I have been running the RMC 1- L for about 6 months. Still trying to get firmware to update after several attempts. Overall I am staying with this unit simply due to sound quality for stereo music (and assuming I can get firmware updated). I too experience occasional pops in my speakers and when streaming - the initial second or two of a song sometimes is chopped. A restart of song corrects the issue. HDMI, other digital and analog switching though slow is accurate. The OSD is very antiquated but very easy to learn and use. Although sound is GREAT these bugs and needed updates need to be worked out by Emotiva or I will move on from Emotiva.
Great questions. If you know what an AV Receiver is, an AV Processor is an AV Receiver without any built-in amplifiers. You will need to add external amplifiers. Some can an AV Processor and Pre-Pro (Pre-amp Processor). Balanced vs. Unbalanced - Unbalanced connections are the most common in home audio. Unbalanced is a two-connector cable. Those cables often have RCA terminations, but can also use phono plug connectors. If you look at an AV Receiver, you will see mostly unbalanced RCA connections which some call "single-ended" as the return path is to ground. Balanced connections are the most common in professional audio and uses three conductors instead of two. The extra wire carries a ground signal and the other two contain the audio signal sent in opposite phase. This makes it possible to cancel out an noise added from point to point making it a much better choice for long cable runs where noise can be an issue. For short cable runs, unbalanced cable can be sufficient as the noise may not be perceptible. Balanced cables are usually terminated with XLR type connectors. -Jon
I believe you can adjust the Fc, Gain and Q for each speaker. The manual states “if you select EQ Test, this allows you to redo the EQ measurements completely or view and make manual corrections to the EQ filters applied by Emo-Q per speaker.” and “As you make adjustments to your Emo-Q filters, you will see any changes made to the Fc, Gain, and Q reflected in the graphical representation of your Emo-Q filter in real-time. Jon
Yes - I believe so with adjustments for Frequency, Gain and Q. The manual says: "If you select EQ Test, this allows you to redo the EQ measurements completely or view and make manual corrections to the EQ filters applied by Emo-Q per each speaker." and "As you make adjustments to your Emo-Q filters, you will see any changes made to the Fc, Gain, and Q reflected in the graphical representation of your Emo-Q filter in real-time." -Jon
Read on Audio Science Reviews that the Emotiva BasX MC1 can't do Hires Files like 96khz & 192khz it down samples them to 48khz So maybe it's the same with their new AV Receivers BasX MR1 & MR1L
That is helpful information. Whatever is true for the MC1 is true for the MR1 and MR1L - they are all based on the same processor section as told to me directly by an Emotiva representative-Jon
I purchased the MR1L and communicated with Emotiva about this and they said "Pure Mode, with an ANALOG input, the audio is passed through WITHOUT being converted into digital". Unfortunately this also disables subwoofer LFE output signal but main speakers get the unprocessed hires audio signal
I purchased the MR1L on the Super Bowl special. Couldn't be happier! It really woke up my tower speakers and sounds great! And, it's just complicated enough that my wife won't touch it. :)
Thanks for your review and information on their receivers, I was having a hard time finding detailed specs on their equipment. I'm very curious about the difference between the dac chips they use. Honestly how much audible difference can there be between their AKM and CIRRUS chips? I was so close to pulling the trigger on one of their receivers, but the lack of a headphone jack was a deal breaker. I work 2nd shift and get home late at night and need to listen to music on headphones. Thanks.
Headphones still have their role and for me Bluetooth is no substitute connection for critical listening. Beyond the wireless aspect, Bluetooth is not easier as connection as often fussy to connect and disconnect. With a wire it is simple, quick and always what you expect. -Jon
Hi Jon, I was wondering what happened to you. I have not seen any of your videos for months. But I'm glad to see you still on. I have the RMC1L, once in awhile I have to unplug it to reset it. Do you have that problem, with your RMC 1?
Glad we can reconnect. I have continued to produce weekly videos so I wonder why they are now reaching you. Are you subscribed? If not, that should help. I do need to occasionally reboot. I also experience some popping when changing sources but otherwise running okay. So not perfect. I will get the plus version upgrade when it come available - my guess it won’t be this year as previously communicated by Emotiva. Hopefully early next year. I have now reviewed a lot of receivers and processors and still haven’t found anything that is perfect. I’ll keep looking. -Jon
I have the MR1 and it's absolutely amazing connected to the klipsch RP series speakers and 2-R-12SW. I'm going to upgrade the subwoofers to something more powerful but it's absolutely amazing sounding.
I reviewed the newer Onkyo models (TX-RZ50 and TX-RZ70) and they place 2 fans on top of the HDMI boards. I suspect they are aware of their thermal issues. The fans how medium noise and are a bit auditable at times. They will come on if you raise volume above 60. The algorithm appears to be based on volume and not entirely on measured temperature. -Jon
That is a commonly held assessment of the Emotiva offerings. I am doing okay with their RMC-1, but it is not without a few issues and feature gaps. -Jon
This particular line (NOT the basx amps) is the most pointless set of AV equipment released by emotiva. You have D&M, Yamaha and Onkyo with products that are cheaper or the same price with better internals and 3x the features. I honestly can't see the point in this line. They are 10 years out of date on release date.🤷🏾♂️
Features - no question these models are easy to beat. Price for this channel count the list gets smaller. For example the Marantz Cinema 50 =$2,500 matches 9 amps within the Emotiva MR1L = $1,599. I steps through Onkyo TX-RZ50 at the same price (often less) and you are clearly right about the better price options with more features. I say the final element that Emotiva needs to deliver on is sound quality. If we put these BasX models head-to-head with others and it doesn’t outperform with the sonic experience, they will need to make some changes for sure. I need to make that comparison to really know. -Jon
@@ripewave indeed, sound quality seems the selling point here. If dac and preamp quality of the bas X models is competitive with the 4000,- receiver models of the competition, you can invest in decent amplifiers and live with the missing features for the most part. I'd like to see a comparison against the onkyo rz50 and probably the denon 4800h as well as a receiver in the 4000,- range. ($ or €)
Thank Jon, my Marantz SR-7011 hdmi board just died today so need get a new receiver and I came across your review. Obviously, I trust your opinion thanks for putting this out there.
Emotiva was supposed to release a hdmi 2.1 upgraded board for the MR1 receiver last summer. I've been waiting and it's the main reason why I purchased the MR1.
It will be interest to see what features get added to the upcoming Emotiva RMC-1 Plus, RMC-1L Plus models. They are claiming HDMI 2.1 is coming along with streaming software features. I don't expect a HDMI port or mobile app. -Jon
I was thinking about replacing my Marantz sr5015 avr for an mR1L av but then saw the mc1. I have inwalls and in ceiling speakers. Just wanted to konw if the Mc1 would be good enough or should i go mR1L ?
If you just need a processor, the MC1 can process signals for up to 13 speakers but you'll need amplifiers. The MR1 and MR1L are AV Receivers so they do the processing and have built-in amplifiers to power your speakers. You just have to pick the one that has enough speaker channels for your needs or add amplifiers as needed.
@@Gomez561 I do have the a5 amplifier as well. So I running a 5.2.1 set up. In my case I’m practically replacing an AvR for a processor. Wondering if that would end up being the better play.
If you have external amps already, the the MR1L and MR1 will have the same processor section as the MC1. Only get the MR1 or MR1L if you need the amps. The step up from the MC1 is the Emotiva XMC-2 which provides upgraded DACS, 16 channels of processing and Dirac Live vs EmoQ in the BasX range. -Jon
The fact that after all these years these companies are pushing out the same boxes and not modernizing them is shameful! They took on Apples model, get loyal fans, then give them little incremental upgrades. Arcam,Anthem & NAD... I applaud you!!
thank you very helpful! unless i missed something the rmc-1/rmc-1l seem to be exactly the same ? so what are you getting for the extra $550 that needs 2 more inches in height and weighs 2 lbs ?
You are correct they are exactly the same - except for one feature. The RMC-1 is expandable using modules. currently only two type of expansion modules are available - a MM/MC phono module and a balanced input module. Output modules were planned but the architecture does not seem to support more channels so they will introduce a plus version with new hardware which is more capable. -Jon
Sorry you felt that way. My intent was to be able to provide my perspective on these new models. I have brought in a lot of AV Receivers and AV Processors this year, but have yet to review these Emotiva models inhouse. I need to reach out to them again as they said they would support my efforts. -Jon
For those who wonder what the upgraded RMC-1 Plus will include, here what Emotiva says about it; "We are deep into the development of the next generation of our world class processor line. The core of which is based on a lightning fast, Linux based OS with 10X the power and speed of the previous generations. This also brings gigabit ethernet and integrated WiFi as well as a modern, web based GUI setup and control system that will run on any phone, tablet or computer. Add to that a whole new HDMI system that has 8K, 2.1 on all inputs and outputs, the latest and greatest Dolby Atmos, all new DTS-X Pro and IMAX audio and video. We have also upgraded the already spectacular audio sub-system, and to top it all off, a whole new higher output power supply."
While DTS:X pro is only seen on competing brands top models (if at all), Auro-3D is cropping up in more places with a strong following. Could be an issue for the brands yet to commit to Auro-3D somewhere in their portfolios. -Jon
@@ripewave I just want the Auro upmixer. Hopefully Emotiva's next model will come with DTS:X-Pro out of the box. When big box receivers like Denon, Marantz and Sony can do Pro, there's no excuse for a premium preamp to not have it.
@@FURognar Anthem needs that message as well - their AVM 90 sells for $7,500 and no Auro-3D and no DTS:x Pro. Marantz hasn’t included DTS:X Pro on their new models except for the AV10 at $7000 level. Sony STR-AZ7000ES May be the most affordable model with DTS:x Pro at $3,300. That format doesn’t come cheap. Very odd. -Jon
@@ripewave the new Marantz doesnt need Pro until the Cinema 30 comes out with 13.4 channel processing. Same for Denon. Their A1H has it, but their other models dont need it till they release a 13.4 channel X6800H. I'm planning to buy a X6700 because I only need 13 channels and $6500 is double what I'm willing to pay. Will also consider the Sony 7000ES because it too is 13.2 channels and has DTS:X-Pro. No Auro3D, but their proprietary 360 Spatial Sound Mapping had an upmixer built in that might rival what Auromatic can do. If the 360SSM setting works for that, I dont need Auro3D for my upmixer.
I have been running the RMC 1- L for about 6 months. Still trying to get firmware to update after several attempts. Overall I am staying with this unit simply due to sound quality for stereo music (and assuming I can get firmware updated). I too experience occasional pops in my speakers and when streaming - the initial second or two of a song sometimes is chopped. A restart of song corrects the issue. HDMI, other digital and analog switching though slow is accurate. The OSD is very antiquated but very easy to learn and use. Although sound is GREAT these bugs and needed updates need to be worked out by Emotiva or I will move on from Emotiva.
That is a fair assessment. Have you been able to update the firmware? -Jon
What's a processor? What's balanced and unbalanced?
Great questions. If you know what an AV Receiver is, an AV Processor is an AV Receiver without any built-in amplifiers. You will need to add external amplifiers. Some can an AV Processor and Pre-Pro (Pre-amp Processor).
Balanced vs. Unbalanced - Unbalanced connections are the most common in home audio. Unbalanced is a two-connector cable. Those cables often have RCA terminations, but can also use phono plug connectors. If you look at an AV Receiver, you will see mostly unbalanced RCA connections which some call "single-ended" as the return path is to ground. Balanced connections are the most common in professional audio and uses three conductors instead of two. The extra wire carries a ground signal and the other two contain the audio signal sent in opposite phase. This makes it possible to cancel out an noise added from point to point making it a much better choice for long cable runs where noise can be an issue. For short cable runs, unbalanced cable can be sufficient as the noise may not be perceptible. Balanced cables are usually terminated with XLR type connectors.
-Jon
Do any of these allow PEQ for all individual channels?? I know I saw some with L/R and some other pairs together.
I believe you can adjust the Fc, Gain and Q for each speaker. The manual states “if you select EQ Test, this allows you to redo the EQ measurements completely or view and make manual corrections to the EQ filters applied by Emo-Q per speaker.” and “As you make adjustments to your Emo-Q filters, you will see any changes made to the Fc, Gain, and Q reflected in the graphical representation of your Emo-Q filter in real-time.
Jon
Yes - I believe so with adjustments for Frequency, Gain and Q. The manual says: "If you select EQ Test, this allows you to redo the EQ measurements completely or view and make manual corrections to the EQ filters applied by Emo-Q per each speaker." and "As you make adjustments to your Emo-Q filters, you will see any changes made to the Fc, Gain, and Q reflected in the graphical representation of your Emo-Q filter in real-time." -Jon
If anyone is still interested Emotiva is having a 25% off Super Bowl sale on their processors and receivers. That lowers the MR1L to $1199.
Thanks for raising attention on this sale - I was not aware. -Jon
Read on Audio Science Reviews that the Emotiva BasX MC1 can't do Hires Files like 96khz & 192khz it down samples them to 48khz
So maybe it's the same with their new AV Receivers BasX MR1 & MR1L
That is helpful information. Whatever is true for the MC1 is true for the MR1 and MR1L - they are all based on the same processor section as told to me directly by an Emotiva representative-Jon
I purchased the MR1L and communicated with Emotiva about this and they said "Pure Mode, with an ANALOG input, the audio is passed through WITHOUT being converted into digital". Unfortunately this also disables subwoofer LFE output signal but main speakers get the unprocessed hires audio signal
I purchased the MR1L on the Super Bowl special. Couldn't be happier! It really woke up my tower speakers and sounds great! And, it's just complicated enough that my wife won't touch it. :)
Thanks for your review and information on their receivers, I was having a hard time finding detailed specs on their equipment.
I'm very curious about the difference between the dac chips they use. Honestly how much audible difference can there be between their AKM and CIRRUS chips?
I was so close to pulling the trigger on one of their receivers, but the lack of a headphone jack was a deal breaker. I work 2nd shift and get home late at night and need to listen to music on headphones.
Thanks.
Headphones still have their role and for me Bluetooth is no substitute connection for critical listening. Beyond the wireless aspect, Bluetooth is not easier as connection as often fussy to connect and disconnect. With a wire it is simple, quick and always what you expect. -Jon
Hi Jon, I was wondering what happened to you. I have not seen any of your videos for months. But I'm glad to see you still on. I have the RMC1L, once in awhile I have to unplug it to reset it. Do you have that problem, with your RMC 1?
Glad we can reconnect. I have continued to produce weekly videos so I wonder why they are now reaching you. Are you subscribed? If not, that should help. I do need to occasionally reboot. I also experience some popping when changing sources but otherwise running okay. So not perfect. I will get the plus version upgrade when it come available - my guess it won’t be this year as previously communicated by Emotiva. Hopefully early next year. I have now reviewed a lot of receivers and processors and still haven’t found anything that is perfect. I’ll keep looking. -Jon
I have the MR1 and it's absolutely amazing connected to the klipsch RP series speakers and 2-R-12SW. I'm going to upgrade the subwoofers to something more powerful but it's absolutely amazing sounding.
Switching from years of Onkyo heat/HDMI board failures.
I reviewed the newer Onkyo models (TX-RZ50 and TX-RZ70) and they place 2 fans on top of the HDMI boards. I suspect they are aware of their thermal issues. The fans how medium noise and are a bit auditable at times. They will come on if you raise volume above 60. The algorithm appears to be based on volume and not entirely on measured temperature. -Jon
Buy Emotiva amps, but run far, far away from all of their processors.
That is a commonly held assessment of the Emotiva offerings. I am doing okay with their RMC-1, but it is not without a few issues and feature gaps. -Jon
This particular line (NOT the basx amps) is the most pointless set of AV equipment released by emotiva. You have D&M, Yamaha and Onkyo with products that are cheaper or the same price with better internals and 3x the features.
I honestly can't see the point in this line. They are 10 years out of date on release date.🤷🏾♂️
Features - no question these models are easy to beat.
Price for this channel count the list gets smaller. For example the Marantz Cinema 50 =$2,500 matches 9 amps within the Emotiva MR1L = $1,599. I steps through Onkyo TX-RZ50 at the same price (often less) and you are clearly right about the better price options with more features.
I say the final element that Emotiva needs to deliver on is sound quality. If we put these BasX models head-to-head with others and it doesn’t outperform with the sonic experience, they will need to make some changes for sure. I need to make that comparison to really know. -Jon
@@ripewave indeed, sound quality seems the selling point here. If dac and preamp quality of the bas X models is competitive with the 4000,- receiver models of the competition, you can invest in decent amplifiers and live with the missing features for the most part. I'd like to see a comparison against the onkyo rz50 and probably the denon 4800h as well as a receiver in the 4000,- range. ($ or €)
Thank Jon, my Marantz SR-7011 hdmi board just died today so need get a new receiver and I came across your review. Obviously, I trust your opinion thanks for putting this out there.
Hey - I know a Cilluffo from high school - good friend, any chance? Either way glad the video helped. Let me know. -Jon
Emotiva was supposed to release a hdmi 2.1 upgraded board for the MR1 receiver last summer. I've been waiting and it's the main reason why I purchased the MR1.
I feel it is better to select for what is available. Hard to know when something roadmapped will actually release. -Jon
no HDMI 2.1 no BT, No app config software no front hdmi port, tons of missing features they continue to not develop. So again another pass from me.
It will be interest to see what features get added to the upcoming Emotiva RMC-1 Plus, RMC-1L Plus models. They are claiming HDMI 2.1 is coming along with streaming software features. I don't expect a HDMI port or mobile app. -Jon
Does A8A better than Rmc1 ?
Same question A8A as a preamp vs Rmc1?
Yes, the A8A does sound better then the RMC-1 (slightly). That assessment was only conducted with the A8A running as a preamp. -Jon
I was thinking about replacing my Marantz sr5015 avr for an mR1L av but then saw the mc1. I have inwalls and in ceiling speakers. Just wanted to konw if the Mc1 would be good enough or should i go mR1L ?
If you just need a processor, the MC1 can process signals for up to 13 speakers but you'll need amplifiers. The MR1 and MR1L are AV Receivers so they do the processing and have built-in amplifiers to power your speakers. You just have to pick the one that has enough speaker channels for your needs or add amplifiers as needed.
@@Gomez561 I do have the a5 amplifier as well. So I running a 5.2.1 set up. In my case I’m practically replacing an AvR for a processor. Wondering if that would end up being the better play.
If you have external amps already, the the MR1L and MR1 will have the same processor section as the MC1. Only get the MR1 or MR1L if you need the amps. The step up from the MC1 is the Emotiva XMC-2 which provides upgraded DACS, 16 channels of processing and Dirac Live vs EmoQ in the BasX range. -Jon
The fact that after all these years these companies are pushing out the same boxes and not modernizing them is shameful! They took on Apples model, get loyal fans, then give them little incremental upgrades. Arcam,Anthem & NAD... I applaud you!!
thank you very helpful!
unless i missed something the rmc-1/rmc-1l seem to be exactly the same ? so what are you getting for the extra $550 that needs 2 more inches in height and weighs 2 lbs ?
You are correct they are exactly the same - except for one feature. The RMC-1 is expandable using modules. currently only two type of expansion modules are available - a MM/MC phono module and a balanced input module. Output modules were planned but the architecture does not seem to support more channels so they will introduce a plus version with new hardware which is more capable. -Jon
@@ripewave thank you
Hello...thanks for the video..... watching from Uganda Africa where such tech things are myth
Glad you are able to watch this video from Uganda. Wish you had more access to these product there. -Jon
Just gotten mc1 it's nice thanks for your reviews........
Why would you waste my time with this video when haven't even seen a MR1L?
Sorry you felt that way. My intent was to be able to provide my perspective on these new models. I have brought in a lot of AV Receivers and AV Processors this year, but have yet to review these Emotiva models inhouse. I need to reach out to them again as they said they would support my efforts. -Jon
Jon, I appreciate your thorough reviews. You have never wasted my time.
For those who wonder what the upgraded RMC-1 Plus will include, here what Emotiva says about it; "We are deep into the development of the next generation of our world class processor line. The core of which is based on a lightning fast, Linux based OS with 10X the power and speed of the previous generations. This also brings gigabit ethernet and integrated WiFi as well as a modern, web based GUI setup and control system that will run on any phone, tablet or computer. Add to that a whole new HDMI system that has 8K, 2.1 on all inputs and outputs, the latest and greatest Dolby Atmos, all new DTS-X Pro and IMAX audio and video. We have also upgraded the already spectacular audio sub-system, and to top it all off, a whole new higher output power supply."
do you have a link to this ?
@@hermangaviria690 Emotiva website news section if i remember correctly
@@hermangaviria690 ua-cam.com/video/aZrbN1F_150/v-deo.html
@@hermangaviria690 Actually a more recent update; ua-cam.com/video/rJPCjmUMNNY/v-deo.html
Haven't watched it yet...
No ethernet input?
That will change in coming hardware updates for the RMC-1 series. I wonder if they will do the same for this MC1 series. -Jon
No DTS:X-Pro and no Auro3D, thats gonna be a no from me dawg.
While DTS:X pro is only seen on competing brands top models (if at all), Auro-3D is cropping up in more places with a strong following. Could be an issue for the brands yet to commit to Auro-3D somewhere in their portfolios. -Jon
@@ripewave I just want the Auro upmixer.
Hopefully Emotiva's next model will come with DTS:X-Pro out of the box. When big box receivers like Denon, Marantz and Sony can do Pro, there's no excuse for a premium preamp to not have it.
@@FURognar Anthem needs that message as well - their AVM 90 sells for $7,500 and no Auro-3D and no DTS:x Pro. Marantz hasn’t included DTS:X Pro on their new models except for the AV10 at $7000 level. Sony STR-AZ7000ES May be the most affordable model with DTS:x Pro at $3,300. That format doesn’t come cheap. Very odd. -Jon
@@ripewave the new Marantz doesnt need Pro until the Cinema 30 comes out with 13.4 channel processing. Same for Denon. Their A1H has it, but their other models dont need it till they release a 13.4 channel X6800H.
I'm planning to buy a X6700 because I only need 13 channels and $6500 is double what I'm willing to pay. Will also consider the Sony 7000ES because it too is 13.2 channels and has DTS:X-Pro. No Auro3D, but their proprietary 360 Spatial Sound Mapping had an upmixer built in that might rival what Auromatic can do. If the 360SSM setting works for that, I dont need Auro3D for my upmixer.
Hey Jon....any news on the RMC 1 & RMC-1L + boxes ie availability and price