You Don't Need HDMI 2.1

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0:00 Start
0:07 Intro
2:19 Sponsored Content
3:52 HDMI History
5:13 HDMI Issues
6:20 eArc is the Answer
7:19 8K Gaming
9:07 Disposable Products
11:08 You Don't Need 2.1
11:48 The Future of HDMI and Receivers
17:03 People Care about the Wrong Thing
22:16 Build Matters
26:34 Vintage Audio
29:40 Amp Design
32:22 Summary
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[@cheapaudioman]

Head to squarespace.com/cheapaudioman to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code cheapaudioman Emotiva MR1 Receiver bit.ly/3XHX2lp Support the Channel by Shopping on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK Cheap Audio Man Store Front shop.howl.me/cam Join the best hifi community out there! www.patreon.com/cheapaudioman TRY ROON roonlabs.com/r/RTmYWdCP9kitqouBa5pcIw Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9 Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH amzn.to/3GkNaop CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5

[@MrMoLucky]

Regardless of the nuance of what he’s saying, the fact remains that I want BOTH stellar audio and video. As a potential customer, I want to say that it IS a big thing that you don’t have HDMI 2.1. I won’t even look at a product that doesn’t have it.

[@ytj22]

I've never understood the benefit of using my AVR as a middleman between the source and the TV. Why contaminate the signal coming from the source? I can switch with my TV. Is there a performance benefit to using the AVR for video switching? I recently upgraded my 18 year old Marantz AVR and I wondered how I went so long without needing an upgrade. The answer for me was no HDMI and/or video switching. Earc is the first improvement in that long time span that was worthwhile to me.

[@fotoram]

And that is right, it's you. Not everyone. I have stellar audio. It's called separates and I love it. What I want for my movie viewing is an AVR that will give me the best sound in either Dolby Atmos or DTX X. I don't need 50 DSP settings nor do I need to plug in a gaming unit into my recevier. I look at everything out there because I may be missing something that I may enjoy. There is a lot of forums that give you graphs and reports. I trust my ears. I want great sound and great power to drive my speakers.

[@hobblyjig]

One reason people may resist the suggestion to just plug everything into the TV is that the TV is often located on a wall where it’s hard to run 2,3,4,5 cables to the TV for all your devices. And easy to run them to the AVR that is likely located right next to the other devices and then you only have to fish one cable through the wall to the back of the TV. But not everyone is is that situation.

[@fonkenful]

Which is why I think more TV manufacturers should follow LG and Samsung’s lead and incorporate those multiple connections in a separate small enclosure -i.e. Zero or One Connect, respectively - and there’s certainly no reason such interface boxes couldn’t be modular to accommodate the type of future-proofing to which Dan alludes. Considering the wide diversity of use cases in the “home theatre” market, it must be rather a Sisyphean task for any designer to try and satisfy potential customers’ ever changing perceived needs.

[@SHREDbro]

No… the AVR should just accept all sources and send one signal to the display or PJ

[@fonkenful]

@@SHREDbro or not Randy was quite right, we are a tribal bunch😉

[@fotoram]

@@SHREDbro Don't agree. I don't need to plug in 50 items into my AVR. I'm fine having it go into my flatscreen and then have that plug into my AVR via EARC.

[@heyguyslolGAMING]

FYI, Gaming is the largest source of entertainment in the entertainment industry. HDMI 2.1 is primarily implemented to be used for gaming devices such as consoles and pc's. TV manufactures know this which is why the tech exists and is implemented in modern tv's.

[@3184Patrick]

but for sound which is a receiver's main job HDMI 2.1 is irrelevant. thats the point. Earc 2.0 will do 100% of what is availble for audio right now. 2.1 adds nothing

[@heyguyslolGAMING]

@@3184Patrick Audio requires a fraction of the bandwidth even when running the highest of DSD conversions that is not generally in demand by the majority of consumers. Hi-Res video does require far more bandwidth and as stated the tech is driven by the demand which would be gaming because thats where the $$$ is; "thats the point".

[@fonkenful]

@@3184Patrick A point I think too many bloviators are willfully overlooking? What I find interesting is that many YT reviewer have been gushing over the recent trend of HDMI ARC inputs being included on 2 channel integrated amps - sometimes even with the option of rudimentary bass management. So far all that I’ve seen in that niche category have had a single such input to allow for integration into foundational 2.1 systems, not switching for multiple HDMI sources. Assuming that my nongaming status makes me an outlier in the home theatre tribal community, how do users of such systems switch between multiple sources - i.e. potentially multiple consoles, BluRay/DVD, cable streaming boxes, etc? I think Dan alluded to an upcoming multi-channel AVR with only a single ARC input? I’ll go out on a limb and ask, just how many folks actually even use the AM/FM tuner section of their receiver these days, and how much could be saved by losing that feature? The only time I listen to “radio” these days rather than streaming, is when I’m driving my truck, and even then I get far better reception by streaming the local NPR affiliate’s feed on my phone’s cellular data. Anyways, just some random thoughts. Thanks for the entertainment Randy / Dan

[@TheLazyGamers]

@@3184Patrickhave you seen the amount of lag that eArc causes with gaming devices? We end up having to plug everything into the AVR anyways. Regardless, I use a Sharc to add eArc to my 2016 Denon receiver. After Denon botched its 2020-2021 receivers, I won’t be upgrading until they get 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 ports and support more gaming features in general, as there isn’t anything the new ones can do that mine can’t with eArc shoehorned in if I have to rely on that laggy format anyways.

[@fotoram]

For under 30 and some 40 somethings. I'm more conerned with home theater and music. Don't care about gaming nor do I need it. Power to you if that is what you want, so this product is not for you. Go look at the other hundred other manufacturers.

[@WisGuy4]

Randy, there is some truth to the comments of the critics, both in the comments to your MR1 review and here, that your video on this receiver sounded more like an infomercial than like one of your typically fairly objective reviews. How about doing a follow-up deep dive real review of the MR1? Give us the pros and the cons. Give us specific functions and performance that you liked beyond just the features on the remote control and the display. Tell us what speakers you used with it and what sources you used. You know, the usual CheapAudioman review content.

[@sammy10001]

okay, fair point about the section about "not needing HDMI 2.1". my rebuttal is: What are we doing to do when MOST tv manufacturers, except for LG and Samsung (because they make their own SOC inhouse) use the mediatek chip that only has 2 proper 4k 120 hz ports. And one is consumed by earc. A person with a PS5 and an Xbox cant easly use this option. Only tv maker to ditch earc to another non 4k120hz port was TCL. Are we going to go yell and demand sony, hisense, panasonic, etc change earc to another port - or are we just going to get a 2.1 receiver. We're just going to get a 2.1 receiver.

[@Cujobob]

I want HDMI 2.1 as I game in a home theater… which is fairly typical of modern home theater users. HDMI 2.1 and a good room correction are becoming essential to modern quality AV receivers.

[@fonkenful]

So, does being a 70+yr old home theatre user who doesn’t game - or watch sports, for that matter - disqualify me as a “modern” home theatre user? Having had several decades of fun owning and playing with almost every format of physical media on which music - and later, video - have been distributed since approx the early ‘60s, I’m more than content to dispense with all that, and stream both online, or from a curated music library on home NAS. I very much doubt I’m the only member of such a cohort, and the lack of HDMI 2.1 on both my TV and AVR has yet to be an obstacle to my enjoyment. Your point regarding “good room correction” , though is very well made; as user easy as current routines such as Audyssey, Yammy’s YPAO, Anthem’s ARC, and numerous other proprietary software are to implement, it’s been my experience that most are crude weapons with regards to cleaving the Gordian Knot that each unique system/room presents. Whether intentional or not, Dan and Randy have certainly chummed the water with these pronouncements that have more than a couple of otherwise pragmatic YT reviewers and commenters abuzz. Actually, I wonder if that was the intent. Anyways, let’s not forget these are first world problems, right?

[@Cujobob]

@@fonkenful sure, first world problems, but the products in question are not inexpensive. Dropping thousands of dollars on a product that can’t even fully utilize your current television/projector is a problem. In the very budget range, I can overlook this. The thing is.. when you spend this much on an AVR or Pre/Pro, you’re expecting to keep it for a while. We aren’t talking about future proofing here, we are talking about current generation tech.

[@fonkenful]

@@Cujobob This horse just never gets tired of the flogging, does it? To summarize my comments repeated elsewhere, not all of a”us” HT users have the same use case or considered pathway for potential upgrades. I don’t game, nor any longer play physical media, and am quite content to connect my two sources - cable provider’s player box, and AppleTV4K directly into the TV, and use the ARC function to feed audio to my Onkyo receiver. Thanks to CEC, the cable providers remote can select inputs on the TV, and navigate the programming and apps on either device, and control volume. The TV, receiver and ATV remotes are nearby for the occasions that I feel the need to tweak about with settings - which, let’s face it, we all do from time to time😉 So quite frankly, I’d consider the MR1 an excellent option for someone looking for a solidly built piece of kit that might well suit their needs. If I hadn’t recently invested more that its cost in my Onkyo AVR and there channels of DIY kit ICEpower amp, I might well be one of them. It would have been nice to hide the calibration mike input on the front panel though.

[@Cujobob]

@@fonkenful my comment was what I wanted if I’m dropping the money. I never stated everyone else needs the same so I’m not sure why that’s being debated in response to what I posted. Do you take issue with others having different needs?

[@Cujobob]

@@fonkenful my comment was what I wanted if I’m dropping the money. I never stated everyone else needs the same so I’m not sure why that’s being debated in response to what I posted. I stated it’s fairly typical of modern HT users, it is. That’s simply a fact. Do you take issue with others having different needs?

[@PrezidentHughes]

If you're hardcore into entertainment, it's very inconvenient to use your TV as an HDMI switcher. Unless you have an LG you only have two HDMI 2.1 ports. One is dedicated to eARC so that's out. If you play hardcore PC and console games, you have to get an LG or a good AVR. Plus you need HDMI 2.1 for eARC for uncompressed Atmos. So if you DO care about sound, you need HDMI 2.1.

[@robg8963]

eARC from display to AVR introduces audio lag in gaming. Its almost like the people offering this advice have never tried it.

[@GSP-76]

So sticking with HDMI 2.0b was a cost cutting move..most people plug everything into their receivers and then run one cable to the display.

[@andrewkerr659]

@@Jmack1lla and there aren't any 4k 120Hz sources, apart from a few game consoles. IF I were a gamer and interested in cutting edge performance, I'd go direct into the screen to reduce lag

[@zacharyball9446]

How many video "things" do you need/have? I have one video streaming box going into the TV, and that's it.

[@GSP-76]

@@andrewkerr659 I have a gaming mini ITX PC connected to my Yamaha HDMI 2.1 reciever along with a USB C laptop dock, a Nvidia Shield TV Pro and a 4k Blu-ray player. I have one HDMI 2.1 cable going from the reciever to a 83 inch LG C2 TV. I have never experienced any lag and I regularly game on the home theater. I bought high quality 3ft HDMI 2.1 cables so it was easier to wire mansge everything to the reciever. It's been working flawlessly for me.

[@andrewkerr659]

@@GSP-76 your 4K Blu Ray Player is 120Hz, it's 60. Sending the signal to a 120 screen is beneficial, but should be done at the native 24fps, which allows the 120Hz screen to render it at an even 5 refreshes per frame, as opposed to a 60Hz screen which renders it at 3/2 per frame, which can cause judder. As you pointed out, gaming consoles/content are the only 4k 120Hz sources. There is no non-gaming source for 4k 120Hz, at least not that I am aware of, and nobody is filming in 4k 120Hz.

[@GSP-76]

@@andrewkerr659 Yeah the PC and video card are the only real source for 120+ fps..that was the main reason for me getting a HDMI 2.1 TV and reciever. It's been working out great so far. 120hz is primarily a gaming benefit.

[@annebokma4637]

I won't buy anything that has less then full HDMI 2.1. why, because having higher refresh rates available at higher resolution for gaming and future proving. And no matter what new standard comes out, never buy the first implementation of anything, never be a first adopter. The peace of mind of having the latest tech in my new gear is value too, at least for me. Why buy a new device that doesn't have the present highest standard connection? If you don't care, get an old second hand device and enjoy svhs connection. And ofcourse it is evolving, that is why modern cars don't use pre ww2 engines, would you buy a new car with an engine that is old tech? Heck HDMI 2.1 has been out for a while, not being the first guy doesn't mean waiting to be the last to implement it. E-arc is present in HDMI 2.1, the signal path is not longer between HDMI standards. Cost saving and upgrade cycling is what this is about. Sure it is modular, still replace a module if they ever decide for you that you might need it. How many HDMI ports does your tv have? Between 3 consoles, a PC and the tv box you are out of ports already. A HDMI switcher needs 8 in and 2 out minimum, shure you can connect the pc directly to your tv any time, but if a switcher right now doesn't have the latest standard you will have a problem with the next generation of consoles and TV's. And HDMI 2.1 isn't an automatic increase in price, specially not 2000$ if the rest is the same. This guy is talking out of the wrong hole. For my audio enjoyment I don't use or need HDMI, for video I do need it and want the latest standard at the time of buying the device.

[@sputnik13]

Only problem with using earc to feed the amp is if the tv uses one of its few 2.1 ports for earc and the amp only does 2.0 then you have one less port for 4k@120hz

[@jebo4jc]

The criticisms of HDMI 2.1, the problems the chips have caused, and the argument that output power is more important are all valid. However, as someone with an Xbox Series X and a higher end PC, I could use HDMI 2.1 right now. Also, who's to say we won't be getting 8k/60 videos in the near future. My next components will support HDMI 2.1. To call it a scam or useless is disingenuous. But I guess you got me here. I fell for the clickbait.

[@chrisbaty3824]

This. I've been using it for 2 years with my PC and PS5 already.

[@chrisbaty3824]

@blue wave pretty much every game in the last two years.. do you really not believe there’s many, or something else? Of course my statement goes more for PC games which I spend more time on.

[@damn5987]

@blue wave or less than 4k 60, but without screen tare or VSYNC lag; VRR, ALLM

[@user-pc8tb7hg1lHandlesRDumb]

Well written.

[@budala1969]

@blue wave All of them.

[@tom6363]

I still don't get this new Emotiva avr. For perhaps a pure separates/modular approach and adding missing functions maybe but for mainstream application it is just missing too many functions. I considered buying it but when you see it is missing a radio tuner and just having the basic Dolby and DTS codecs and nothing more it just isn't a compelling case for midlevel HT use. Also I scanned the very basic operations manual and found this: USB Audio (DAC) Input. This input can accept a stereo PCM USB audio input, at sample rates of either 16/44k or 16/48k, from any device that can be connected to “an external USB DAC”. So, with my very limited understanding does this mean it can only process a lossless file up to 48k and only with a use of an external DAC? I could not find anywhere in the specs a section on supported sound files (FLAC, ALAC, etc). I do agree you are getting more and probably better power and 11 channels but it appears this comes without most mainstream functions. For a person that does not care about HDMI 2.1, gaming or 8k support I am disappointed that IMO Emotiva still missed the boat with this avr.

[@A2-RC]

Kind of funny he recommends going directly into the TV and using eARC. He says it’s the most reliable connection but doing that has ALWAYS given me problems with my LG CX! I run all my devices through a Denon D4500H AVR and everything is problem free. Same thing for my older X3300W. My next AVR will have HDMI 2.1 to accommodate the XSX, PS5, and PC! eARC is so annoying.

[@youtubesuresuckscock]

Yup. eARC doesn't even work. This video is bulljive. Emotiva screwed up and over bought out of date hardware and is lying to consumers in a desperate attempt to move it. Pathetic. Everyone involved in disseminating this misinformation should be ashamed.

[@missing1102]

Good listen. Dan makes good sense for somebody my age.

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

Many comments already said all I wanted to say, and probably better than I could. I'm a gamer, so enough said. Thank you for your time, effort, and this info. Looks like your Internet speed issue is resolved. Did you unplug the cable and power cycle the router and modem?😂😂

[@YKLABATYD]

TV Manufactures need to slowly switch to display ports and forget about hdmi. Comparing to PC this industry lags behind like 10 years.

[@blekenbleu]

I guess Dan expects a TV to be on for all HDMI sources, which is not how I listen to most PC audio. Beyond which , my TV lacks inputs for my 5 HDMI sources, excluding the AVR.

[@CaptDistraction]

eARC is plagued with delay issues - I've tried numerous displays with eARC and input devices like xbox series x, apple TV, and others that pass advanced audio by eARC back to a marantz receiver and I rarely am able to get things as simple as youtube TV 2.0 audio to lip sync, with the delay in directions you can't correct in the receiver

[@blunderingknifereviews1028]

I want hdmi 2.1. I game. PS5, Series X, high-end gaming pc. But I do separates anyways, so this product wasn't for me to begin with. In my opinion, Emotiva isn't what it used to be, and this is coming from someone who has owned several generations of their products. When I get ready to upgrade again, I'm going elsewhere, but I wish them the best of luck.

[@youtubesuresuckscock]

Emotiva bought too much hardware that can't do HDMI 2.1 and is lying to consumers to try to move it. Pathetic. Will never buy an Emotiva product knowing this is how they are. Good job on the anti advertisement.

[@JTB--]

Main reason you'd need HDMI 2.1 is if you own an Xbox Series X or PS5 to future proof with a 4K/8K HDTV with HDMI 2.1

[@SasanCooper]

@blue wave But have you seen the new GPUs? 4k @ 120 fps is easily achieved these days.

[@billd9667]

My Apple TV 4K bawls its eyes out whenever I connect less than a 2.1 cable.

[@JohnKelly2]

Nope. My Sony TV has a specific input for the PS5. You plug the PS5 into the TV and then the audio goes to the receiver. Why would you want to add extra signal path and lag by connecting the console to the receiver first, which doesn't process video?

[@Vamon_Kinctuarinwhe]

@@JohnKelly2 Because I don't get lag using my receiver..? Why would you want to introduce lag using eArc from your tv? Does your eArc even work all the time?

[@Jojken]

@@Vamon_Kinctuarinwhe Nice that you do not get lag! Which AVR do you use? I need to buy one this year no later than Black Friday 🙂

[@hobblyjig]

Talk about an inflammatory topic! I do love the idea of modular/upgradable AVRs. Tech moves quickly and the ability to upgrade to a new standard is a good idea. But I don’t know how well it will actually pan out over time. I also agree that when plugging new generation game consoles in, it’s best to go directly into the display to minimize input lag. But that means that you do need HDMI 2.1, just not on the AVR. His statement about making AVRs in the future that don’t even do HDMI switching is probably the best take in this conversation. The issue is that a lot of TVs only have 1 or 2 HDMI 2.1 inputs. I know mine only has 2 and 1 of them is used for eARC so I needed an AVR with HDMI 2.1 just because I needed 2 inputs. I currently have a Onkyo RZ50 and it’s the last AVR I hope I ever buy. Whenever I upgrade next I plan to go with a processor + amp. My RZ50 is already acting as only a processor that feeds the Emotiva monoblocks I like.

[@onemorepsi]

He's right that I probably would plug my PC directly into the tv and use eARC, but that might not be a good option for everybody and we're talking about $2000 or more. Is the price difference of including 2.1 instead of 2.0b really that high? I don't understand why Emotiva has been so adamant about not giving consumers 2.1 when a lot of people clearly want it. 8k60 content is on the horizon and gamers want a minimum of 4k120. This battle against their consumers is pointless. I really wanted to upgrade to a MR1 or separates but its not going to happen while they're selling a premium product with an almost outdated hdmi standard. If they simply haven't been successful in implementing it yet then just saying it's coming in the future instead of trying to tell us we don't need it would be better for PR.

[@budala1969]

BMW X5

[@youtubesuresuckscock]

It's because they still have old hardware lying around that can't do 2.1 and are trying to move it. They're scumbags. After I saw this swill I decided to not buy any Emotiva products.

[@adamiltzsch9522]

This is the first time I've heard of the BasX line receiving 8k board upgrades. Why isn't this plastered all over the site? They might move more units if people knew.

[@Vamon_Kinctuarinwhe]

Kind of a big oof here. I'm playing some games in 4k120p, and it's great. VRR is not something to be pooh-poohed away - try it, and you'll refuse to go back. I'm using both of those technologies now. They are available now. YOU may not care about it conspicuously missing in a product, but gamers do.

[@ytj22]

Can't you still play at 4k/120 if you go direct to TV? And wouldn't that be better?

[@elevationwakesports]

Modern home theater users absolutely need to 2.1 I have several Emotiva amplifiers and love them. I completely disagree that projectors won’t be needed as screen size increases. Projectors / home theater are on the rise. Not many guys using a projector are shooting on a 100” inch screen. We won’t see 120-130-140” panels anytime soon. Even a 100” panel is 10-15k. Running the hdmi straight to the display is a feasible option for many.

[@elevationwakesports]

@Cheapaudioman....... Who doesn't love a prize! keep up the great work..

[@JL-ww8yf]

Honestly, he can spin it all he wants, but dismissing 2.1 just doesn’t make sense in 2023. The other features of the new receiver are impressive, but not including 2.1 is still a dealbreaker. Charging $2K for a borderline obsolete receiver in 2023 just isn't justified. For the kind of money, the average consumer wants to be able to purchase a near "future-proof" receiver. Also, only Emo-Q? Really? give me a break. Not to mention that the insane size and weight would force the average consumer to invest in new furniture just to accommodate it. I'm sorry, but hard pass on the MR1. Unless you make the board upgradeable. But even then, that is more money customers would have to spend. There are plenty of other receivers from other competitors that are simply a better long-term investment. Selling things like that massive Toroidal transformer can only get Emotiva so far. But hey, at least it doesn't cost 8K like McIntosh's new receiver...

[@youtubesuresuckscock]

They screwed up and ordered too many out of date electronics and are lying to try to sell their obsolete junk. They can dance around it all they want but that's what happened. Emotiva just proved that it's completely untrustworthy.

[@dozilla77]

4k 120 is VERY important for gaming. It's a very noticeable difference if you have a Gaming PC , Xbox Series X or PS5. A receiver having VRR capability is worth it as well.

[@dozilla77]

My issue is that I don't have enough inputs on my TV to use the eARC as suggested...

[@0-60STYLE]

The issue I'm having is I have an Xbox I want to run at 4k120... And a PS5... And I only have one eARC on my Sony A80J

[@JayGreezy]

uhhhh there is a difference if you play video games. You can't get 4k 120hz without 2.1. So.....yeah it is necessary

[@vannk73]

"Your streamer's got a streamer." 😂 I love this guy's sense of humor.

[@fungt89]

The explanation was ok from emotiva saying the chips and implementation was reasonable, Yamaha drama is fearsome enough. But when u pay for an expensive TV it should have 2.1 and likewise if u pay alot for a receiver and with the intent for pass through it needs 2.1 otherwise u are buying a disposable product.... Like buying a 2.0 receiver.

[@kirkcunningham6146]

Based on most of the comments, allot of you have forgotten or don't understand why many of us like to go through our Pre-pros and Receivers for video switching... simply put, it's easier. You plug all of your sources into your receiver then one cable to one input on the TV. That's it! If your rack is far away from your TV, it keeps the cable lengths short. You hit the selected input on your receiver or pre-pro and you get video and audio immediately. It also simplifies the programming of the master remote. If you're a gamer then this isn't going to benefit. But for home theater guys and gals, you'll find this is better overall. The tv manufacturers are pushing 8K. It will be awhile before we see multiple 2.1 in our receivers and pre-pros. Home theater people don't need to worry so much about it. 4K@60 is amazing. Enjoy the hobby instead of obsessing over technology.

[@moniack]

My dad got a new Samsung 4K TV and it's input switching is the most convoluted thing I've ever used. I told him to use the reciever to do the input switching, but he won't listen. Of course he never asked me before he bought a home theater reciever and speakers too...

[@kirkcunningham6146]

@@moniack that doesn't surprise me...I have a Sony and it does a pretty good job at switching because it senses the input automatically but is still a pain...

[@youtubesuresuckscock]

Nice theory too bad eARC is buggy as butt and doesn't actually work reliably. You lose.

[@Alvin853]

Well the title is obviously clickbait: You don't nead HDMI 2.1 on your receivers, but you absolutely need HDMI 2.1 on your TV.

[@WisGuy4]

I agree to an extent about the direct connection of HDMI 2.1 components to an HDMI 2.1 display and then run the audio to the receiver via eArc. However, I disagree strongly with his contention that having HDMI switching in a home theater receiver is an obsolete or redundant feature. I have a several year old Epson 1080 P projector mounted in the ceiling of my basement rec room, I paid $399 for it refurbished directly from Epson, and I absolutely love it. For my viewing distance, it has a brilliant display, and I see no need in the conceivable future to upgrade it to a higher resolution. I absolutely need a switching receiver for my set up downstairs. My upstairs TV is situated over the fireplace as are the TVs in millions of households around the country. In that arrangement I again still need my receiver to switch HDMI since all the cables pass through a conduit behind my fireplace up the wall and into my TV. I could use a separate HDMI switch, which I did in the past before acquiring my current Onkyo AVR, but that is an added complication, and an added box in an already crowded area. It’s kind of a Marie Antoinette solution to tell customers just to buy a new and expensive cutting edge item to handle a receiver’s job, all to justify the manufacturer saving a few bucks by cutting out a feature. But when is the last time that any manufacturer in any industry passed on to the consumer the savings its beancounters manage to create by being cheapskates? But I also don’t really have any sympathy for all of the gamers whining and bitching about the lack of HDMI 2.1, which I view as about as important as having a $3000 power cable on one’s amplifier. For the majority of those gamer types, I bet the only human contact they’ve had in the past three years was when the pizza delivery guy accidentally touched the side of his hand passing over the two pizza boxes.

[@Jojken]

I also got an Epson (EMP-TW2000) combined with a Panasonic UT50 both plugged into an Onkyo TX-NR818. I would be using it still if it wasn´t for a recent relocation. There will be a new TV this year and perhaps an AVR, but I will be too lazy to reinstall the old projector and it´s electric ceiling screen anytime soon 😄

[@rickkahl5444]

I still want video switching at the source rather than in the video monitor. I don't like looking at all of my components glowing in the viewing area. It's a much cleaner installation running short cables in my rack from the various sources to my processor, and a single HDMI cable from the processor to the monitor. And yes, a separate streamer like Roku or Apple TV is better than anything built in to a television or disc player, in no small part because they are more likely to become obsolete than the TV will, so it's easier and cheaper to upgrade. I only have redundant streamers because everything comes with apps built in now.

[@redstang5150]

I disagree that the larger panel displays are going to eat into the projector market much. First of all, even a 100" display is small in comparison to the screen that most projector owners have. Secondly, handling a panel that is 80" and up is hard to do, and not easy to install and move around. And thirdly, the e-waste of these giant monitors when they go bad or become obsolete is far worse than a projector. To me, using the TV as the switching device is a step backwards.

[@WisGuy4]

Very good points. I have a 1080p Epson projector that I bought refurbished straight from Epson for $399. At about 14 foot sitting distance, my 110 inch screen looks perfect. I probably could see some very slight imperfections in a few areas if I compared it to a much higher end unit, but I focus on the subject I am watching, not the display itself.

[@ethimself5064]

Checked out Phase Linear and I forgot that is was founded by Bob Carver. Time does fly

[@shawnjohnson6112]

As a installer! The 2.1 has been a nightmare. Most won’t admit it because of a sellers point. Trust me the process has been a nightmare they need to come up with a final standard.

[@CristhianSerrano]

I would love to try emotiva products, I unfortunately as a designer cant get over the looks , I know its shallow but its true

[@phildavis3105]

This was so refreshing to hear: the TV should be HDMI switch, and modular, upgradable design. A few years ago, there was a serious flaw in the TI chipset used in the vast majority of AV receiver brands. HDMI sources would just drop in and out. You could get that fixed for $500 plus two way shipping. Soured me on the whole hdmi concept for a very long time. I did backflips running wire to make my tv the focal point and just connect via optical just to avoid hdmi connections. Perhaps with e-arc and this strategy I’ll “invest” in a new AV receiver. And that comment about the big companies having someone stationed at the standards committees? All true. I was that guy for a $36 billion company.

[@diazea4294]

Workarounds are always suggested by those missing the feature. You really don't want to be in the position of justifying why you don't have the latest standards with your latest gear.

[@lowstryder1022]

Maybe more audio hardware manufacturers should look into a more modular approach like NAD. This way you could swap out the video board based on your needs. Unfortunately NAD is usually pretty behind on the video side of things.

[@joelcarson4602]

You would need a unified connector and protocol standard that the manufacturers all adhered to, which I don't see happening. It would probably have to actually be PCI Express x1 or x4 connectors at least for video routing or processing. I'm surprised that SPDIF and HDMI have managed to be as semi-adhered to as it is. If the PC makers had their way, it'd be Displayport or the highway.

[@lowstryder1022]

@@joelcarson4602 I was thinking more like the individual company would have their own proprietary boards and connectors like NAD does/did. PCIe would be established and convenient but not absolutely necessary. However, I posted my comment before I heard the part where he talked about this receiver being built modularly so maybe there is some hope that a board could be swapped but no details were given. Of course we know all manufacturers would not do this. It does cost more and everyone would have to engineer their products in a way that accommodated a universally sized board to be able to fit your premise. Modularity could be left to the more audiophile/videophile companies which usually have a price premium anyways with a significantly smaller clientele. DisplayPort would be cool to include but, again, you won’t get widespread adoption of that anytime soon if ever. Definitely a PC thing which is also niche

[@WeeWeeJumbo]

Well, I do, because 4K/120 is a real thing in the real world

[@Vamon_Kinctuarinwhe]

@blue wave 60p vs 120p is very obvious.

[@roeland1205]

I do desperately need functioning HDMI 2.1 unfortunately. The problems are inexcusable.

[@12schnsaint]

whether it's today or tomorrow 2.1 is the future. sorry. your favorite brand cough emotive needs to get with the times. Sony just brought out three new receivers that will crush emotiva.

[@welderfixer]

Randy/Dan, I am so glad that the two of you produced this video! I agree with Dan about everything he brought up. I thoroughly enjoy having dual HDMI ports on my Blu-Ray player, one dedicated to video and the other for the audio. My TV is an older 1080p without E-Arc, so I have no experience with that feature, nor do I think I would want it. I wish my XBox had split outputs. I also, wish that I could buy a simple 75" monitor without all of the "smart" crap. Dan mentioned that issue with the common AVRs and all of "sticker" features. It seems like too much poo in small bag. Who uses all of those features anyway? I am eternally grateful to a great friend of mine that gave my family his old Onkyo AVR that we use and enjoy everyday. It doesn't have many extras and that's a good thing, less to go wrong. As much as I would like an Emotiva MC1 system I'm going to continue to be very happy with the Onkyo for a long time. Sorry Dan, being flat broke is not fun, but it is humbling. Randy, As far as you being close to Dan/Emotiva, I'm glad that you are friends with Dan and his team. There is no shame in that. Being friends with someone means that you can be 100% honest with each other like you do with the Emotiva products. The best part there is the fact that the folks at Emotiva genuinely takes everyone's input, good or bad, into consideration. So, my friend Randy, go full steam ahead and don't let the detractors cause to deviate from course. All my very best wishes to both of you, Kevin

[@ytj22]

Well said

[@leonardopapantoniou4227]

HDMI 2.1 pass 8k 60 hz or 4 k 120 hz. Future of tv and games

[@lowstryder1022]

@blue wave you can play a game in 8k right now with a rtx4090… with about 15-20fps 😂 Edit: Modern day AAA games that is. Say you play a several year old game. RTX4090 could max out that 8k 60hz in some of those games I’m sure. 4k 120hz will be the standard for the majority in the years to come. Things are more expensive. 8k could be a dud

[@leonardopapantoniou4227]

@blue wave in 2011 I bought a 4K 30 fps receiver and nowadays looks old fashioned being 60 fps the standard

[@Jojken]

@@leonardopapantoniou4227 My Onkyo TX-NR818 has exactly that limitation - 4K30 - so maybe I can use it for film (24p) and TV-series (30p) for a while longer 😄 Naah, I would want HDR. It has ARC. Maybe I can use it a bit longer 😊

[@leonardopapantoniou4227]

@@Jojken I use splitter

[@gregreynolds6728]

To me, this is where I think the marketing on the Xbox Series x and PS5 is a bit miss leading. They say "up to 4k 120". The up to is the miss leading part. Forza Horizon 5 on a series X only runs at 4k 30

[@p1st0ls44]

4k 120hz is something we can do today. even if the ps5 cant play at 4k 120hz today, It can play above 60hz. only way to do that is with hdmi 2.1. we need hdmi 2.1 on everything. from an audio perspective ya, its not that big a deal.

[@lowstryder1022]

@blue wave Why only PS5? Why not Xbox?? Halo Infinite, Back 4 Blood, Resident Evil Village, Doom Eternal, Persona 5, Deathloop, Crash Bandicoot 4, etc

[@p1st0ls44]

@blue wave just to play any game period above 60 fps you need hdmi 2.1. i can name god of war, fortnite, cod, ratchet and clank, devil may cry are all the games i own that can do that. also have a 3080 pc plugged into my tv and everything can run at 120fps on that thing. your delusional.

[@Jojken]

@blue wave Hey! It´s called future proofing. It goes with wanting to have all possible options open if you invest in something you will have for the next decade.

[@MusicMovies67]

Emotiva Basx MR1 AV Receiver Is missing quite a bit No HDMI 2.1 No Ethernet For Updates No Dirac Live No Imax Enhanced No Auro 3D Dan mentioned because MR1 doesn't have HDMI 2.1, to add your sources to TVs HDMI inputs, instead of the AV Receivers but you won't get the AV Receivers On Screen Display Info then

[@billhayes5047]

Love the channel, have recently invested in an emotiva basx a2... to add extra channels to the denon 3800h. So I'd like to think I've a balanced opinion. We need 2.1 for 4k @120... as a gamer it's essential. So better to have than not to have. Also it's been around for quite some time eg all previous denons had 1 2.1. This year's now has all. That's progress and should be appluaded. Earc also equally important.

[@danielcaswell9945]

But why not just plug your game system directly into your TV? I have a Denon x4700 with HDMI 2.1 and have never bothered wiith using it. My Xbox Series X is plugged directly into my TV and my TV has an Xbox icon on its GUI to swap to it. I get 4k @120 and don't lose out on anything.

[@billhayes5047]

@@danielcaswell9945 I'm.running to a projector but that's not the point. When you buy, you want to have room to expand ... I the next 5 years I expect to have several more sources .. so want them all through the amp to the picture source.

[@danielcaswell9945]

@@billhayes5047 I guess I don't really expect more sources that require 4k 120hz. I suppose if you are running multiple next gen consoles but that's pretty niche. I'm not saying there isn't a situation where they would be needed but agree with Dan that it really shouldn't impact most people.

[@gregreynolds6728]

My understanding to do 4k at 120 is the game need to support it as well.

[@wemetoffroad1498]

the one thing I don't like about the earc solution is that it become confusing for other family member because now you have two place where to change input.the beauty of an avr is that everything is hookup at the same place and you have lots of input. anyway, hdmi 2.1 is only really usable by high end gaming pc right now.

[@jasonhowe1697]

I find if you happening to be looking at 2.0, 2.1 by the time it is implemented it typically is a because that is 1-2 gen old .. you have to consider original 5.x, 7.x-11.x and all the audio standards from the 90's through what is available from a gamer that still uses original hardware as we have gone up in hdmi spec incompatibility kinda exists you aren't going to 1.x hardware into 2.0/2.1+ hardware, with the wider exceptence the current dolby atmos and dolby vision as a end goal in latest gen hardware let alone how it can apply to decades old hardware I would love to see options with component and s-video in a mix up to current audio and visual specs lonnie I would love av/hdmi switch option only as a go between using av to 1.4 in with 2.1+ output..love to see a avr/processor option where 1 output is used for tv and the other into a streaming pc..

[@chrishoncoop113]

Unfortunately when you have a TV far away from your receiver and components its a terrible battle trying to run many long cables through the wall and then on top of that eARC has been an absolute mess of drop outs, pops, extreme lip sync issue etc on all TVs and audio equipement I have used so far.

[@ifixpets]

I am unboxing my MR 1 while watching this :)

[@welderfixer]

You lucky dog!!! Enjoy it!

[@PaulTheFox1988]

My biggest complaint about hdmi 2.1 is the ridiculous optional feature list, and almost all of the features of 2.1 are optional, so you can have a certified 2.1 device with almost none of the features that make it 2.1 I have a marantz nr1711 and maybe it's because it's a later rev or because I don't use 4k 120 or 8k 60 that it's been almost rock solid, it's a shame it had the issues you had cause I think it's a great receiver. I like having hdmi pass through to the output, because I hook everything into the avr and from there into a capture card, and from there into my tv, My setup would not work with eARC only, and I don't notice any additional latency, and honestly it's much more reliable than what I had before and I'd be upset and frustrated if I only had eARC.

[@JoshFisher567]

What's shady is the HDMI forum has said HDMI 2.0 no longer exists. Yet, in addition to that ALL 2.1 "specifications" , or were originally supposed to be are ALL now optional. There are already cheap Chinese gaming monitors being sold as 2.1 but do zero 2.1 features. I'm like you, not a gamer and don't care about 8K and eARC can be done with 2.0b anyways. TV manufacturers came out with TV's that did eARC before the first 2.1 TV came out. That and eARC syncs the audio with the video. Well, any half way decent TV does anyway in my experience.

[@PaulTheFox1988]

@@JoshFisher567 yeah that is absolutely ridiculous, you can't have standards that aren't standards Don't get me wrong I am a big gamer, I have hooked up currently a Nintendo switch, a PS1, PS2, OG Xbox and a PS5 to my avr, but I'm not a competitive gamer so high refresh rates and super low latencies I leave for my gaming pc and everything else is just fine at 4k60 or below. I definitely agree though, 2.0b is probably enough for most, and the hdmi sig should get their house in order cause it's become a complete mess.

[@RandySmith-iz1ml]

Great video, I love EMotiva principals, will be buying their products in the near future.

[@joelombardi4907]

I'm still using a Marantz receiver that's about 15 years old. It has HDMI 1.1 repeating and 1.3 switching...lol..I just can't get rid of it. I have a 5.1 setup with a 4K OLED TV.. It still sounds so good and built like a tank. Any apps from the TV (Netflix/Disney/amazon prime video) sound great with a toslink from TV to AVR. My Panasonic 4k player has 2 HDMI out. The one for audio goes straight to the receiver. The receiver is so old that it doesn't decode Dolby HD or DTS MA. The player decodes and sends PCM to the receiver. The sound is phenomenal, in my minimalist 5.1 setup. I don't game, so I'll be keeping this receiver for as long as she goes. Also don't have room for an atmos setup, so that is moot also.

[@joelombardi4907]

@blue wave In my small room, it sounds really good. Even 2.1 channel for music sounds great.

[@nacarp2000]

Got to say other than the power cord I only want 1 hdmi going to my TV, more than that is ugly clutter. Best have everything go to a box in the rack and just one cable to the display.

[@theankh6532]

Many valid points made, but I come from the tech industry. Digital standards change constantly. Look at wireless networks standards (802.11, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n, etc...) or USB standards (usb1, usb1.1, usb2, usb3 gen 1, usb3 gen 2). If you are going to support digital standards change comes with it. Sounds like an engineering opportunity. It's a shame to hear companies like Schiit or Emotiva act like HDMI is something new or outlandish or just too much trouble to bother with. Thanks for the interview.

[@scottbaylor6215]

Good interview, loved the back and forth even if I'm not the target audience. Two-channel all the way.

[@HeavyBeats24]

I hope they offer smaller avr!s and processors. 11 channels us just over kill for a lot of folks. I personally rock a 3.1 :)!

[@davidfield2503]

Dan is genuinely interesting to listen to in the interview. Thx.

[@drewpknutz1410]

Is there anyway you can bump up your audio a little? I have a POS Chromebook and the speakers suck, I know I could wear my headphones but I live in the ghetto and need to hear if somebody is kicking in my door.

[@10ny10]

Want to order this thing but what I really want to know, how does the emoQ results compare to Dirac? Does the HDMI switching work well? Is the earc stunted @ 18gb if you have a 2.1 cable w/ 2.0 port? Can I pull out the Spotify app and connect to the receiver? I’m not concerned with 8k or auro 3d. Have auro and never use it. All but dead. But if your not future proofing it has to do all these other things really well ie. music and movies. Can’t believe I’m saying this but the RZ50 is in the mix. That battle comes down to who can do the 7.2.4 the best driving two front 4ohm speakers ie. the T2’s that are in the mail. 😉

[@colossusrageblack]

HDMI 2.1 allows for 120Hz at 4K, so basically unless you have a TV that supports it and a PS5, XSX, or high end PC, it really does nothing for you. Also, most HDMI cables fail to meet the 2.1 standard, even when they say they are. You pretty much have to stay below 6ft for the cable to work at 2.1 bandwidth levels.

[@markverhoeven7518]

HDMI 2.1 allows for 120Hz at 10K

[@ImDembe]

​@@markverhoeven7518 Can't even do 8k60 without DSC so not naitivly. 4k144 is no problem and that will be the standard for a while, 8k feels very far away since most stuff in life aren't even 4k. The tv world should kick HDMI out and get on the displayport train,

[@colossusrageblack]

@@markverhoeven7518 I'm just saying 8K @60 and 4K @120 for the vast majority.

[@colossusrageblack]

@@ImDembe DP on TVs would be great, but does it transfer audio?

[@ImDembe]

@@colossusrageblack It dose audio but not ethernet (as standard) and im not sure DP have something similar to Arc since no tv have the port and is used in high refreshrate computer monitors. DP's ace in it's sleeve is that you can send video and audio via USB-C, like Macbook Air M1 comes with dual thunderbolt that handle both audio and video via "DP-protocol.

[@bassandtrebleclef]

Still using an old Panasonic plasma tv in my bedroom - It's gotta be 16 years old. 1 HDMI connector connected to its input for Roku. Audio out via toslink from the tv to a Cambridge Audio AVR that I bought cheap due to - wait for it - it's semi-functional HDMI ports. Zero latency. I'm not a conspiracy theorist, but it doesn't take deep thinking to see that HDMI added complexities and unreliability to an ecosystem that worked well prior to its arrival. Sure has been great for manufacturers to sell nonsense upgrades though.

[@danielwander605]

“Constantly evolving and never finished. Always fiddling with it….” Hmm, reminds me of a certain processor I used to own and returned. And the HDMI syncing and switching issues was the main reason I sent it back. They’ve always been behind when it comes to HDMI and continue to be, so to me it comes across as spin when it’s said “you don’t need it.”

[@armstrongphysiotherapy5099]

My MR1 is on the way to Australia as I write this. Looking forward to it.

[@poolboy2179]

This was A great conversation!

[@mcbowler]

I need 4K 120… but that’s because I play video games. Other than that, no , hdmi 2.1 is not necessary.

[@JohnScheppler]

Listening to Dan talk about Emotiva and the competition reminds me of the movie Tommy Boy. They guarantee it because they know all they sold ya was a guaranteed piece of sh*t. That's all it is. Hey, if you want me to take a dump in a box and mark it guaranteed, I will. I got spare time. But for right now, for your sake, for your daughter's sake, ya might wanna think about buying a quality item from me.

[@edholmwood]

Very informative video. Practical info and tech that makes sense. Ignore the tribal audiophile/home theater know-it-alls. They give the hobby a bad name and keep people from enjoying it and joining in. Dan is a great guy.

[@user-pc8tb7hg1lHandlesRDumb]

It’s basically 4k 60 vs 4k120 only important for high end gaming.

[@SHREDbro]

Projectors don’t have enough inputs for all my sources, and ai don’t want it to be the switcher. AVRs are much better at this.

[@whocares0503]

I think it's important but that's my take... Want to bet me you can see a difference between 60hz and 120hz refresh rate in 4k?? Plus I like using only one HDMI cable through the wall, maybe I will run right to the TV, we will see... And I own an Emotiva XPA 11 Gen 3 amp and an RMC-1 from the bring out the dead sale! I love the sound and sound is quite important to me. He is wrong that is a scam sorry... Is HDMI evolving always? You bet!!! But worth it yes... sorry... And yes eArc is big deal and I appreciate the steps taken by Emotiva to implement it. I appreciate Emotiva's commitment to modularity, and I don't will not have to pay Trinnov pricing... But 2.1 HDMI is a thing...

[@cheapaudioman]

I was the one that said it was a scam. Not Dan. And it's really just a click title to stir up some controversy

[@whocares0503]

@@cheapaudioman I went with it and I will adjust my verbiage. :-) I mean, like you, I am realist. Emotiva, Schiit etc. offer incredible value and I buy from them whenever I can. Something not always known? Emotiva let's me use AFFIRM for interest free to super low interest payments! It's how I bought my RMC-1 and my XPA 11 Gen 3 amp. I believe in Emotiva and put my money where my keyboard is!

[@DavidCNavas]

The reason to care about 2.1 is the fomo of disposable/non-upgradable products. I think it isn't a problem here because of the ethos. Probably different problems I'd point to when it came to Emotiva. It's all a matter of what you can accept, but I think if 2.1 really bugs you, wait the six months....

[@DavidCNavas]

I have no idea what this means 😂

[@MrThamahn]

cheapaudioman - I was kind of thinking you were a shill after your MR1 review. Your review was glowing and did not really focus on the issues that most everyone else considered shortcomings. Thanks for bringing on Dan Laughman and asking harder questions. Dan Laughman - I am in the market for a receiver upgrade. I am interested in the MR1. Respectfully, I do not want to use my HDTV as a HDMI hub. I can wait for the modular 8K update for the MR1. I would like to see a 4K resolution at 120 Hz on the MR1. Thank you for this interview and update.

[@adamj1326]

My reciever isn't 2.1 and it isn't much of an issue. I plug my ps5 and xsx directly into the TV. Fortunately, my LG C1 has 4 hdmi 2.1. If it was like Sony tvs with only 2 and one being arc then I'd need a receiver with 2.1. The only problem I have is using arc when watching blu-ray on my consoles is lip sync doesn't seem to work correctly

[@edverbeek6292]

Two great guys talking about great stuff. 👍

[@GadZookz]

In these shamelessly wireless times, HDMI is our last best hope for a wired future. So hold on to your cables because the future will be even wireder! 🤩

[@geraldmcmullon2465]

Computers are going Thunderbolt and display port. My new 65" monitor has no ARC or eARC output. I use a HDMI debedder to output 8 channel analogue audio.

[@memoryerror]

I think "side-by-each" is a Canadian thing.

[@ComputerGeeks-R-Us]

Great video! I have had great flagship AV receivers become obsolete due to the ever-changing video switching standards. I like the idea of having the monitor do the switching and let the receiver use ARC/eARC to handle the bitstream audio signals. If they're going to change the video standard, it's likely that the display will need to be upgraded to properly take advantage of it and present it on screen anyway.

[@James_Vaughn]

HDMI on an AVR is not really necessary, but it's not a scam. It's nice to have when they can actually make it work, which seems to be the bigger problem. I'm more upset that most new home theater/audio equipment in general still only comes with 10/100 ethernet and/or old WiFi standards. Gigabit ethernet is not new or unreliable, and can't cost that much more . 10/100 is basically ancient tech now.

[@IRON_PANDA]

100% facts. Had crazy problems with not hearing audio/not seeing image at all on PS5, i have a Yamaha HRT-2071 AV receiver and a Sony Bravia 4K tv. Had previously everything hooked up (TV/PC/PS5) to the AVR. Switched everything to the TV and took a HDMI to the AVR's eArc. ALL problems went away. eArc is literally a game-changer.

[@memoryerror]

I would like to see Emotiva and Dirac work together.

[@tgarfner3020]

Wow Randy, what are pro level move. For real, mad props. The redirection with the dr. Pepper at the moment that the man is discrediting your entire philosophy on cheap chinese audio equipment. GENIUS

[@carolineleonard8214]

What does 'mad props' mean? (I'm not from USA)

[@jeffjefferson7384]

I hate the confusing forest of HDMI standards (confusing AF if you're buying an older AVR), but HDCP I hate even more since around 2007.

[@mocomike01]

Love when I'm told I'm wrong for wanting something. Especially when I'm the one willing to fork over my extremely hard earned money for it. Oh, and other companies are willing to give it to me. Go ahead and keep making your outdated products, just please don't tell me how I'm wrong for wanting better

[@danblack4564]

Dan said Reliability...... Hahahah.

[@michaelwright1602]

I have quite a few Emotiva pieces laying around the house, and they all still work. Oldest one was purchased in 2008 I believe, his XPA 2. I sold my buddy my XPA 3, and he uses it daily.

[@danblack4564]

@@michaelwright1602 not talking about their other products, just their track record with their processors.

[@michaelwright1602]

@@danblack4564 They have come a long way since the first one. I have followed Dan and Emotiva since at least 2006/7. I watched the travails of Emotiva attempting to bring a processor to market. Not an easy thing to do. Going from building amps and speakers to an AVR is not something that is easily done. I can only imagine the hurdles that had to be jumped through, along with the capital needed to even get in the arena with the likes of Sony, Onkyo, Denon, Marantz, etc. I have to applaud Dan and his team, their processor products are evolving for the better. If I was still in the HT game, I would not hesitate picking up their latest model, damn steal at $1999.

[@Upscaled_HT]

I agree. If you care about watching movies or listening to music, then HDMI 2.0 is all you need. If you are a gamer, 2.1 is valuable, but personally, I’m fine with 4K60.

[@youtubesuresuckscock]

It's not even about high refresh rates and 8k as much as it is about variable refresh.

[@Road2Rally]

Emotiva is an awesome company and I love the way that they design all there products and support renewed products. everyone wins

[@Durkhead]

Usb c is going to replace hdmi very soon

[@dougbulldog9947]

When everyone has products with HDMI 2.1 they will probably introduce a new HDCP standard chip, meaning consumers will have to upgrade again. Just like my Sony STR-1050 has HDMI 2.0 but it doesn't support HDCP 2.2, this HDMI crap drives me freaking nuts and the HDMI ports in devices are fragile, easily developing faults if knocked around or after switching cables a few times,

[@user-jj4dz6tr1t]

He’s right about connecting straight to the source for best signal, but why is there hdmi 2.1 if it’s not necessary? Emotiva preamps are buggy as heck so he probably doesn’t want 2.1 because it could make things even worse for Emotiva.

[@BryanRuby]

I think a lot of the comments are a reaction to this video's headlines, "HDMI 2.1 is a SCAM!" than the content in this video. This headline isn't true and diminishes the great content in your video. I think the focus here is given the benefits of eARC whether tomorrow's AVR should even do HDMI output (switching). In my opinion, a headline like "8K TVs with eARC do HDMI better than your AVR" would have made this a reference video for years to come.

[@BryanRuby]

@blue wave How much content is available today is irrelevant, it's about what the customers want in their equipment to "future proof" it. I have no plans to set up a home theater beyond 5.1.2 speaker setup but that doesn't stop me from looking for an AVR capable of a 7.1.4 setup. Just because the features aren't being used today doesn't make diminish the importance of having said features.

[@catminister1075]

Given the choice of amplifiers to pair with my Pioneer VSX LX-505 I avoided Emotiva products and their hype like the plague and chose a Tonewinner amplifier instead, even though hardly any of the Highend audio reviewers are talking about anything other than Emotiva.

[@briancampbell7712]

Yes HDMI is a scam for 2 channel but never been for multi channel🤪

[@brixiu5]

Man, home theater content just seems like a mess.