I feel just the same, but maybe the tuner adds significant value for some folks. On the other hand the ability to distribute features (rather than just bug fixes) via flashable files would be added value too. In that case something like the things Kevin wants could be done later, as time and budget permit without prohibitive distribution costs. Heck, the new run of units could be 955's (951 ?) and 950 owners could get a free update to the 95x feature set.

Outlaw probably won't change hardware again in a $899 pre/pro/tuner that's been out about a year. And it's probably selling like hotcakes right now! It's still the cheapest pre/pro/tuner with DPL II on the market, just like it was when it came out a year ago.

Actually I'm glad the 950 has a tuner. I wouldn't have purchased a 950 last year if it didn't have one.

[This message has been edited by Will (edited March 18, 2003).]

And you're probably not the only one. I do think traditional tuners will become increasingly irrelevant as time passes.

As far as new features, we're NOT talking changed hardware, you know? It's about things like a phase control on the sub out, a setting to shut off 'double bass' mixing on 6 channel inputs and maybe adding new modes, that sort of stuff. Maybe gain for LFE vs SUB, etc. The things one could do with flashable firmware in the next 12-24 months, as the 'new' wears off the 950. If the new modes/features were significant the old hardware could be sold as the 951, which replaced the 950 and 950 owners could get a 'free' 951 update.

The old hardware can STILL be sold as a 951 with significant new features in firmware, but the marketing mileage is greatly decreased if existing customers have to trade in or open up their boxes to get the benefit.

Field updates provide a lot of leverage potential, and while socketed EPROM is great it doesn't, IMO, qualify as field upgradeable except in the very loosest sense of the term.

EPROMs are cheap, but PLCC pullers are not (I assume the EPROM is in a PLCC package). This could cost a bit.

Kudos to Outlaw's customer service.

Cary

This was posted by BruceD over on HTF. Best (potentially meaningful) explanation I've heard of the phase diff to the sub between the digital and analog crossovers on the 950:

According to the ICBM manual you can have either 2nd or 6th order low pass filters.

where did the information come from that the 950 uses an active 2nd order low pass filter, or is that a guess? the information doesn't appear in the manual.

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BoB- I believe that the crossover info has been included in (some of) the 950/Sherbourn reviews. I know that S&V usually tries to include it anyway.

They had the digital one for the Sherbourn at least:

24 dB/octave low pass filter, 12 dB/octave high pass filter

Hi all
I presently do not own any Outlaw audio products, but am planning to buy the 950/7100 combo very shortly. I have read with interest the discussion about the installation of the new eprom into the 950 to correct the DTS LFE problem. If indeed 950 users will be required to remove the old eprom and install the new one, I would be glad to do so for any 950 owners in the greater Los Angeles area. I have a static free work station, grounding straps and PLCC chip pullers available to do the work. I would do the work for free to anyone interested in taking me up on my offer. I live in the city of Torrance on Artesia Blvd near the 405 freeway.
Regards,
TCIII