A couple of things. First I did a comparison with two Oppos, the 95 and the 103 both as pre's to a 7 channel Outlaw amp. The 103 was underwhelming, and further research revealed that Oppo does not recommend it be used as a stand alone pre. My results bore this out.
Second, my experience with Emotiva is that their house sound tends to be bright. I note that because the OP mentions wanting some warmth. I actually ended up selling my three Emotiva components. Further to that, XMC owners are reporting occasional pops and clicks with Dirac, several have mentioned this on the AVS thread, and gotten slammed by Emo fanboys. I'd be cautious about that processor for now, and whatever the collective thinks on their forum.
My solution for two channel performance has been a separate system in another room. If that's not possible, 2 channel gear with theater bypass has proven to be a good compromise. You also need top notch speakers for best resolution, though. There is no free lunch.
Second, my experience with Emotiva is that their house sound tends to be bright. I note that because the OP mentions wanting some warmth. I actually ended up selling my three Emotiva components. Further to that, XMC owners are reporting occasional pops and clicks with Dirac, several have mentioned this on the AVS thread, and gotten slammed by Emo fanboys. I'd be cautious about that processor for now, and whatever the collective thinks on their forum.
My solution for two channel performance has been a separate system in another room. If that's not possible, 2 channel gear with theater bypass has proven to be a good compromise. You also need top notch speakers for best resolution, though. There is no free lunch.