ALL ABOUT THE POWER! The BEST Emotiva MR1L Receiver Review

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📌 VIDEO CHAPTERS: EMOTIVA MR1L REVIEW
00:00 EMOTIVA MR1L REVIEW - PRODUCT INFO
02:26 EMOTIVA RECEIVER - MR1L BUILD QUALITY & SETUP
03:16 EMOTIVA ROOM CORRECTION with EMO-Q
05:21 MR1L STEREO SOUND
06:30 EMOTIVA MR1L RECEIVER SOUND QUALITY
07:47 WHERE THE MR1L CAN IMPROVE
09:26 COMPARABLE PRODUCTS: Emotiva MR1L vs OTHER RECEIVERS
11:02 KRISTI and ANDREW CONVO
11:47 EMOTIVA MR1 vs EMOTIVA MR1L
14:10 EMOTIVA'S OUTDATED HDMI
ALL ABOUT THE POWER! The BEST Emotiva MR1L Receiver Review
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[@robinsonbrand]

Get 30% OFF annual licenses of CleanMyMac X for 1, 2, or 5 Macs with code ROBINSON! (Offer Expires 2/18) To start a FREE trial, visit bit.ly/PromoRobinson 🚨Answer my poll below in the comments!! GET THE EMOTIVA RECEIVER HERE: bit.ly/3P0KT9j Missed something? Open the description box ABOVE. Still have questions? Hit THANKS to highlight your Q + give thanks for the help you receive! Please NO Links, Self Promotion, or Personal Info. Stay on topic and be respectful.

[@quaternion]

I don't know if you already switched but If you make the switch to apple silicone it would be really cool if you made a video about that.

[@dawaynecleckley8673]

This video is a great example of an objective review. Why? Because we know how much you two love Emotiva as a brand. Yet, when given a product to review that makes you ask 'why', you did not hold back from being candid and honest for your viewers. So, I just want to say, thank you!

[@jmpersic]

Andrew and Kristi, it's always nice to be reminded how honest your reviews are, and that you discuss the negative aspects frankly even when it's not easy given the position as a reviewer.

[@fotoram]

I love my MR1 (not the MR1L, by the way). I was a Denon user for over 25 years, but I've never heard sound quality like this in a $2k product. My friend has a Anthem MRX 1140 that cost him over $4K and my MR1 blows it away. But, you are right, I don't game. I don't need 50+ types of DSP and I don't need to stream or use it in home automation. All that is handled by a separate home automation unit and a separate music room with separates (also Emovtiva). So this type of unit is for me and people like me. BTW, my unit does not do any of the pops or so that many are talking about. So maybe they fixed it in a recent upgrade as I got my AVR about two weeks ago.

[@mjw930]

I have the MR1 for the reasons you mention, I believe it simply sounds better for music and theater than equivalently priced offers from the main stream. I AB’d it with a Pioneer, Marantz, and Onkyo in the similar price range and the audio quality, all channels driven is significantly better to my ear. I don’t game and I stream via Apple TV and WiiM Pro and honestly have no need for those advanced features, never will. Setup was no more difficult and have not regretted the purchase for a second. I also haven’t experienced the pop and crackle but perhaps I don’t flip across inputs often enough to notice. I bought for a superior pre amp and amp section and that’s what it delivered.

[@Roddy451]

MR-1 owner here... Agreed. I do not have the "pop" when changing inputs. I have a light "pop" when I quickly raise the volume. This integrated processor/amplifier is super dynamic. I have zero regrets. It reminded me of the old NAD 3020, which had dynamic power in spades.

[@justinmahon4032]

@@Roddy451 I called Emotiva about the pop int he volume when moving quickly. They told me they went with analog and a set of boards. When you move to the next board you get the pop.

[@robinsonbrand]

@@justinmahon4032@justinmahon4032 If what you're saying is true, that explanation doesn't make sense because the pop is heard on every HDMI input when switching or when switching between HDMI and optical or analog. (It's also NOT what they told me) It happens even when switching source material when using the same source --it's not a board issue or not just a board issue. It has to do with acquiring a signal and/or handshake. Most AVRs use an auto-mute command when establishing a handshake with a source, but Emotiva doesn't or theirs is faulty. I don't know. But it's an issue and not a feature of having an "analog board".

[@Roddy451]

@@justinmahon4032 Thank you for sharing that detail. I never contacted Emotiva as I felt this was a minor thing.

[@adamraper6993]

I have this in my dedicated theater and couldn’t be happier. This thing sounds incredible and has so much power. There are minor annoyances as mentioned, but those are easily overlooked as soon as a movie comes on. It’s a barebones receiver that focuses on power and sound.

[@iove2000]

Thats why I keep watching A and K...for your unbiased reviews. I replaced a processor because i could not stand the sound of clicky relays. Thank you for saving me from a future headache and the hassle of a return! You two are awesome!

[@michaelnickens8793]

Thank you so much for giving an honest assessment. Features are so important. Sticking with my RZ-50 thanks to you 2. Glad Kristi is back 🙏🏾❤️🌞

[@robinsonbrand]

Thanks for watching! The RZ-50 is STILL a beast!

[@Monsux]

Yes, what she said! Such a weird product release. For me, AV receiver is something I'm not changing often. When I update, it just needs to have the latest main features. I would have to spend more in the long run when leaving out things like HDMI 2.1.

[@King_Dusty_Of_Pookytopia]

I do movies exclusively. Everything else does not get used. This is absolutely perfect for me.

[@BWalt0385]

I’m so glad that you mentioned the snapping or popping noises. I purchased and have been using the MC1, which I believe is this unit minus the power portion, for a month and have the same exact issues. Input changes, volume changes, surround mode changes all cause it to do this. I did notice that it does it less using my Blu-ray player as opposed to my Apple TV4k. I’m using Emotivas 6 outlet power strip, XPA3 and 2 BasX A5s and I checked my outlet to make sure the wiring was correct. I have also had to reset the unit 2 times with the back master switch due to HDMI issues and intermittent audio drop out. Absolutely love the channel and have been waiting for this review. Thanks!

[@MetzenJSR]

I’ve been waiting for this review! Thank you!

[@Audiomainia2310]

Hi Andrew and Kristi, I was avoiding this reciever because of a lack of HDMI 2.1 as well as no WiFi - those ommisions befuddled me for the price. Now Ive been rockin my Onkyo RZ-50 for almost 2 years and I was seriously thinking about switching since they currently have this unit at 25% off ( $1199.00 ). I think now after your review I have no reason to change - thanks for the video / my Sunday's start with coffee and your vids!

[@JBalloonist]

Have you been happy with the RZ-50? I have a decade plus old Onkyo that I would like to upgrade when I finally get a 4k TV.

[@hermangaviria690]

I just bought mine and it came in a couple of days ago. 25% off came in really clutch. I'm building my own speakers so I only have a L and R channels at the moment but slowly I'll have all the channels for a 5.2.4

[@navidmahmood876]

Can I just say, it’s refreshing having a receiver with its power rating for ALL channels driven!

[@n8wrl]

I have several Emotiva amps and love them. LOVE them. I love that they're made in TN and I can call them whenever I want. And I have. And, your reviews of the 7000ES and Sony's TV's sent me that way for home theater. I spent 15 years with a Pioneer AVR and a "dumb" TV and struggled with the remote. I had no idea how convenient the Sony TV to Sony AVR integration is. For me, game changing. So, Emotiva for power, others for AVR and stereo.

[@MetzenJSR]

Thank you for the Emotiva review. I’d love to hear your review of their speakers.

[@NathanMaharaj]

Really appreciate the note on the experience of living with the unit. Bonus points for mentioning that Anthem is also a slowpoke, since that's the other brand I'm looking at as my next step.

[@stevieg3078]

Thank you. I watched Emotivo rave about this unit. I was leaning towards getting an all Emotivo 5.1 system.....now I will look into the other units you mentioned.

[@randolphblack2554]

Good afternoon, Christi and Andrew. I buy for features and decent power that will drive my current speakers, which are BIC 8" sealed units, for a Home Theater receiver. I am on my third AVR in 30 years and my second set of speakers. My first AVR was a Technics with Class D amplification that would shut halfway through the first repeat of "Get Over It " by The Eagles. That was traded in a used Sony 900 series that had definite power reserves and the last one is a Yamaha A760 which I am quite happy with. Keep up t good work send the Emotiva back!

[@HoundStuff]

Nice review and insight! From one of the recent Emotiva podcasts it sounds like they will have a new web based interface for settings and things, if I understood correctly. Hopefully that will work with these units and not just future models.

[@micman12]

Audio quality above everything else! I’m looking for AVR that can also be an excellent 2 channel system. All signals come from external sources; streaming is done on a Wiim. I only have a single gaming console; I don’t need HDMI 2.1. The menus being sluggish will be a little annoying but once it’s setup, it won’t be changed for years. The only thing that gives me pause is the pop when switching sources.

[@nzmauricenz]

HDMI 2.1 should be the baseline for 2024..

[@joshparkerson8390]

Loved this!

[@txerapng]

Sunday’s not Sunday without a video from this channel. 🫶🏻

[@robinsonbrand]

Appreciate that!

[@KristiWright]

[@J-cd4nx]

Agreed!!!

[@philbert9117]

To answer your poll: Both! I’ve got a Marantz Cinema 40, which I got because I knew the sound would be great, and the HDMI execution would be as close to flawless as possible. Now I do think Emotiva is a great brand. But I would personally stick to their amplifiers (XPA line).

[@jaredbeskow8389]

Same answer for the poll. I have a Marantz SR7015. It was one of the only really good receivers with HDMI 2.1 when something went out on my old receiver and wanted to make a switch. It needs to work well with Control4 for me. I've heard Emotiva is really slow with Control4, which is enough of a reason for to avoid them for receivers or pre-amps/processor.

[@claudioe1]

Happy with my Denon AVR X3800 AND two Emotiva BasX amps (BasX 3 for LCR and BasX 7 for surrounds/Atmos). Would love for Emotiva to put out a processor with a better GUI and next-gen HDMI features. But for now, this is the way I can get the best of worlds.

[@chrishunt9675]

I love a good polite Andrew smackdown. Delicious!

[@kjbunnyboiler]

Afternoon Andrew and Kristi👍👍

[@robinsonbrand]

Good morning KJ! Thanks for tuning in!

[@KristiWright]

Hi!

[@leo11877]

Currently these are on 25% off for around $1200. Unbeatable at this price. The MR1L is only 9 Channel while the MR1 is 11 channels for a good amount of savings.

[@72spawndn]

Bells and Whistles are just something else to break. I like the simplicity of the Emotiva. I just ordered one and it's replacing a Marantz SR7008 that has been sketchy to say the least.

[@Film_musings]

Andrew and Christy, after getting bitten by the features bug over the last decade or so, a period when I'd be upgrading and switching out receiver after receiver for the next big thing, I've reached a point now in life when all that matters in a home theater for me, is a captivating movie with a good story line. I just sold my Marantz Dolby Atmos Receiver a few weeks ago and went back to to an old Panasonic Low profile 6.1 receiver which still has S-video connectors and NO HDMI. It's powerful, punchy and fits my recovering spec addiction. I make this setup work with my 4K Blu-ray player and TV. I will reiterate that, like you said, it all comes down to what matters for each of us INDIVIDUALLY. Thanks for the review. Btw, I appreciate Emotiva products. Have a good day.

[@BryanRuby]

Curious, which Panasonic? This sounds like my SA-HE200 which I've kept in the closet for a rainy day although it's far from low profile.

[@allenmozak8365]

I like Both Features and Power!!

[@user-gy4xo3gc3r]

Thanks for covering this receiver. I just bought the MR1, coming from a Marantz sr6013. The Emotiva blows the doors off the Marantz in channel separation and power. Movies have come alive and made me feel my entire system was upgraded. However, the menus are slow and clunky and you don’t get the latest hdmi features for sure. My biggest gripe is my Apple TV cannot control the volume through hdmi cec. I have to resort to IR and pointing the remote at the receiver like an animal. There are small tradeoffs like this that should be better. But I guess I’m willing to accept this for the sound quality and price point. Such is Emotiva.

[@PedrotheOscalecollector]

I love mys because it's preout and 9.2, and it doesn't shut off and go into speakers' protection mode like the denon always did

[@Problmhouston]

I just finished my 9.x.6 theater and picked up an MR1. I have the same pop issue that everyone else has but my room is truly dedicated to watching movies so once the movie has started there is no hiss or pop. No gaming, no 8k, and no need for the "features" because it truly is just about the movies. It is short a couple of channels for my system but at $1500 it is a place holder for something with 15 built in channels down the line. I actually am the very specific customer that Emotiva is looking for. However, I really hope they do address the hiss pop issue. Even if it doesn't bother me much the idea that a company is fully aware of a defect as large as this and not address it isn't a company I would continue to support if they do end up making another AVR with enough channels to support my theater. Keep up the great work Andrew. I look forward to your video each week.

[@robinsonbrand]

The MR1 and MR1L are the same product save for a few channels and watts, so I'm not surprised to hear you're hearing the snap-crackle-pop. You do get used to it, but it should've never gone out the door without being fixed IMHO.

[@shemsureshot]

I’m optimistic the pop can be fixed because the Yamaha A8A (and the test of the line) had pop noises like this and they managed to fix it after a few software updates.

[@Problmhouston]

@@shemsureshot It's been a year and some folks on the forum have been dealing with it for quite some time with no response from Emotiva. But again, it doesn't really bother me too much because it really is all about the movie experience for me.

[@shemsureshot]

@@ProblmhoustonI didn’t realise it had been out for that long! I can understand now where you’re coming from.

[@westcoast708]

Hello and good morning A & K. Enjoy your Sunday ...

[@KristiWright]

Same to you! Thanks for watching.

[@jazziespaz]

I'm glad I saw this review. I'm looking into this model or the Onkyo RZ50. I think the Onkyo is the way to go for me.

[@ericbenitez1915]

I own the first gen Emo receiver fusion and have been happy with it. That said I paid $500 for it like 11 years ago. So I'll running strong. So my thoughts on Emo. You get power, clarity, and large number of channels for the cost. I'd say compare dollar for dollar. $1600, 11 channel at 85watts each RMS. I'd think for that identical setup you'd spend tons more. Then add in the billion futures you don't need and you're at $3000+. Don't get me wrong Id like some additional futures and perhaps 4k 120hz but Emo did say that the MR1 and MR1L will be upgradeable to 8k in the future. Which is nice. For me, for the money I think it's solid. But I'm also judging off old tech. I am in the market to upgrade and am leaning on the MR1L

[@lonniefarmer7067]

Thanks to you both! I traded in a Marantz 7010 for an 8015 for those added features and 11 channels. I see the 8015 on sale for $2,500 and it may be long in the tooth that is really worth it.

[@georgeangeloudes9254]

Hi Andrew great review!! I was wandering how does the marantz cinema 70s with external amplifier compares with emotiva soundwise??

[@peterkemper6999]

Here in the Netherlands you can buy the Sony TA AN 1000 for 850 Euro’s. You have a great sound and a lot of features.

[@StevenYoungEtc]

Got two OS updates on the Yammy A8A, so it's thoroughly modern and less expensive now if you buy a new one.

[@chrishamilton5960]

I was contemplating this receiver last year cause I didn’t need HDMI 2.1 support but was aware of how buggy their interface was. I ended up with a used Integra 4.3 which supported 11 channels and added a used Rotel amp instead.

[@enflight4401]

Thanks! For me this review was perfect timing. Helps me make a more informed decision on my next purchase. On another note. I recently watched your episode on Nostalgic for CDs!? What's your opinion on best products for CD listening? A standalone CD Player like the Marantz CD6007, a CD player/streamer like the Marantz SACD 30n or a Home Theater Disc Player such as the Magnetar UDP900?

[@Crandish99]

Emotiva is like a “budget” McIntosh philosophy to me. Which I’m glad that exists. I’ve owned many of their products and mainly separates (amps) from them and for the money they simply cannot be beat. I love it. Sound IS more important to me for almost everything. But when it comes to an AV receiver, the point of one is to be an all in one system/hub for current technologies. So that being said, these Emotiva receives make me scratch my head.

[@onepurpose315]

Hey Andrew! I noticed in the thumbnail you used DTS neural X but in some of the B roll you used Dolby surround, which upmixer do you prefer(and why)?

[@muzammelhaquemukul7089]

Marantz Cinema 70 and add emotiva bass x a7. It’s the perfect combo.

[@AverageNiceGuy]

Your advice has helped me tremendously. Thank you. It has saved me from many bad decisions. 💸 I've finally done a 2.1 system upgrade, and I can't stop smiling 😁 I'm finally moving from my near 20 yr old used Marantz SR7002. New is EMOTIVA XDA-3 DAC, and XPA-DR1 Monoblock's with old SVS SB-1000 sub

[@robinsonbrand]

So happy to hear that! Enjoy your system!

[@kenhiett5266]

The comparison to a retro V-8 muscle car is spot on. I would have been happy with a receiver like this a couple of years ago, but I've moved on.

[@robinsonbrand]

What did you move on to?

[@kenhiett5266]

@@robinsonbrand I do my 2 channel listening in a separate room, so I went with Marantz Cinema 50. Emotiva makes some very good amps for the money, but I'm a sucker for things like pretty binding posts.

[@unstablenetwork4744]

Another great review. Thank you A&K. Honest reviews on a brand that you like can be difficult. I hope Emotiva will take it to heart and not have any hard feelings. Perhaps their new speaker lineup will be hitting home runs!

[@KristiWright]

We'd love to review their speakers but haven't been offered a pair yet.

[@maxpower78-15]

Yes!!! My 93 Mustang GT loves your muscle car analogy!! Great review. Totally fair. I love emotivas sound in my stereo. Still love my marantz preamp for the home theater. Cheers you 2!

[@robinsonbrand]

Thanks so much! We can't gloss over obvious omissions.

[@maxpower78-15]

@@robinsonbrand full disclosure i havent used the hdmi functionality of the xda3 preamp. Only coax and analog.

[@robinsonbrand]

@@maxpower78-15@maxpower78-15 in our experience, the HDMI functionality of the XDA3 is buggy at best and unusable at worst. We went through two units, both performed the same so we decided not to waste our time, which sucks because I was really excited for the XDA3 (arguably more so than the MR1L).

[@BryanRuby]

I don't think there could be a more fair review of the Emotiva MR1L than this one here. Personally, when all things are equal I'll choose the AVR with the better sound quality but unfortunately for the MR1L lacks way too many features.

[@gavriushka]

Lovely piece of equipment for those who aren’t into gaming at all. It’s for a different audience, although I honestly don’t understand how much more expensive would’ve been to just bloody include 2.1 ports.. like would it make such a huge price difference that would make this thing obsolete price wise? Or maybe not as competitive with the likes of Marantz or Onkyo?.. yeah, I don’t think current Emotiva management is thinking straight enough.. great video, as always! “Drive that hifi boat up a mountain” got me laughing lol loved it!

[@jamesmichael900]

CFO: Team, I know the engineers are begging us to move to something more current, but we have to sell through all of these outdated boards that we have still sitting around. Upper management: Just keep using it and tell them they don't need any of that fancy new stuff! Worked with the MR1. They'll buy anything as long as we convince them modern tech doesn't matter when we're givin' em all that power for 5 bucks.

[@gavriushka]

@@jamesmichael900 haha! Although, it’s not really 5 bucks either… at 1599, there is a sea of options out there, most of them, if not all, have 2.1 ports and plenty of power. More than enough to drive pretty much any home theater setup. So yeah, still kinda scratching my head on this one

[@jamesmichael900]

​@@gavriushka Oh, I know that! It's when you preach power, power, power (or cheap, cheap, cheap), a lot of audiophiles I swear willingly tune out everything after that, especially if you have reviewers who just read the specs, wave the product around, shout 'best thing ever', and then let product reps come on for a free press tour if anyone starts asking too many questions.

[@gavriushka]

@@jamesmichael900 I get your point!

[@rjschuler2205]

Emotiva...still putting out products with the same HDMI and audio issues that plagued the UMC-1, which was released 14 years ago now. Moved on to Anthem for the processing, and was immediately happier. Still rocking the UPA-5 power amp though. It sounds great paired with mid-range AV gear. Basically, the hesitant endorsement of this product sums up precisely how I feel about Emotiva processsing products.

[@Goose_Lord]

Excellent review, and really appreciate the candid conversations it contains. I'm honestly shocked so many people are up in arms over hdmi 2.1. There are so many easy ways around that; like e-arc, an hdmi splitter, or an hdmi matrix from ezcoo & hdfury. For a dedicated home theater, power, clarity, and processing are most important. This delivers 13.2 channels of processong, with tons of power and clarity in the 9 amp channels. PEQ for all. If using a projector like me (benq X3000i) then HDMI 2.1 is most likely irrelevant as well. 4k 60hz is plenty for couch gaming. The marantz cinema 70 only processes 7.2 channels. The RZ50 goes into protection at rediculously low levels of power. The 13.2 channel sony is 2.5x the price in Canada while emotiva is running this 25% off sale. You also cant really do any manual eq on the sonys as far as I know, and I've heard very mixed reviews on the whole sony room correction. The Yamaha A8A is even more expensive than the Sony! Really no way to get 13.2 channels for anywhere near this price. Even at 11.2 channels of processing the emotivs is the cheapest option I've seen in fhe last few months. The Denon 3800 made it to $1,800 CAD which is close and offers 4 sub channels and auro 3D up mixer. Less power, but still solid amplification.

[@adamlink7561]

Thanks for another great Sunday morning! I’ve never owned emotiva I think in the right space they would be amazing but there is just something about them mainly aesthetics, that keeps me from buying. But an audible pop and crackle is out of the question.

[@robinsonbrand]

Their look is definitely a love/hate proposition. Appreciate you watching!

[@BartAssink]

How important is the receiver when I use a good and capable amplifier. For example why choose the Marantz cinema 40 over the cinema 50 when I place it before the amp10? Cheers 👋🏼

[@maxpower78-15]

All Right!! Happy sunday.

[@robinsonbrand]

It's official! Sunday can begin 😂

[@KristiWright]

Same to you.

[@feiyulu]

I'm using RZ50 with an Emotiva BasX amp to power the bed layer in a 7.2.4 setup, and it costs less than this receiver. I agree with you guys, Emotiva kinda killed the appeal of its own receiver by pioneering in the quality affordable amp market. Now that you can get very good amplification for less than $100/channel, why not get a avr/processor with more features, and decide however many channels you want external amplification separately?

[@marklloyd4153]

I and you both know I love my RZ50 . I like the Emotiva . If you can from what I understand you saying is you can add amplification to all channels is a big deal if I am understanding you correctly. If they can eliminate the mentioned pops I will buy one . O . I forgot about the Cinema 70 . As Rosanna Rosanna Danna.once said , never mind

[@theoracleprodigy]

Both but I do have separates and don't play games on the theater system. That might change in the future, so it's probably not as important for me to have the latest hdmi. Also I have a phono preamp separate from my processor even though it has the ability. My prior av didn't have a phono stage though. The popping issue would bother me. Rocking Anthem avm 70 and never had slowness issues.

[@AA-ws3vd]

Great point that not all mixes are created equal. The hardware we use cannot make up for that quality.

[@m4nc1n1]

Thought about getting the Cinema 50, but not sure if it could beat my AV7705 in processing.

[@jamesloh987]

If I don’t need HDMI 2.1, is there anything comparable or better at the $1,200 price point?

[@fonkenful]

To answer the question”poll” question; ideally, both. Hafta admit that I’ve been more than slightly enticed by the emails from Emotiva announcing their current (limited time?) offer of 25% discount on the two receivers, but your comments re the sluggish input lag and other quirky issues certainly give me pause. Having recently become a fan of miniDSP, the inclusion of any amount of internal PEQ is appealing, but I may just need to stick with my RZ 740 and add a Flex HTx and external amps for fine tuning both multiple subs - which I found to be a definite improvement in my own use case - and the main surround bed layer. Once you’re over the learning curve on the miniDSP’s DC and REW, the flexibility is a delight. Cheers. And for F’s sake Emotiva, please put the calibration mic input on the front panel!

[@TJPavey]

Since video is the thing that changes more often, we really need to rethink how equipment and separates work. We should have a stand alone video switcher that sends video to display with eARC and audio to the AVR/preamp. Since I’m probably not requiring my speakers I don’t really care about starting caught up with the latest audio as much as I do with video. If I could have a rock solid HDMI switcher with just one cord to the TV and another to the AVR I could just replace said switcher every few years.

[@T100ley]

What I look for in a AVR in 2024, great sound, followed closely by surround sound processing for the immersive experience and Pre-outs. I’m looking at you Sony, that’s the bench mark for me. I agree with you. Personally, I don’t care about gaming, and I have a Rotel 5 channel power amp w/125 WPC so I have plenty of power.

[@ramonbmovies]

Basically, the MR1L is a carbon copy of the MR1, only with support for 2 speakers FEWER. I have the MR1, which is a true beast with tons of power. I'll try to post an updated review of my MR1 in the next month. Dialog for home theater on the center channel is perfectly clear - issues rise up if the mix that the movie producers sent is bad - It's not the fault of the unit. Pretty much everything Andrew says about the newer unit is true of the original MR1, with the exception that I don't get the popping when I switch between streaming sources. In my case that's either DVD, Netflix or KZbin. I don't care about the lack of HDMI 2.1.

[@ryanfromtexas84]

I bought an Onkyo HTIB about 12 years ago (7.1 with a receiver). I recently upgraded my receiver to a Sony AZ5000 and want to upgrade speakers now too (bookshelf form factor) with a budget up to $2,500. Recommendations?

[@codesx100]

Cinema 70 + Power amps is the way to go unless you need more than 7.1/5.1.2. If thats the case Emotiva's high end processors are the way to go, if you dont mind bugs with that, otherwise Anthem AVM70/90. I think emotiva should stick to Amps and their processors, especially on the HDMI 2.1 board/processor plus line to release and fixing all the bugs that will come along with that

[@nickgreg8068]

would you consider pairing an 2 channel DR2 or any Emotiva amplifer with a pair of B&W 801 D4's?

[@leo11877]

BTW you are the only one to do a serious review of this product. All the other reviewers get 👎 for ignoring this ground breaking AVR. They are all running after buzzwords.

[@RR-dr6du]

I sold my Mr1 couldnt stand the pop and static when switchin inputs.. also, a little harsh sounding on highs at loud volumes with klipsch rp 280fs

[@AudioGearhead]

Before I watch the video, I'm really considering this unit over a Yamaha RX-A3080 and Marantz SR8015. Simplicity and functionality. Now let's see what you have to say.

[@Creston.]

Thank you for another great video! Of course a amp with perfect everything is best , but if I had to pick between one or the other? My 2 cents. I think sound and power are more important. Mostly sound.

[@robinsonbrand]

Appreciate you weighing in and answering the question of the day.

[@craigjohnchronicles2504]

I'm surprised Kristi didn't open with, "Here we have another company that released a product, that wasn't ready to be released" - Emotiva releasing an AVR with a known QC "Snap-Crackle-Pop" snaffu issue. Then there's HDMI 2.1 ...it was an industry standard in 2023. Jeezus, someone fell asleep at the wheel at Emotiva.

[@djphat1736]

Why does this lack so many features????? Thank you for the review. I really wanted to like this unit.

[@graysonpeddie]

I do game on my PC and I do not need any streaming services in my home theater receiver. An Emotiva MR1L with eARC might just be the ticket for me. Plus, I do not mind if the menu system looks a bit like a VCR menu. That does not bother me at all. The most two parts of the AVR that is important to me is the sound and power. Other than HDMI 2.1, I do not need any bells and whistles. I even do not use a Hall or Room reverb at all. As I use KZbin Music, my computer can handle all the streaming needs just fine. And so is Zidoo Z9X Pro for movies and TV shows.

[@EmeraldRook]

I'm in the market for a receiver this year and looked long and hard at the MR1. For right now it would be perfect for my situation due in part to my tv being 4K 60. But if I want or need to get a new tv in the foreseeable future I don't want to revisit my receiver. I'm looking at the Marantz Cinema line (likely the 40) instead for shelf life and everyday livability (plus silver). Much costlier but years down the road the price difference will be forgotten and I'll have something much more useful to me.

[@robinsonbrand]

You're looking at things the right way IMHO. Thanks for watching!

[@mvsrpharma]

Thank you

[@TokeBoisen]

The fact that EmoQ (lol) shows you an instant measurement of the corrected response to allow for correction right away is such an obvious improvement over both DIRAC and Audessey. Too bad it seems it's either full-auto EQ or manual PEQ, with no chance to tweak it

[@kevinvanhammee]

do you know about this amp or is it a europe only release? denon DRA-900H hdmi. usb. 2.2 setup . and so on it looks like the real sweet spot what i was looking for. greetings from belgium. Beantwoorden

[@paul11494]

If you look at the on screen menu and the back of the emotiva, iota and tonewinner and there backs that are about the same

[@francescotenti193]

Well, nothing wrong with "retro" V8 engines. Power and sound are most important to me and then looks! The Emotiva, IMO, looks lightyears better than anything else in the market and priced very competitively as well. I am not a gamer so the lack of anything to do with that is meaningless to me as it is the of speed in the initial setup and remote control. Could it be the replacement of my old, very old but loved Cambridge Azur 640R? Tons of power and great sound, its uses are strictly movies and any form of music I can play via my Oppo, it would be a perfect switch, but..... not mentally ready, yet, to retire the Cambridge. Thanks for this review.

[@MichealC]

Hello, great review, So Emotiva made a choice for us that we never ask for about what's important to us. If I'm wrong or miss understand please let me know. Thank you.

[@kadajawi2]

If the streaming is as good as a Wiim Mini, then it is of use. If not, I'd rather get the Wiim. Then integrated streaming becomes useless and a nuisance. I went one step further and got the MiniDSP Flex HT, which omits even more: Support for any bitstream format (like DTS and Dolby Digital), as well as amplification. But I totally get the Emotiva. Sound quality matters more, as long as I can add what is missing and the usability is good enough.

[@user-fe5te6oz2d]

Thank you for the review Andrew. You mentioned that this receiver will send more power to fewer speakers when less than the maximum are connected. Is this true of other home theater receivers?

[@ryanfuller5]

This is true with AVRs that list their power ratings as "ALL CHANNELS DRIVEN". It's telling you the max power output rating given the limitations of the supply. Most amps will output more if more power is available, in this case, less load is more power. That being said, unfortunately, most AVR company's tell you their maximum power output at "2 CHANNELS DRIVEN", which means that is the max output and it will only decrease as you add more speakers.

[@4foxsake604]

XMC-2 owner and I will never buy another Emotiva product at any price. The narrative online is accurate... Always enjoy the reviews though so thanks for taking the time!

[@downwiththesiccknees]

What do you mean? Are you happy with your xmc-2?

[@LeezahB]

Fun episode!!!

[@robinsonbrand]

Oh good! Kristi and I were a little weary this week because people can get really upset (or worse) when taking a more critical look at a beloved product or brand (see our WiiM review 😂). It can get really draining as we try and calm people's anger.

[@diracraj1]

15:02 Yeah.. What she said.. that's exactly what I was thinking!

[@eliotkoppfeldt9422]

Hi Andrew can you make a review on either the Bang & Olufsen BEOLAB 8, 50 or 90. There really are not any in depth reviews when it comes to these speakers.

[@robinsonbrand]

Working on trying to make those all happen.

[@blakkboxx4246]

Hey Andrew good morning. I am one of the person hoping to get a review of the new integra drx 8.4. Thank you

[@robinsonbrand]

We've requested Integra's newest receivers however the folks over at their parent company, Klipsch, really believe those AVRs are installer-only and don't seem to want to send review units. We'll try again. Thanks for joining us this morning!

[@RandySmith-iz1ml]

I would like Emotiva but for those omissions, which for me makes this a no go.

[@stevewright1539]

You never need a given feature until you need it! Licensing aside, a product should provide the most current connectivity options at the time of its release. Not providing HDMI 2.1 ports at this date and time is a head scratcher. This goes for some bigger players as well.

[@omgcool7206]

Andrew, could you do me a favor and make it routine to thoroughly review and show OSDs and menus to demonstrate GUI and features/settings? There are countless reviews of receivers out there, but so few of them show the OSD and available options/controls. If you had a section where you keyed through all of the settings/options, you'd be my one-stop-shop when it comes to AVR research (in combination with the rest of your review format, of course). As it is, it's hard to tell if I'm going to end up with a receiver with a beautiful contemporary GUI and a plethora of adjustable settings, or a 1996 VCR GUI and the most barebones adjustability possible. Back when HDMI passthrough was new I understood why so few reviewers commented on it, but OSDs and settings menus have been an important interaction with AVRs for a long time now, it boggles my mind how almost every review glosses over this!

[@chrisbrown2174]

Sounds like a great receiver until you get to the buts... I think they seriously underestimated the need for hdmi 2.1. I don't game but would hope any receiver in 2024 would make that the standard.

[@tbrian2874]

MR1 owner here since launch. Emotiva is an interesting company for sure. I have the pop when switching. No fix I have updated firmware to solve the no test tone for subwoofer during manual setup. Interesting a public release of that firmware was never sent out. ( at least that I could find) It has strange HDMI dual output characteristics where it will dual output with some devices with picture and no sound or vice versa. No fix. The sound I like. The controls I like Would I buy another emotiva receiver- No. That pop is horrible Would I buy an emotiva amp -Yes. I have 6 of them.

[@shemsureshot]

For an AVR it has to be both. To get the best out of the hardware you need a good operating system that is easy to use, and feature rich.

[@robinsonbrand]

Appreciate you weighing in.

[@user-ej3ii8zm2b]

Good morning Andrew and Kristi.

[@robinsonbrand]

Morning! Thanks for tuning in!