Integra DTC-9.8 Pre Amplifier works great

Integra DTC-9.8 Pre Amplifier works great. Outputs: Six HDMI, XLR AUdio, RCA Audio. MFR: 5 Hz - 100kHz +1 dB, - 3 dB. Take a look at these features on the 9.8. Balanced inputs and outputs, something only seen in boutique brands.

Includes top notch video processing (HQV Reon-VX) usually only found in very expensive separate video processors. Speaker setup a no-brainer with the Audyssey MultEQ XT (includes the mic). Has four HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs so you can drive a second display in the room (although not both at the same time). HDMI 1.3a supporting all of the current Dolby and DTS formats (yes even DTS-MA). Top of the line 24/192 kHz Burr Brown DACs on all channels. Measurable performance, not just marketing hype (see our On the Bench section). Decent looks in a heavy chassis something that means a lot in terms of perceived value for your dollar. THX Ultra2 Certified (As Brian Florian would explain, this is important, if for nothing other than peace of mind).

RS-232 and Ethernet control for custom installer. The Integra is like most other Japan-manufactured audio components with a solid build, but not overdone.

There is no massive copper plate bolted to the bottom to add an extra 10 pounds, but it does have a nice aluminum front and a toroidal power transformer. In terms of usability, the 9.8 has all the right parts. First, there are direct source access buttons on the front as well as a menu control. While this might not be important to most remote control users, direct access to sources and menus are important to many consumers.

The front of the unit has an Audio/Video input (including Toslink) which would be good for a game console or a standard def camcorder, but I wish they would have included component video or HDMI on the front to use with high def video cameras or a gaming console made in the last two years. The back of the unit is equally as impressive, with a full row of balanced connectors across the bottom (7.1 out and 2 in).

The two balanced rear channel outputs can also be used in a bi-amping solution (something I have never been a big fan of, although some people claim it sounds better). For analog stereo inputs, you have a CD, tape loop, and a phono input (yes vinyl is making a comeback). There are five additional input audio inputs that also support S-Video and composite. There are five digital audio inputs (three coaxial and two Toslink), as well as an optical output.

On the video side, there are three component inputs and four HDMI inputs. Video outputs include two component (one for the second zone) and two HDMI (only one HDMI output can be used at a time).

The unit also has an Ethernet port and an RS-232 port for integration with control systems, two 12v trigger outputs, and IR inputs and outputs. There is even an antenna jack.

The component, HDMI, and digital inputs and be assigned to any of the inputs on the unit. The inputs can also be renamed since AUX1 isn't terribly descriptive. Integra also included XM and Sirius Radio integration. It's a great option to have both providers in one unit, not forcing us not to choose one or the other.

The integration looks to be very nice, and while I don't subscribe to either service, my co-workers do. The satellite radio setting and interface are accessible via the on-screen or front panel displays. The DTC-9.8 also has an HD Radio tuner in it if you don't want to pay for services like XM or Sirius. Integra, along with many other A/V vendors, has an iPod dock (as an optional accessory). This item is in the category "Consumer Electronics\TV, Video & Home Audio\Home Audio\Receivers & Amplifiers\Receivers". The seller is "tre_638867" and is located in this country: US.

This item can be shipped to United States.

Supported Modes: AM, FM
Color: Black
Band: AM/FM
Year Manufactured: 2011
Surround Sound Formats: Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS-HD, THX Ultra 2
Audio Outputs: Digital Coaxial RCA, Digital Optical TOSLINK, HDMI, Headphone Jack, XLR
Number of Outputs: 8
Brand: Integra
Type: Pre Amplifier
Audio Inputs: HDMI
Number of Channels: 7.2
Number of Inputs: 16
Model: Integra DTC 9.8
Features: Digital
Country/Region of Manufacture: China