McIntosh MC255 amplifier with what processor?
 

I picked up a McIntosh MC255 for a 5.1 theater , I really don’t need more channels. Trying to figure out if I’m better off with a used processor or new since I am only interested in 5.1 ? Plan to get either 2 JL audio E122 subs or one F112. From what I can see the power difference between the two subs are negligible and the E112 lacks balanced input/output which probably isn’t necessary for a 10 foot cable.

I can tell this topic has no steam : )

I have been happy with my Anthem AVM70.

Here’s the deal with processors. The latest ones will decode all the latest object-oriented audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DRS:X. In addition the HDMI pass-throughs of newer processors will be able to handle 4k and 8k and DolbyVision.

In order to take advantage of these technologies you need multiple height channels for audio and displays that can handle Dolby Vision and the higher resolution video formats.

So if you are running 5.1, no side or height channels, and running a display that is not compatible with 4k or 8k or DolbyVison you don’t need the latest and greatest surround processor.

Things like the room correction system then become more important.

For example in my system I’m still using an MX-151. It is 1080P so my only 4K video source, an Oppo 205, goes directly to one input of my 4k JVC projector and the MX-151 switches all the 1080p video sources and drives the other input to the projector. The MX-151 won’t decode Dolby True HD and DTS-MA but the Oppo will, so I use the analog outs of the Oppo into the MX-151 to decode those formats.

I’m all for buying pre-pros 1 or 2 generations back.

When I bought my MX-151 it was one generation back and I used the Oppo to get me into the current generation.

Now I’m two generations back and there is no way to get Atmos/DolbyVision to work without replacing my projector, surround processor, Blue-Ray player, and installing height speakers and amplification to drive them, all of which I’m not going to do.

You have to decide if the juice is worth the squeeze.

I'm really happy with my MX170 and consider it a big upgrade from my previous MX150/151. RoomPerfect is simple with outstanding results. I run everything into it without any major issues. :thumbsup:

Thanks

I will have atmos ceiling speakers, wires are in. Looking at Triad Silver speakers which can be aimed but open to suggestions. I have heard good things about Anthem and the new Marantz AV10. I am also considering the McIntosh MX 100. I called Chuck at McIntosh today and he said the MX100 sounds better than the MX123 and is not based on the MX123. The MX123 is apparently based on the Marantz 8005a (this information is not from Chuck)with a McIntosh power supply. So right now I’m looking at 5.1.2 for the system

leaning toward Anthem AVM70/90 , so is it better to turn off crossover on subwoofers and let the the Anthem use DSP to adjust the subwoofers?

Yes,

Crossover Switch
The “crossover” selector switch determines the operating mode of the E-Sub’s built-in active crossover.
“Off” defeats the crossover filter, completely removing this circuit from the signal path and is most useful when using a receiver or preamp/processor’s filters and bass-management features.

I’m paired to a maranta av7706. Using only the front three channels on the mc255 in a 5.1.2 system. The other 4 channels driven by emotive. Sub JL Fathom.