came out buggy. I’ve had my XMC-2 for a while now and love it. It trumps over the Denon 4700 and Marantz 7706 I had prior. The sound separation and clarity is incredible. Also, my sub came to life after running Dirac.
Do you have any experience with the Klipsch 3.1 sound bar and sub? 1066557 BAR 48” SOUND BAR. I have a small living room with catherdial ceilings. Also thinking about going with JBL JBLBAR51BLKAM 5.1. I'm thinking the Klipsch is pry better build.
I have not heard their soundbars
Try reviewing a low level AVR to compare what you get for a few hundred dollars. Sony STR-DN1080 for example. It should be a stable AVR, but I didn't find a good review comparing it to high-end equipment.
Unfortunately Sony will not compare to high end AVR. They make excellent projectors and some of their TV’s but their receivers are not great
Which one is the Best. ....
Emotiva RMC 1
OR
Marantz AV 8805.
Please suggest. ...
The 8805 has been reviewed by many and is pretty solid, while the RMC-1 still has a lot of quirks and bugs to be worked out.
@@Youthman , Thank you very much Sir ...... I'll go for Marantz only. ......
Your reviews are of great helps to me to pick up the right gears as well , help to learn many factors about ' Home Theater ' , settings. ...
I'm from India. .....
Mr Youthman , Sir Sorry bothering you for one more advice please. .....
As I go for Marantz 8805 which has 13 channels, I have Sunfire TGA 7401 for 7 channels. ..... for the ' Atmos ' , can I go for Marantz MM 8077. ... !!! How good is this amplifier , please advise. .... Thanks a million Sir. .....
And where is nad t778 and anthem 1120 what do you think about them? Thanks in advance
I have not heard the Marantz amplifiers, but people that on them seem to really like them.
The sub woofer would be powered likely by a rack mounted amplifier that takes XLR.
There are a lot of powered subwoofers with XLR inputs.
@@vongdong10 for sure anyone spending 5 grand on a preamp is likely nursing XLR
Hey youthman. I have a question about my receiver and faulty speaker. I have a blown right channel speaker that sounds fuzzy. Our receiver has been overheating a lot and I’m thinking it’s from the blown speaker. Do you think an internal issue with my right channel speaker is the cause of my receiver overheating?
Unhook the right channel and see if it overheats. If not, your speaker is the cause
Yeah, too many issues for $5k.
Any chance to evaluate their MC 700?
Are you going to review the monoprice pre amp?
For sure
hi i believe you have an emotiva rmc1 as well. I have no problems using my 4k apple tv, oppo 203, zidoo 1000 4k media player with it except for my ps4 pro. Everything gets picture immediately but not the ps4 pro, i have to switch input several times before ps4 handshakes with the sony projector. Also i use a 1.3 hdmi cable 10meters long which are made by QED and the other spare made by Chord. Do you have a similar problem if so how do i correct it? thanks!
As mentioned in the video, I had many issues, one being audio dropouts. I no longer have the unit
@@Youthman Which one are you using presently?
Not a big deal with the remote in my opinion, I feel most people with a dedicated theater have a Harmony or similar device to control everything. My brother has an RMC-1 and has experienced very little issues with his and his 9.1.6 system. Running faster 2.1 HDMI cables seem to help speed these 4K processors a lot due to the amount of info you are sending down the line. Lol at the Monoprice, that unit has been pushed back so many times already and we have yet to see anything beyond vaporware.
Unfortunately Logitech does not have codes for the RMC-1.
Monoprice told me a few weeks ago they have Dirac working currently and it will ship with Dirac. Will see if they are able to make it happen
@@Youthman You can use the XMC-1 codes for now. That is what my brother is using and it works 99% of the time until they upload their RMC codes. The one I'm interested in is the XMC-2. $1,000 less than the Monoprice and pretty much the same performance of the RMC-1.
Seems like we're gonna have very different reviews 😉 Sucks you got a bad unit.
That’s great that you will be able to provide a different experience. Out gear, cables and electronics are different but that’s real world what Emotiva has to build products for. I’m guessing they didn’t feel it was a bad unit or they would have sent a replacement. Looking forward to your review Shane.
Same here, haven't seen these issues with my experience with the RMC-1. Wonder if @youthman has something in the system chain that the RMC-1 doesn't like or weak HDMI cables.
I just ordered the marantz 8012 to upgrade from my 6011 any thoughts on the 8012 will be running the 5 main channels on a external amplifier the rest off of the 8012
I love the SR8012. It’s a fantastic receiver and powered my 7.2.4 Klipsch system. I’m looking to upgrade to separates.
@@Youthman I was going to do separates but I got this from my brother for 1500 with a transferable extended warranty he works at a stereo store so it is used but shouldn't be a problem just waiting for it to get here hope it's a upgrade from the 6011 it was good but was missing something especially with music
@@Youthman I was looking at the Monoprice Monolith amps but a bit bummed they don't offer rack mount ears....
Grate review. Thanks. Don’t know what changed, but your video looks darker then before. Just FYI. 👍🏽
Thanks. I borrowed some lighting and a new camera that I was not familiar with so it definitely needs some tweaking. Future videos will be back to normal LOL
Sorry Not worth 5k. They skipped so many minor details and features that a $200 receiver has. Way too many software and hardware issues for that price range. The main attraction is the expansion ports 🤷🏾♂️
Something as simple as AirPlay or a decent GUI???? Come on.
I hope they watch these reviews and make improvements.
That is alot of money to end up with a unit that should be perfect! To many glitches and this should have been taken care of before release! And for 5K I would want to see Auro 3D available especially since it is to have the capability of 28 channels. I will stick with Marantz!
I think I'll get a Denon 8500 and call it a day.
@Nat N I think I will use the 8500 and set up for Auro compatibility and use the Auro upmixer as it seems to work very well. For most home sized rooms, it seems the benefit of more than 11 or 13 channels-is enough. I'm not there yet. I'm using a Yamaha 3700 with an extra 2 channel amp for a 7.2.4 set up.
Nat N Thanks for the tip. Yes, I have a shelf full of old receivers with pro logic. Wondering why I’ve kept them so long-now I know. Thanks again
thank you Youthman but I'll stick with my Marantz 7013
Marantz makes solid products.
@@Youthman I have gradually been adding equipment, I have quite a large room approx 40ft by 18 I have been glued to your reviews especially with the subs, at the moment I have just one Klipsch r120 sw which seems to be totally overwhelmed with what I have around it
2 x rp 800f , 1 x rp 504 -c & 6 x cdt 5850 heights, I'm convincing myself along with your reviews about a pair of pb16 ultras, & then there is the wife of course :)
There is no way this is worth the money their asking. but that's normal for this company. Their amps seem alright but they never can build a processor that doesn't have glitches. I will gladly keep my Marantz AV8805.Rock solid build quality, doesn't glitch also sounds great. I've owned it for over a year and never had any issues. Lets see this Emotive do that. not happening. Actually any Marantz or Yamaha Aventage would be a better product for your money than this headache.
I have been very pleased with my SR8012 and the AV7705. Curious how the 8805 compares
Iv read on another forum the 8805 is unusually bright and harsh for a marantz compared to the older 8801, the guy mentioned he had tried b&w's as well as focals, i know focals can be a tad bright in the wrong room but.....
@@stevenjacks3701 I have Definitive Technology BP7001SC, CLR3000 and BPVX and the AV8805 is not harsh or bright sounding in my room.
I had a Marantz SR8012 which was Fantastic in every way and recently upgraded to Marantz AV8805. As amazing as the SR8012 was, the AV8805 is just another animal and Noticeably better. Worth the $4500 without a question. Never ever had any problems and the built/sound quality is just ridiculously amazing.
Come on, metal remote controller is the Emotiva signature! 😩
Not everyone has good handwriting though lol
Too many flaws for such an expensive unit..... This is my problem with Emotiva lately, they seem to be not paying attention to the details for Quality control. I would only consider buying Outlaw if i am on a budget.
Can we expect a review of monoprices new pre amp processor???
Yes sir
that is good because I haven't picked out a processor yet and I am really hoping it is as good as everything else they sell!!!
I heard this Emotiva has way too many bugs therefore making it kind of a dealbreaker for me. That $5 grand can be spent on a better processors.
That upcoming 16 channel processor from Lyngdorf looks really cool, my processor of choice if I was entering the world of separates.
I saw that one on Amazon. I’m not familiar with that brand.
@@Youthman To be honest, me neither. I first heard of that brand last week ago, lol.
Yeah, they are very buggy. My friend just returned his XMC-2 (same firmware as the RMC) in Jan 2021. He had the same issues and for $3000 it is just unacceptable so he returned it and got the Rotel. That Atmos explanation is complete bs also. Atmos sits on top of True-HD and not in it. If you know that your source is not touching the audio then it should absolutely say Atmos. My Marantz had a similar issue using the Fire Cube and Apple 4k because besides streaming from the internet (Prime and Netflix) they messed with the audio and the Marantz only read multi-channel in with Plex. Once I got the Nvidia Shield everything was perfect and the Marantz now reads Atmos and DTS:X. So if you are feeding off of a BDP then the Emotiva should absolutely say Atmos since it should be bitstream. I would recommend Emotive Amplifiers and Speakers any day, but when it comes to processing I would steer anybody to go with someone else. It is a real shame too because when it worked he said it sounded phenomenal even without DIRAC which he never used since he returned it. He is very happy with the Rotel.
Have you tried parametric eq calculated with rew ?
I am not familiar enough with REW yet to have tested that feature
@@Youthman it would be nice if.you get familiar, rew will calculate for you filters, and with only few of them you can get better with speaker response and not sovraequalize and reduce dynamic
Alessio Scoda I agree, it just takes time to learn and with so many products to review plus having a full-time job and a home business, it takes me a bit longer.
@@Youthman just put it on your list. It let you to understand better toom behaviour in.bass region
Youthman please check out Spider far From Home. The Atmos track is SOUNDLICIOUS, It’s awesome 👏.
Thanks
It look hard set up. Lot a wire so hook up. You can add More.
Would you buy it for $2500?
Not unless they fixed the bugs.
Marantz 8805 all the way for the money £3500 money left for a decent blu-Ray player 👍
Cedia Expos. Monoprice introduces new product Monolith M-215 dual 15″ ported sub. It’s a monster coming out in Nov. I get a feelings you might upgrade your PB 16 Ultra. Hope you will a chance to review it.
Definitely a review but my next upgrade will likely be to (4) 18’s 😀
Great review but that is way to many channels lol
And like P Cs now seems that the Audio industry is starting just to throw products out the door and see
if anyone wises up to the errors the products have .
I will hold on to my sony 1080 for a bit longer :( until l something comes out that just works, picking the perfect amp/receiver, for the right price, it's like really stressful, so you wait and wait another year, you think you found what you been looking for, and it's full of BUGS flip lol
Damn, I don't think I have seen you be so critical of a product like this one. Is it really so cumbersome?
The reason you have never seen me so critical is because all of the other products I have reviewed have worked as intended. I did not have any issues like this with the Denon 6400, Marantz SR8012, Marantz AV7705, or the Anthem MRX1120.
Have u been in the Sun 🌞🌊🍸
No, but I did borrow a new camera and lighting to test out.
@@Youthman Yeah it looks like you have been in the sun too long and not as well lit up as usual IMO
Brett Spicer I only had one day to use it so it definitely could use some tweaking. Next video will be back to normal
👍
PS4 plays 4k Blu-ray discs and supports Atmos eh?? Hmmmm. Might need to check that Micheal...
PS4 Pro does 4K but not the standard PS4. Both can bitstream Atmos to your receiver.
@@Youthman PS4 Pro plays 4K Discs??? I was under the impression that it didn't have a 4K player. Only regular blu-ray discs
We have to be realistic a $5000 surround processor that has audio dropouts when playing newly released current format movies and does not have the ability to tell the owner its actually decoding Dolby Atmos must be viewed as seriously flawed. When I put on a Dolby Atmos movie I want to see the Dolby Atmos logo displayed. The double-talk Emotiva provides that it really is Dolby Atmos it just doesn't display the Dolby Atmos logos is typical of Emotiva Audio. If a $700 receiver can show me I'm playing Dolby Atmos then I expect a $5000 state of the art surround processor to provide that basic information. There's no reason at all a $5,000 surround processor should have drop outs. At least when I had my Oppo players if there were flaws Oppo acknowledged the flaws while they worked on fixes. It usually took five or six software upgrades but they eventually corrected the issues.That was annoying but they would eventually fix it.
Youthman is very accurate in his reviews.The details he provides in his reviews is extensive.
I tried the Emotiva xmc-1. I purchase the unit new with the 4k video board installed and I had multiple problems.This included dropouts, handshake issue, and a loss in the ability to switch between resolutions. I also loss the ability to change display colors.
Last thing I agree with Youthman if Emotiva thought he received a defective unit they should have sent him another one. I thought Youthman bent over backwards providing positives of the RMC-1. I keep complimenting Youth man because I've read thousands of reviews since 1974 and his reviews are very accurate. Another outstanding reviewer is
Zero Fidelity like Youthman he just calls it like it is. Hopefully Emotiva Audio will get the drop-out problem fixed.
Thank you for the kind words.
Emotiva did send me the following email clarifying the front display so I was incorrect on the function of the two display lines.
“Just one quick note, The TrueHD/Dolby Atmos readout on the front panel. Yes the TrueHD is the container for the Atmos but that top line is the output mode you are using, not the input signal. So we show the container but that top line is the unit showing you that you are outputting the Dolby Atmos surround format. Other manufactures just don't show the native container for Atmos and just say Atmos and leave out the rest.”
wow bitter sweet but that's super disappointing especially when you spend that much money for a premium product that's $5000 .. great review thought
Thank you
this what i love a bout you-tube, most people will have to suck it and see, and pay out money for something they don,t no anything about. so it takes people like your self who knows what they are talking about, to help us all from getting upset when something that is as mush use as a chocolate fire grad, so thank you Youthman have there been any updates, dates on it yet?? as it dos sound like its a lot software, problems, ?? thank for your video youthman, uk steven,
Glad you are finding value in my content. ;)
I think it is worth $5000
You are in luck, it’s now $4999.99
Too many issues! I am going to stick with Rotel amps and 8K series Marantz Processor
Nice review but I disagree with the conclusions, not worth the money with all those issues
Nothing wrong with that. The point of the review is to provide as much information so you can make your own decision. There are two other content creators that I know that have not had the same experience I have so stay on the lookout for their review as well.
Nope not true if u using the same preset for like say bluray and tv and you adjust the trims for bluray them u switch over to the tv input the trims not gonna change I have the xmc1 that's how they work