 
|
Audio Asylum Thread Printer Get a view of an entire thread on one page |
For Sale Ads |
|
|
Audio Asylum Thread Printer Get a view of an entire thread on one page |
For Sale Ads |
I've seen a few products, like the B&K Ref 30 and the Anthem AVS2 among others that offer "firmware updates".Just what exactly can be accomplished by these updates? I mean, can it keep equipment from becoming obsolete, like adding Dolby EX to a DD processor or just fix little software bugs?
I'm asking because I'm about to drop three large on a new pre/pro and I'd like to be able to keep this one(I'm not sure which one I'll end up with, there's a few in this price range) more than a couple of years.
Follow Ups:
Processors are rapidly changing, especially with DVD-A around the corner & SACD processing likely soon. I see the trend being towards 7.1 HT cum 6 channel audio so it is sensible to plan for a combined system to avoid duplication.Card based processors & other gear (Plinius are planning a 2. 4 or 6 channel card based amp) are the trend as a new card simply updates or expands the component. The Meridian 568 & 861 are in this league but very expensive.
So, bottom line, buy carefully & be aware your component could halve in value in a very short time. Used is a good buffer agaiunst this although even used processors rapidly depreciate e.g. Lexicon umits which cost $2000 + 4 years ago sell for $300 because they lack AC3.
John
Yes, some processor can update the firmware and thereby give you a new surround format for example. Hardware upgrades are usually more diffiucult and many companies just release entirely new units. I would advise a unit with at least 7.1 channels and an analog pass through for all channels. That way if it becomes obsolete you can add another component like a dvd or sacd player that can decode the latest formats. No matter what dacs the processor uses, they will become obsolete. I purchased a unit that has 24/96 dacs and a few months latter other companies were releasing ones with 24/192 dacs. I do not know which unit you are looking at but I would condsider the Aragon Soundstage because it has the analog pass and even the dacs can be upgraded. If you shop the internet you can likely find one discounted to within your price point.
This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors:
Top of Page ]
[ Contact Us ]
[ Support/Wish List ]
[ Copyright © 2024, Audio Asylum, all rights reserved ]
