JBL Performance Series AV2

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[opimax]

very interesting, watching for more...:)

I have 1 question what happened between 4:30 and 5:57? "nothing " is not acceptable, certainly not as useless as food, water, companionship etc ? :) :)

Mark

how much if if any recalibration is needed?

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4:45 Pm (Friday the 15th)
;)

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3:35 Pm (Saturday)

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I spent several hours with the unit last night, going through the set up menu, listening to different modes, doing comparisons with the still operational SDP-5. They definitely sound different.

This may have more to do with the ability to send 7.1 analog signals to the AV2, which is not possible with the SDP-5. This means the Oppo BDP-83SE is doing the DAC audio processing for the AV2, while the SDP-5 still requires some of the DAC processing to be done internally.

I'm going to check out a couple of BD movies to see what effect if any I can experience from the soundtrack, then do some SACD, DVD-A, DTS, and stereo (analog bypass) listening. After that, it's time for digital inputs (coax and optical) to see what the AV2 does with digital signals in its many modes, including L7 and PLIIx.

PLIIx is another major step up in the AV2, as the SDP-5 has PLII. IME, the "x" makes a world of difference.

Just for fun, I'll run some HDMI audio in to see if I can perceive any benefit.

As it stands, I'm happy with the AV2 and hope to be happier as I get to know it. I already like it more than the SDP-5, so it's at least a better interim solution until JBL/Lexicon produce a true HDMI 1.3 processor that handles TrueHD, etc.

[JBL 4645]

Dome
How much did it cost because this isn’t showing-up on Google product search.

Nice looker. :bouncy: So what happened to the other one did it blow-up?:dont-know

[hjames]

Dome
How much did it cost because this isn’t showing-up on Google product search.

Nice looker. :bouncy: So what happened to the other one did it blow-up?:dont-know


I did some google yesterday - found it - appears list price is $2,000 -
but that's kind of a gauche (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/gauche) question, innit?

Apparently, if you just do a search for JBL AV2 processor - this comes up as nearly the top link -

http://news.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/10381/512262.html

The link contains a press release tagged "September 4, 2008 � For Immediate Release"

about 80% of the way down that page it says -
JBL AV2 Preamplifier/Digital Surround Processor: A Flexible Home-Theater Control Center

The new JBL Performance Series AV2 is a 7.1-channel preamplifier/digital surround processor (http://news.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/10381/512262.html#) that is designed to deliver exceptional audio and video quality, along with ease of use and flexible configuration options.

The AV2 features an extensive complement of digital and analog audio and video connections, including HDMI� inputs and outputs, to accommodate complex home-entertainment systems with multiple high-definition program sources. The preamp/processor incorporates DCDi� by Faroudja digital video processing to provide upscaled and enhanced 720p or 1080i output from all video sources with extraordinary image quality.

The AV2 can connect directly to a computer via its USB port, enabling users to enjoy playback of streaming audio files and to access the music files (http://news.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/10381/512262.html#) on their computer via the AV2 and its remote control. In addition, the AV2 includes an interface for the iPod that enables enhanced playback and control capabilities when a compatible iPod (not included) is connected using an available optional docking station for iPod.

The AV2 incorporates a host of additional features, including independent multizone operation; RS-232 ports, multiple DC trigger outputs and an IR input for integrated system control; automatic speaker setup and calibration; and proprietary Logic 7® surround-enhancement technology for enhanced sonic realism from matrix-encoded and stereo audio sources.

The JBL Performance Series AV2 preamplifier/digital surround processor is currently available at a suggested retail price of $2,000.

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It's the JBL-branded sibling of the $2,999 Lexicon MV-5.

The SDP-5 still works fine, but it's a bit long in the tooth:

No HDMI
No 7.1 analog input
No 7.1 analog bypass
No Dolby PLIIx
No analog bass management
No USB input for digital media
No iPod direct input


Obviously, the AV2 has all of this and more.

Once JBL/Lexicon comes out with a full HDMI implementation in a processor, I'll start saving for it. When that time comes, I'll move this unit downstream to the Performance Series gear, where I'll take advantage of an additional feature that it has that the SDP-5 does not: autocalibration by direct mic input.

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There is a supply of these available from an authorized dealer at less than MSRP. It's up to the interested party to follow up. I will PM the info to anyone who needs it.

No tire-kickers please! ;)

I will post a longer series of impression later tonight.

[JBL 4645]

Dome
Odd its not showing up on Google UK product search? When was this model released?

All its new features are (firmware) updateable as and when.


I think that’s just over £ one grand UK.

So how you any bluray titles that are encoded Dolby7.1?

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The AV2 set up menu is similar to the SDP-5, with new options and settings as appropriate. It definitely helps to use the OSD on an external monitor. This speeds things along nicely.

I set up one input for DVD-A, SACD, and DTS audio playback. I set another for DVD/BR playback, a third for OTA HDTV, and a fourth for LD. Finally I set another for CD two-channel playback.

The DVD-A/SACD/DTS input defaults to 7.1 analog input and 5.1 analog bypass output. If I want, I can change the output to allow L7 or PLIIx to generate a 7.1 analog bypass output.

The DVD/BR input defaults to digital optical in and has the full bank of DTS, Dolby, and L7 options available. If I want, I can change to HDMI audio input or to 7.1 analog input. Depending on the source material and my whims, I can output 2.0, 2.1, 5.0, 5.1, and 7.1.

The OTA HDTV input defaults to digital coaxial in and PLIIx 5.1/7.1 out.

The LD input defaults to digital optical in and PLIIx 5.1 out. I can change the input to analog and output DD.

For the CD input, it defaults to 2 channel analog in with 2 channel analog bypass out. I can change that to digital optical in and output L7, Dolby, or DTS signals via 5.1 or 7.1 out.

With the new Av2 remote, this is a pretty easy process, much more facile that with the SDP-5 remote.

One thing the AV2 does not do is offer THX surround, which the SDP-5 does. Since I never use it, it's no loss to me.

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OTA HDTV

Due to the distance from the OTA HDTV receiver to the rest of the equipment, digital coax is the best solution for getting digital audio into the sound system. An optical cable would be too long, and running a redundant RCA stereo analog cable makes little sense if I can get a clean digital signal via coax.

Broadcast audio continues to improve, and the AV2 with its PLIIx makes easy and excellent work of whatever audio is thrown at it. The older PLII on the SDP-5 works well, but is limited compared to PLIIx. It's really no contest.

Using L7 on the SDP-5 I can get a full surround from broadcast audio, but IME, the PLIIx handles the audio better, especially those encoded in Dolby 5.1.

For over the air (OTA) broadcast audio, the AV2 is clearly an improvement over the SDP-5. Even my GF, who doesn't know there's anything new in the rack, commented on how good the audio was on the Golden Globes and how realistic the sounds were on 60 Minutes tonight. She thought we were just getting better reception. ;)

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LD

There is some apparent improvement in the audio due to the enhancement offered by PLIIx. However, in regular stereo, there's no real difference.

Interestingly, the Faroudja video section of the AV2 offers some useful composite video enhancement that slightly improves the LD picture quality. It's not HD by a long shot, but it's more watchable than on the SDP-5.

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CD

This is an area I am really interested in, as I used the special stereo analog outs from the Oppo BDP-83SE to the Input 1 stereo analog ins, then through 2-channel analog bypass and back out. It's a very impressive combination.

The soundstage is more organized, it's broader, and it's very clean. Upon initial listening, I was mesmerized by the sound. I clearly felt the urge to listen to stereo music, so I popped in a number of favorites and had a blissful experience. Eventually, I felt it was lacking some solidity in the bottom. There was sufficient bass, but not the kind of authoritative bass that I've come to expect out of that system.

I'll comment on this again in the next post.

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DVD-A/SACD/DTS

Again, with the Oppo doing the work, I could finally hook up a full 7.1 analog output into a 7.1 analog input and run it through bypass. The sound was delicious, with an openness and clarity beyond expectations. I listened to some complete multi-channel discs of each type.

As with CDs in two-channel bypass, eventually, the bottom seemed a little thin. In fact, I began to wonder if the AV2 was deficient in the bass department. This would be a deal-breaker.

As an experiment, I switched from bypass to L7 Music, and the system thundered to life. :hmm: Well then, what's this about?

Obviously, I'll need to spend some more time digging through the settings. It could just be that the SDEC4000 is not calibrated to work with analog bypass settings. Or it could be that I need to tweak some settings in the Oppo. Or that the Synthesis® system isn't the best for listening to multichannel music in native mode. Or that full range speakers would be better. Or... :dont-know

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DVD/BR

Wow! This is where the AV2 and the Synthesis® system really shine.

I watched portions of several movies, including Top Gun, Master and Commander, Star Trek, House of Flying Daggers, The Matrix, 2001, Gladiator, 300...

...and the sound was the best I've heard out of my system. The same LF authority was there, and the rock solid front soundstage was as impressive as ever. It was the surrounds where the AV2 really picked up its game over the SDP-5.

This was really evident on the very first movie I watched: Top Gun. It's always been a loud, sonically demanding movie, but in DVD and even BR I thought it a little flat and one dimensional. Poor mixing, I guessed. Well, not now.

Without being obnoxious or intrusive, the surrounds were alive with information I'd either missed or just had not been able to hear before. There was a whole added dimensionality to it.

This wasn't TrueHD; it was DD 5.1 with L7 Film. And it was stupendous.

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Someday, when the HDMI consortium figures out what it wants to be when it grows up and it comes up with something better than the asinine DRM schemes that nearly break the value of the technology, then JBL/Lexicon/Harman will likely produce a full-blown HDMI capable processor.

When that happens, I'll be back in the market. Until then, it looks like the AV2 is here to stay.

Considering the SDP-5 can still be purchased new for over $5k (MSRP is around $8k), at $2000 the AV2 is a real bargain. At under $2k from an authorized dealer, it's more like a steal. :yes:

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After spending some time with the AV2, I am more impressed with its performance than I expected. What I expected was a good interim solution.

What I got was a better than expected performer whose attributes fit seamlessly with my Oppo BDP-83SE. Its analog output on dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio is very, very, very, very nice. :D

I could not be more pleased, especially at the excellent price that is currently available through authorized dealers. There isn't anything out there that can touch it in its current price range.

happy :) happy :D happy :bouncy: happy :applaud:

[grumpy]

... which likely says a lot about the transparency of the Synthesis gear
downstream from the AV2 as well. Very happy for you. :)

[Titanium Dome]

... which likely says a lot about the transparency of the Synthesis gear
downstream from the AV2 as well. Very happy for you. :)

Yes, though that seems counterintuitive. Most of the posters over in the SSP and in the Oppo BDP-83SE threads at AVS are highly opinionated against any downstream A/D/A conversions.

I must say with lesser gear I might be able to see the "logic of their belief," though they generally only have strongly held opinions based on having listened--with preconceptions, no doubt--to one or two systems that did downstream A/D/A. However, the logic of their belief doesn't bear up in the real world as a universal truth. It's a sometimes truth.

Those darn SDEC units are truly wonderful. It's no wonder they are the single most expensive part of any Synthesis® system, except in the Everest Synthesis®, where the Everest II speaker actually costs more.

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In another thread valentin asked about two channel usage and comments. I'll address them here to keep most of the AV2 info in one place.

I like MCH sound. I play almost everything in MCH, including standard CDs, because they frequently and comparatively sound thin, flat, and lifeless to me in regular two channel.

However, stereo is still a big part of my life when I'm in the office, as my three office set ups are all stereo rigs: L7, L250, or 4430 + B380. Of course my offices are small, except for the one containing the 4430s, which is why the B380 is added.

At home in the HT, things are pretty good for two channel listening, but obviously are optimized for MCH sound and not stereo. If I were using the SAMs for stereo duty, they'd be in a different location and they'd probably be on top of the S1S-EX subs.

I cannot make a useful comparison to my traditional two channel set ups, because those speakers are set up for optimal two channel reproduction. However, I can make some comparisons with the SDP-5's two channel performance compared to the AV2 in the same system in the same room.

[Titanium Dome]

The original SDP-5 set up with an Oppo DV-981HD did a passable job with two channel sound, but that's all. Of course that Oppo player was built to be a great video and digital MCH transport, so that's not a big surprise.

When I replaced it with the Oppo BDP-83, things improved a bit, but not so much that I listened to two channel playback any more often. When I upgraded to the BDP-83SE with its superior analog section and exceptional two channel output, things changed a bit.

I actually found myself wanting to hear some music solely in two channel again. The SDP-5 seemed to handicap this a bit with its sometimes arcane input selection and assignment process, and sometimes it would reset inputs without my involvement.

This tended to tick me off, as I'd listen to something and find myself disappointed with the sound. Then I'd think maybe I had been a victim of placebo effect, only to discover the darn unit had changed the input configuration to something wacky like DTS: Neo6. :wtf:

This kind of strange behavior was another motivator (among those already mentioned) for seeking a replacement unit, which led me to the AV2.

Fortunately, I had some time to spend with the Oppo BDP-83SE and the SDP-5 before the AV2 arrived, and I kept both of them connected and in the rack for many weeks to do side-by-side analysis.

[JBL 4645]

The original SDP-5 set up with an Oppo DV-981HD did a passable job with two channel sound, but that's all. Of course that Oppo player was built to be a great video and digital MCH transport, so that's not a big surprise.

When I replaced it with the Oppo BDP-83, things improved a bit, but not so much that I listened to two channel playback any more often. When I upgraded to the BDP-83SE with its superior analog section and exceptional two channel output, things changed a bit.

I actually found myself wanting to hear some music solely in two channel again. The SDP-5 seemed to handicap this a bit with its sometimes arcane input selection and assignment process, and sometimes it would reset inputs without my involvement.

This tended to tock me off, as I'd listen to something and find myself disappointed with the sound. Then I'd think maybe I had been a victim of placebo effect, only to discover the darn unit had change the input configuration to something wacky like DTS: Neo6. :wtf:

This kind of strange behavior was another motivator (among those already mentioned) for seeking a replacement unit, which led me to the AV2.

Fortunately, I had some time to spend with the Oppo BDP-83SE and the SDP-5 before the AV2 arrived, and I kept both of them connected and in the rack for many weeks to do side-by-side analysis.

I think you need an RTA to connect and see what is happening in terms of frequency one might have slight boast the other less top end and more low end? Only way is an RTA. Or spectrumlab is free and easy to use what goes out of the outputs is going to display on the spectrum waterfall.

As old as my sound system is I can spot dodgy fake mixes on bluray that might fly way past you, I’m not saying I’m better than you, I just have an annoying habit of listening too much.:D

I’d use the same player and (A and B) the two systems with an RTA the level output might also be shy by a few db.

I’m going to test run crude test with same music source place the microphone SPL db at near front play a short few seconds of music in stereo 2 channels and then repeat it again with Dolby stereo pro-logic with the surrounds muted only test the LCR to see what the frequency waterfall looks like.

I’ll post it elsewhere when done.

[Titanium Dome]

The SDP-5 has two analog direct modes: 5.1 analog bypass and 2.0 analog bypass. In the 5.1 setting, only the L and R mains are bypassed, everything else goes through the processor.

The AV2 has six direct modes: 7.1 analog bypass, 7-channel, 5.1 analog bypass, 5-channel, 2.0 analog bypass, and 2-channel.

In the x-channel modes, bass management is still active in the AV2, while the rest of the signal goes through analog bypass.

It was clear upon first listening that the AV2 was a better analog machine and that the two channel in particular was much improved. Much of the improvement is due to the fact that the low end becomes more full and more solid when the S1S-EX subs complement the SAMs in 2-channel. In addition, the sound is simply cleaner and more natural. In this manner, i can relax and enjoy the sound, rather than sit with some tension as I try to analyze whether I enjoy it or not, as was the case with the SDP-5's 2.0 analog bypass.

I would say that my favorite two channel listening is still done outside my HT, but now I feel very comfortable just sitting in there and listening to two channel music without feeling the need to relocate to another part of the house.

The room itself is just so pleasing and insular, that it's easy to really turn up the volume, sit in the dark, and let Deep Purple's "Lazy" lull me to sleep.

[Titanium Dome]

I’d use the same player and (A and B) the two systems with an RTA the level output might also be shy by a few db.


Aside from level matching, I'm more interested in what pleases me than messing about with an RTA. The total system calibration that was done is still in effect (see several posts above) and the room has not changed.

Someday I'll have grumpy stop over if I feel the need for more measurements; more probably I'll just have him over to mess about and drink beer.

It's the way I'm wired, I guess, but once I've done all the technical work and things are set, the science tends to bore me.

[JBL 4645]

Even if I, popped on over quickly on the transporter which is inoperative at the moment pending repair. LOL my ears are younger but I’d still use something that doesn’t have ear bashing abuse an RTA.

Anyway I finished the waterfalls and will have them posted on this forum a few threads below this one.

Sounds to me like you’re worrying too much, relax if you made simple error in setting-up its not the end, not for least 2 more years.:D

Does the two AVR have the means for separate EQ one for stereo and one for Dolby stereo I mean Dolby / dts 5.1 or what ever?

I think EQ for each as one in stereo will be way different to Dolby stereo or Dolby digital thou the two Dolby modes should be within a few db of each other. The stereo mode might need tightening up a bit or maybe less so that it mirrors as close as possible within a few db otherwise one is going to be different.

Listen on headphones and switch between something easy like dialogue. Music has random up and down frequency constantly changing not easy to remember choice something easy.

[Titanium Dome]

Let me know when the transporter is fixed. :)

[JBL 4645]

Let me know when the transporter is fixed. :)

Yeah I’ll just hop on and beam my, atoms on over.:D

You should have some idea on how to EQ your own set-up now without be so reliant on the chap that did all the fine turning for you.

Does it not have custom EQ settings like say a bank of 3 or 4 user control settings?

Get an RTA like the DEQ2496 the amount of money you spent that should be like pocket change to, you that is not an overpriced item and it might have some useful potential in the system, maybe?

I wouldn’t mind a few if money wasn’t a tight issue :( because I still have some gaps that need tiny adjustment not abused adjustment just enough to fix what this room is slightly messing up. Yes I know room treatment makes a great deal on tackling some frequencies naturally without eclectically artificial EQ devices.

How well is the two JBL 18” subs are they still to you’re satisfaction or still to peaky at few frequencies or boomy?

[hjames]

But again, he built a custom room with specific sound control materials to tame any room issues, then brought in very nice gear with a warranty and had pros do the last bit of fine tuning. Why would he need to fiddle again?

why in the name of all goodness would he "dink" with it at this point??
Once its EQed - it should be set. What would be his gain for fiddling with it?
He says it plays beautifully already - I sure believe him.

If its cheap downmarket stuff with lots of noise and inherent drift,
it might need constant fiddling - but its not.

Really - think about what you are asking ...!



You should have some idea on how to EQ your own
set-up now without be so reliant on the chap that did all the fine turning for you.

Does it not have custom EQ settings like say a bank of 3 or 4 user control settings?

Get an RTA like the DEQ2496 the amount of money you spent that should be
like pocket change to you that is not an overpriced item,
and it might have some useful potential in the system, maybe?

How well is the two JBL 18” subs are they still to you’re satisfaction
or still too peaky at few frequencies or boomy?

[JBL 4645]

But again, he built a custom room with specific sound control materials to tame any room issues, then brought in very nice gear with a warranty and had pros do the last bit of fine tuning. Why would he need to fiddle again?

why in the name of all goodness would he "dink" with it at this point??
Once its EQed - it should be set. What would be his gain for fiddling with it? He says it plays beautifully already - I sure believe him.

If its cheap downmarket stuff with lots of noise and inherent drift, it might need constant fiddling - but its not.

Really - think about what you are asking ...!

Yeah so fine! Then the chap had an RTA with him! What do you do yours with then huh, a dipstick!

Least I have a basic RTA and use the ear as some levels might look level. Just slight on propose adjustment of the Q can make the tone shape sound different like whooshy sound. Its hard to describe. But I’m sure some know what I mean.

The speakers are placed spaced apart and one of them is or both is going to be different than the centre or least they should all sound! The same and that often takes a few days.

Place them side by side and they’ll be close but the stereo is narrow only good enough for few inches away listening!

Too far apart and all types of things happen and its like guessing game. Thou its not hard if, you had gasp of what to do with the situation.

Dome said in one post on dozen threads he was displeased with the bass the boomy tone what was it for music or film what does it matter?

I seem to recall vaguely it was EQ to as best as it could be, Dome correct me if I’m right or wrong. And that chap would come back and have another go at it.

When I was working for Warner Bros, it took the sound engineer 2 days to EQ each of the 12 screens. That’s was also a long shift per day. Even a HF blew up on the centre channel during the EQ of the medium size screen.

I also recalling reading Tomlinson Holman article interview of the same situation where it takes days to EQ. You can’t expect a miracle in less than few hours.

[JBL 4645]

I heard that. :)

Less dink, more listen (bet you thought I was going to say "drink") :p

Is that what you guys where doing that day drinking and listening. That’s worse than drinking and driving.:blink:

You need to spend a good working 8 – 9 hours yes your ears might sound hazy and hissy afterwards.:D

Did you know drinking affects the inner ear for misbalance! That is why we stumble around trying to gain our balance.;)

Drink water or freshly squeezed orange juice with vitamins!

[Valentin]

thanks Ti Dome

[JBL 4645]

I forget which thread he carted that had the final look of the system at least two threads, I’ll have lookie though and have another little picture show peek.

[Titanium Dome]

thanks Ti Dome

You're welcome. I edited the post listing the direct modes. I neglected to put in 2.0 analog bypass.

[Titanium Dome]

Inspired by Heather, I'm updating this thread.

A while back I decided to give the HDMI input and output a whirl. I had the chance to pick up a couple of premium HDMI cables (what does that even mean?) for a song, so I grabbed them.

I ran a short HDMI cable from the Oppo BDP-83SE to the AV2, then a long cable to my PJ.

That exposed problem #1, which is that the AV2 degrades the video from the Oppo. The Anchor Bay chip in the Oppo is quite superior, and there's no way to pass that signal through the AV2 without the lesser Faroudja chip messing with it. Obviously, that wasn't going to fly.

That exposed problem #2, which is that the AV2 has two HDMI inputs and only one output. IF there were two outputs and one could be configured to pass through video without internal processing, then I could still route audio through the AV2 via HDMI while bypassing its video circuitry--but, no such luck.

Thus I am back to running HDMI for video only direct to the PJ and utilizing other methods for audio into the AV2.

When I get the chance I'm going to dig deeper into the set up menus on the AV2 to see if it's possible to overcome this obstacle. As it stands, there's no obvious way to do it.

[hjames]

Inspired by Heather, I'm updating this thread.

A while back I decided to give the HDMI input and output a whirl. I had the chance to pick up a couple of premium HDMI cables (what does that even mean?) for a song, so I grabbed them.

Monoprice I take it, like the ones I got a while back?

I was also using a monoprice 2 port HDMI switch last year when I had the HK AVR 7300 in place - then got a 4 port version earlier this year when I got that Yamaha AVR after the HK receiver died.

[hjames]

Inspired by Heather, I'm updating this thread.

A while back I decided to give the HDMI input and output a whirl. I had the chance to pick up a couple of premium HDMI cables (what does that even mean?) for a song, so I grabbed them.

I ran a short HDMI cable from the Oppo BDP-83SE to the AV2, then a long cable to my PJ.

That exposed problem #1, which is that the AV2 degrades the video from the Oppo. The Anchor Bay chip in the Oppo is quite superior, and there's no way to pass that signal through the AV2 without the lesser Faroudja chip messing with it. Obviously, that wasn't going to fly.

That exposed problem #2, which is that the AV2 has two HDMI inputs and only one output. IF there were two outputs and one could be configured to pass through video without internal processing, then I could still route audio through the AV2 via HDMI while bypassing its video circuitry--but, no such luck.

Thus I am back to running HDMI for video only direct to the PJ and utilizing other methods for audio into the AV2.

When I get the chance I'm going to dig deeper into the set up menus on the AV2 to see if it's possible to overcome this obstacle. As it stands, there's no obvious way to do it.

AH, thats what I thought after reading your posts and looking through the manual - it occurs to me the best approach would be to run the Oppo BR's HDMI direct to the HDTV, and run any other HDMI signals (AppleTV, CATV, Direct TV, TIVO, whatever) through the AV2 and then to any other HDMI input on your TV and switch source there as needed.
Or use a external HDMI switch rated for 1080i or better.

[Titanium Dome]

I received three inquiries about what I'm doing with the second AV-2, so I'm economizing by posting here. :)

I bought it specifically to replace the Synthesis® SDP-5, which is really a Lexicon MC-8 (just like the AV-2 is an MV-5).

As you'll recall, my first AV-2 kicked the SDP-5 out of my HT, mostly due to the SDP-5 not having 7.1 analog input capability. As it turned out there was more to recommend the AV-2 over the SDP-5 than just that, and I've grown to appreciate the AV-2 more and more, while I've grown more irritated with the SDP-5 in subsequent uses.

First I used the SDP-5 as a stop-gap pre with the K2s, but Grumpy and I both disliked it as a stereo pre, so out it went to the Performance Series set up, which is 5.1 and therefore a logical fit for SACD and DVD-A playback among other things. Grumpy left his Proceed Pre on loan for the K2s.

Over time the SDP-5 developed an annoying habit of emitting a high-picthed whine when turned off. It was barely discernible, but when I noticed it, I could not get it out of my mind until I left the room. When the opportunity to get an AV-2 plus the iPod Bridge came up, it was irresistible, so I bought the second AV-2 with the express purpose of kicking the SDP-5 (which is also the Performance AV-1 BTW) out of another system.

The AV-2 integrates well into the Performance Series, is easy to set up, and not only is silent when off but quieter when on. In addition, it has some more up-to-date surround modes, USB play capability, iPod integration, and more.

The other plus is pure vanity, and that is now the processor, the amp (AVA-7), and all the speakers are genuine Performance Series. ;)

As for the poor SDP-5, I moved that up to the master bedroom to replace an aging SDP-3. I coupled it with an older Synthesis® 6150 amp and plugged into a Niles IPC-6 so the power is cut when it's off, and it looks like I'll keep ti there for a while.