Cary Audio Cinema 11a --HD Audio like Cinema 12, Awesome 2-Ch!--Anthem Bryston SP2

First off, do not confuse this with the original Cinema 11. The 11a has HDMI audio inputs and DOES the HD audio formats--Dolby True HD and DTS HD. The only differences versus the current Cinema 12 are 24 bit DACs (vs 32 bit) and 2 HDMIs (vs 4 on the 12). The 2-channel quality and other analog parts are exactly the same, as personally confirmed by Cary Audio. You get near-12 performance at a fraction of the price!

It has a Zone 2 remote and function AND room calibration with professional quality mic included.
The HDMIs do video pass-through only, but I just used them for the HD audio inputs (which you should be fine with 2--Blu-Ray plus one more--and toslink or coax for the rest). I just did video switching on my display.

When I purchased this, I set out to find the processor with the best (affordable) 2-channel quality, and I think I succeeded. I read a Stereophile review that preferred it slightly over a Bryston SP2, and considering the SP2 has the same 2-channel quality as their dedicated BP26, that is huge praise. It is completely neutral and only adds gain. I have done an A/B comparison with the variable outs from my CD player directly to my amp and then through the Cary. While the first does let one see slightly more deeply into a recording, it is minimal. Tonally, though, there was no change. It is only adding gain--exactly as a preamp should. Smooth and no graininess. Surround has been great. Very spacial.

I have everything with it--boxes, manual, parts, remotes, etc. The only thing I couldn't find is the power cord, but I figure anyone buying it here will use a 3rd party cord, anyways. I can pick one up if it is a big deal. Cosmetically near-perfect, except for a hairline little indentation on the volume knob that you will never notice unless you run your finger across it and a couple very minor blemishes on top. The outer box is a little beat up, but there is an inner box in perfect shape.

I will note that it runs fairly warm, is heavy (!), built like a tank, and deep (16.5"). Plan accordingly. I always used it with the door open and have the back off my cabinet.

***PP add 3%. Also, Shipping shown is close estimate and will be calculated and billed exactly upon sale***