Integra 8.3 DVD/DVD-A/SACD

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This is the unit my trusted dealer reccomended if I was interested in a do-it-all machine. The wait is finally over, and the units are hitting the US- with some of the units delayed from the West Coast strike. I would like to discuss the "audio-only" functions of the unit, which has only been running constantly for about 72hrs (very early for judgement).I bought this unit mainly for the progressive scan DVD with the bonus of hopefully hitting the audiophile jackpot with either of the next-gen formats. After a mere 72 hours, I can report that the "triple 7's" have already appeared in the format of DVD-A.
Prior to buying this machine I had never listened to DVD-A or SACD, so there are no biases. The machine is being run through a Cary 300-SEI w/Triangle Celius. I compare CD play with my Cary 306/100.
Keep in mind it is very early, but there is an utter lack of low end frequency with redbook and SACD.Clarity and soundstage are present.
I would be somewhat willing to attribute this to a lack of "break-in",
HOWEVER; the DVD-A playback is fantastic. Neil Young's "Harvest" is delivering bass in spades.The kick drum must be in the room. It's that (darned) good. When I compare the SACD of the Integra directly to my redbook 306, the 306 wins in virtually every way other than high-level detail retrieval.My "Beggar's Banquet" hybrid SACD is the reference source.
Early conclusion: This unit can serve two masters. The HT maven, and the audiophile. No disrespect is meant to the SACD format. On this particular player, the DVD-A circuit is the absolute authority.
Feedback/Comparisons are welcomed,
CB

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Topic - Integra 8.3 DVD/DVD-A/SACD - Cbucki 15:17:52 10/29/02 (1)

Re: Integra 8.3 DVD/DVD-A/SACD - Estes 06:38:19 11/05/02 (0)

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