Video Asylum

Posted by Larry S (A) on March 22, 2002 at 12:46:51

In Reply to: EAD Encore advice vs other processors posted by daleda on March 19, 2002 at 18:54:02:

Two years ago I had an EAD. Was right after they replaced the original EAD Theatermaster lineup.

I thought it had outstanding sound on digital sources (it ran analogue sources through an A/D converter), and the build quality was very solid. However, some of the units back then (including mine) were plagued with faulty lcd displays and it did not have an on screen display. I also disliked the remote, and the requirement to double click commands. Finally, the lack of inputs was what killed it for me. You don't think you need many, but when you consider a tuner, tape deck, phono, DVD/CD, VCR, Cable or Satellite, you find it's a fairly large number.

Anyway, traded in my theatermaster on a Proceed AVP. It resolved most of my issues. It its own way, the build quality was just as good (except for the RCA jacks - Theatermaster's were much better), sounded better on analogue sources and just as good on digital ones, and had ample inputs. However, given that it hasn't been upgraded in years, it's not a wise choice right now (theres a promised upgrade, but I won't believe it till I see it).

I hadn't heard that EAD was being sold. That makes it undesirable to me. Why don't you look at a Lexicon. They have similar sound (much better choices actually), an outstanding reputation for standing behind their products with frequent upgrades and trade in programs. The build quality is not as great, but it's not too bad. Personally, I'd avoid Meridian - - especially used. Every review I've read praises its sound quality, but goes on and on about how difficult the set up is, and how you need a dealer to do it right. I don't know many dealers that would do house calls on a used piece of gear, especially if you bought it on line.