So I picked up a refurb'd umc200 (no discounts on refurbs which was a bit of a bummer).

It's a really nice performing unit, however I was bummed as mine had an issue with one of the HDMI inputs as it wasn't passing a clean signal. So I'm sending it back but unfortunately no new units will be available until late May now. So I may try the anthem mrx 300 or an outlaw 975.

I will say that performance wise it works well, some light popping when changing inputs but the video and audio was quite good. I'm wondering if the popping on mine was related to the HDMI board.

The popping is (was) a common HDMI switching issue, proper audio muting during switching is a design issue that all modern HDMI a/v gear seems to have gotten a handle on quite well. Could have simply been associated with the defect in that unit's video board.

Have you considered the outlaw model 975 AV Sound Processor. Great reviews. $549.00

30 day money back guarantee.

outlawaudio.com

Actually going to give that one a whirl next.

I do have to say the performance of the emotiva is nice, it's a bit on the brighter side audio wise, but nice sounding. The video pass through also leaves a clean signal.

Noticed tonight however upon start up all sorts of little popping noises also. Again, thinking that is HDMI related.

Hoping the Outlaw is quieter in this regard.

I'm glad you posted this. I'm facing a similar decision between Anthem & Emotiva. I'm leaning towards waiting for th Emotiva XMC-1 to launch. I may not want to wait that long. I'm also considering the Sherbourn (Emotiva's sister company) PT-7030. Anyone have any thoughts with the Sherbourn thrown into the mix? I have Triton Two's for front, a SuperSat 60c as a center and a pair of SuperSat 3's at the rear. I'm planning on going with either a Sherbourn or Emotiva 5 ch amp.

I believe that when the xmc-1 does come out, if you're not on the list, it may take a long time too get your hands on one.

That being said, the Sherbourn pt-7030 processor on sale at $1619.00 looks great.

The Emotiva xpr-5 (5 channel, 400 watts) on sale for $1799.00 would be my first choice.

The Emotiva xpa-5 (5 channel, 200 watts) , $899.00 also a winner. Great reviews.