If you keep the video side out of it and leave only a monitor out for on-screen display (which could be hooked to an outboard video switcher and/or rack mount display) you substantially lower production costs that could be used for the premium parts and features listed above. Also, having no tuner would help.

This could be a Lexicon MC-12 without the video with even better audio quality (Lexicon's have not been known for their audiophile sound; mainly their cool features), and internal DSD decoding and Firewire inputs/outputs. That would sure make the industry sit up and take notice.

I'd say ~$3,800 - $4,000 for something that's superior in all aspects to an Anthem or Krell or TAG pre-amp (better parts, better sonics due to using premium Burr-Brown DAC's and better implementation, more features, pure balanced from stem to stern, internal DVD-Audio and SACD decoding that compromises neither format, lower noise, wider dynamic range, etc.).

It can be done, especially without the tremendous dealer overhead that really pumps up the price of these over-blown, specialized PCs (which is all a lot of these pre-amps are nowadays).

I would also suggest hiring a much more quality conscious builder than Eastech. I'd even suggest bringing the manufacturing back to the U.S.A. like Outlaw's amps. Keeping something this sophisticated close to home works a lot better than dealing with an overseas plant.

Dan

[This message has been edited by Dan Hitchman (edited April 25, 2003).]
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Down with the MPAA!! They are robbing you of your rights in the name of greed!