I just complained about the lack of HDMI switching on the Emotiva processor. That’s not the case with the THX Ultra2 certified Integra RDC-7.1 processor. Well, kinda.

You see, you can mix and match what you want to get in the processor. And one of the things you can stick in there is an HDMI module. Unfortunately, the Integra’s HDMI support is a bit lacking. After about a month of bliss, it went flaky for the reviewer, making it unusable. Doh!

Also, you can receive SACD and/or DVD-Audio signals digitally via its iLink connection. How cool is that? However, there are only a few disc players so equipped. Both Integra and Pioneer provide them, among others.

You’ll be happy to know that Dolby ProLogic IIx is included, to get all 7 speakers and also the subwoofer pumping. It also has the THX modes to match.

Audio quality is excellent, of course. “The RDC-7.1 did not color recordings in any way that I noticed.”

Conclusion?

It’s hard for me to find much to criticize in the RDC-7.1. It’s not inexpensive- mine totaled out to $5,500. It’s heavy, deep and tall, so forget about putting it on one of those stackable Pier 1 tables. It’s upgradable. I know. You’re thinking about your wife. Don’t worry, she’ll love it too.

Ultimate AV - Integra Research RDC-7.1 Preamp/Processor