Originally posted by Videodrome:
...I think functionally, it bridges the gap between about three components that I have not seen rolled into one chassis before: An EQ, a purist-oriented audio preamp, and a pre-pro/video switching device...
...Lastly, the on-board EQ is going to be the sticky wicket. Nearly all of the audio enthusiast-oriented preamps eschew EQs and try to keep the signal path as unadulterated as possible. Depending upon the scope of the equalizer, that could really jack the price up (I'm thinking EQ done right, such as Meridian or Cello Audio Palette).
You are so right. Just don't see these types of functions on new equipment. I know that EQ isn't "cool" in the purist community, but I used to have a SAE parametric equalizer that really sounded transparent during operation. It was relatively expensive back in the day, but it worked well. Obviously, the top-end solutions that you mention are cost-prohibitive for most.
Actually, I looked into the NAIM SUPERNAIT unit recently. The US distributor is only a few miles from me here in Illinois. It certainly fills the bill in terms of getting the purist-level one-chassis amplication handled. It will be $4500 or so when available in the US. Surely, Outlaw could come up with something that has the features I mention for something less, say somewhere in the $2000-$2500 range? Or under that, we hope?
Regards, SB
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