My new pre-amp = Integra DTC 9.8

[IceNine]

Well, I finally put in my order for a new pre-amp. I decided that it was time to upgrade from my tried and true (ultra high-end) Enlightened Audio Designs Theatermaster Signature. I was going to purchase a new Krell pre-amp, but then I read about the new Integra DTC 9.8 and decided to go for it. It is a LOT cheaper and looks pretty good, so I figured "what the hell."

I have high hopes for the Integra, but I wonder how the sound quality will compare to the EAD. It is strange going from a $7,000 pre-amp to a $1,600 pre-amp, so I am curious how it will sound in my setup. I am still going to be using the Enlightened Audio Designs Powermaster 2000 power amplifier, so I will definitely know if the sound is a lot different from the new pre-amp.


I'll post a review of it when it arrives. I have sent quote requests to 8 local installers and am awaiting final bids from everyone. I hope to have this thing soon.

[IceNine]

Does anyone here have one of these? If so, what is your opinion of it?

[Arkadin]

So far during the time I have been on this forum, this type of high-end equipment has rarely if ever been discussed. However, this forum (home theater) seems to be definitely growing lately so maybe these types of components will begin to get a little more play. It will take time for sure. btw, if you need a home for your "old" pre-amp give a holler!

[IceNine]

So far during the time I have been on this forum, this type of high-end equipment has rarely if ever been discussed. However, this forum (home theater) seems to be definitely growing lately so maybe these types of components will begin to get a little more play. It will take time for sure. btw, if you need a home for your "old" pre-amp give a holler!

I might very well sell it... it is the black version of the Theatermaster Signature, not the silver.

I also have a TheaterVision P that I would be willing to part with if you need one.


The original price on the processor was around $7,000 and the DVD player was around $3,500 or thereabouts... God, when you look back at the money spent.

I figured I would give a lower-priced piece a shot and see how it goes. I have heard good things about Integra, so I decided to get one. I hope it compares well with the sound quality of the EAD. If the sound quality is as good as I hope, I will be a convert FROM high-end to regular equipment.

[IceNine]

It looks like the delivery time is going to be 3 to 4 weeks, so it will be a while.

[IceNine]

Update: I found an installer with one in stock, so I should be able to pick it up tomorrow!


***I am, of course, talking to myself here.***

[IceNine]

***Still talking to myself***

I am picking the unit up in 45 minutes!

[IceNine]

I now have the processor in hand!

Unpacking:

[Willbean]

Where did you order the Integra from????? I've been ripping my hair out to find one.

[IceNine]

Where did you order the Integra from????? I've been ripping my hair out to find one.

I got it from a local custom installer. He was the only one in town that had one in stock. My best second source was about 3 to 4 weeks out on delivery.

[Arkadin]

Very cool pics IceNine!
I liked when you said "talking to myself" LOL
It's like IceNine's Thread.
so funny.

[IceNine]

Very cool pics IceNine!
I liked when you said "talking to myself" LOL
It's like IceNine's Thread.
so funny.

I will be hooking this thing up tonight... I will let you know how it compares to the EAD piece that is coming out of the setup.

All-in-all, this thing is replacing an outboard scaler, two video switchers, a digital audio switcher and my other pre-amp!

[IceNine]

I just hooked it up and it does sound really great. I am very impressed with it overall. I do find lossless audio to be a bit better, by the way.

[cardpetree]

That looks pretty sweet. Now Integra is like the Elite version of Onkyo right? And that's just a pre amp or are you just going to use it as a pre amp? Are pre-amps usually that big?

[vooswing]

You seem to know what you're doing so I'm going to ask you a few questions...

Is there a big difference with using a pre-amp with seperate amps compared to a all-in-one receiver?

If so do you need really high end speakers to take advantage of it?

I have been debating going with seperates for a while but the potential cost scares me. Everything I have is pretty decent buy I wouldn't consider any of it high end and if I have to replace everything it's out of the question.