Published On: August 24, 2018

Emotiva RMC-1 16-Channel Preamp Slated To Ship in November

Published On: August 24, 2018
Last Updated on: October 31, 2020
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Emotiva RMC-1 16-Channel Preamp Slated To Ship in November

The long wait is almost over. Emotiva's new flagship AV preamp/processor will finally ship in November.

Emotiva RMC-1 16-Channel Preamp Slated To Ship in November

By Author: Home Theater Review
The staff at HomeTheaterReview.com is comprised of experts who are dedicated to helping you make better informed buying decisions.

To answer your first question: $4,999. To answer your second: November 15, 2018. Aside from those bullet points, it's pretty safe to assume that most home theater enthusiasts are already quite familiar with the Emotiva RMC-1 and all of its capabilities, not to mention the long wait for its release. But on the off-chance that you're not: this follow-up to the XMC-1 boasts an incredible 16 channels of balanced output, with configurations up to 9.1.6 possible, and support for both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, along with Dirac Live room correction for all 16 channels at 96kHz.

Full details, via Emotiva:

Emotiva Audio Corporation, the company that continually proves high-end audio doesn't have be high-priced, today announced that its new flagship AV processor, RMC-1 (SRP: $4,999), will ship to dealers and end-users on November 15, 2018.

Originally previewed at CEDIA Expo 2017, the RMC-1 is a no-holds-barred AV processor that supports the latest Dolby Atmos and DTS-X object-oriented surround sound formats, as well as state-of-the-art UHD 4k video sources.

Emotiva_RMC-1_rear.jpgThe RMC-1 is designed to be the best in its class, with 16 fully balanced channels, including an all-analog preamplifier section, precision 32-bit AD/DA conversion, and an advanced 4K UHD video management system. Eight HDMI inputs and dual HDMI outputs support 2.0b and HDCP 2.2, ensuring theater-like video quality from all 4K UHD HDR and Dolby Vision sources and equipment. [A full list of specifications follows the release.]

"Since we first announced the RMC-1, it has been one of the most requested of our upcoming models, especially by custom professionals who understand the amount of performance and value packed in its chassis," said Dan Laufman, President and Founder, Emotiva Audio Corp. "We achieved our goal of designing and building the best AV processor in our company's history. Of course, we're talking about Emotiva, so the price is drastically lower than what you would expect for such an extraordinary product."

Sonically, the RMC-1 features a full 16 channels of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound (9.1.6 channels), with a decoded audio signal for each channel that is processed by a separate high performance AKM Verita 32-bit DAC, operated in precision Differential Reference balanced mono mode. Support is provided for native audio decoding of single and double-rate DSD digital audio signals, accepted from either HDMI or USB sources.

Analog audio signals are routed by precision circuitry that rivals the most expensive audiophile preamps. The analog signal path features premium audiophile-quality components at all critical locations to ensure the integrity of the audio signal is preserved.

The RMC-1's Reference Stereo mode helps to create a two-channel listening experience that is unparalleled at the price point. Dirac Live automatic room correction, running on all 16 channels at a full 96 kHz sample rate, establishes the perfect synergy between the RMC-1, the listening room, and the rest of the system.

For those who prefer a more interactive user experience, the RMC-1 includes comprehensive 11-band parametric equalization on every channel, in addition to compatibility with the popular Room EQ Wizard room correction and analysis software.

The RMC-1 can be controlled via a powerful yet simple to use menu system that is accessed via front panel controls, the included infrared remote control, or various network remote control options. System status is displayed on dual 64 x 256 front panel OLED displays, and the color on-screen display. Fully modular construction ensures easy updates and service.

Similar to many Emotiva products, the RMC-1 is made in the U.S.A. at the company's headquarters in Franklin, TN.

RMC-1 Features and Specs

      • Audio Capabilities
        • Dirac Live 15.1 or 13.3 automatic room correction system with a GUI for complete system control and adjustment, "on-the-fly," including the creation of your own customized response curve for precise alignment with your individual preferences.
        • Twin Analog Devices Sharc dual-core, 450 MHz DSP engines handle all audio decoding and post processing.
        • 16 audio channel paths with stereo bass management, .1 channel support, and post processing for the ultimate 3D cinema and stereo listening experience.
        • Extensive loudspeaker and bass management options
        • Independent slope rates by channel groupings.
        • Stereo subwoofer support with independent level, distance and parametric EQ.
        • LFE channel support with independent level, distance, and parametric EQ.
        • Selectable dynamic range control.
        • Selectable independent or global 11 band parametric EQ.
        • Support for multichannel 1x and 2x DSD via USB and HDMI.
        • Global bass and treble controls with user selectable turnover points.
        • High performance AM/FM tuner with RDS text information, including artist, category, and title. Also features a signal strength meter.
        • Internal test tone generator with variable frequency.
        • Internal wide-band and shaped pink noise generator.
      • Video Capabilities
        • 18 Gbps video bandwidth with bit-perfect signal switching on all HDMI inputs and outputs. Support formats up to 4k UHD 50/60Hz 4.4.4 with HDR, HDR10, and Dolby Vision
        • Full HDCP 2.2 support on all inputs and main output.
        • ARC and CEC support on primary output.
        • Informative color OSD overlays over live video. Setup menus shown with no interruption or degradation of the native video. Variable opacity, including 4K and 3D sources.
        • Video sub-system uses 3 Panasonic MN864788's.
      • AD/DAC's and Volume Controls
        • AKM AK5572 Verita 32 bit 768k A/D.
        • AKM AK4490 Verita 32 bit 768k D/A's running in fully balanced mono mode.
        • Cirrus CS3318 lossless resistor ladder volume controls for main zone, 0.5dB resolution.
        • Cirrus CS3310 lossless resistor ladder volume controls for secondary zones, 0.5dB resolution.
        • ADI DG333 and DG407 wide-band analog switches for analog routing and switching.
      • Second Audio Zone
        • Independent audio selection from:
          • Balanced Analog In.
          • Unbalanced Analog in 1-4.
        • 5.1 analog down-mix.
        • AM/FM tuner (shared with main zone).
        • USB Audio.
        • 2-ch PCM.
        • Zone 1 sync, including multichannel sources.
        • Analog selections can be used with main zone off.
        • Independent volume control, 0.5dB resolution

Additional Resources
• Visit the Emotiva website for more information.
• Read New Version of Dirac Live Enters Beta Testing on HomeTheaterReview.com.
• Read Emotiva XMC-1 7.2-Channel AV Pre/Pro Reviewed on HomeTheaterReview.com.

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