FWIW, I home demo'd a Rotel 1068 and the Sherwood/Newcastle P-965 at the same time about two years ago. Although a close call, the Sherwood, which should sound much like the Outlaw (they are both produced by Sherwood) bested the 1068, especially in terms of soundstage dimensionality, top-end extension and feature-set. Since the 1068 probably is an improvement over the 1066, between the Rotel and the Outlaw, I'd go for the Outlaw (which is a no-risk purchase, since they have a 30-day return option).
Which processor? Linn, Rotel, Outlaw, Meridian?
I have a great Linn 5 channel amp, great Linn Espek/Ekwal speakers, a good Velodyne sub, and a crappy Onkyo receiver as the processor. I am looking to upgrade and get a new processor but cannot spend more than $1500. Music/movies are 50/50 on this system.
I can pick up an OLD Linn AV5103 for under $1500.
I could buy a brand new Outlaw for $1099.
I could buy a Rotel 1066 for about $700.
...or a Meridian 568 for under $1500.
I don't believe anything will be future proof so I don't mind buying used gear. However, would "brand new" Outlaw chips be better than older chips? Any recommendations would be appreciated. Also, SACD, DVD-A is not a big deal for me. PLII would be nice but not necessary.
I can pick up an OLD Linn AV5103 for under $1500.
I could buy a brand new Outlaw for $1099.
I could buy a Rotel 1066 for about $700.
...or a Meridian 568 for under $1500.
I don't believe anything will be future proof so I don't mind buying used gear. However, would "brand new" Outlaw chips be better than older chips? Any recommendations would be appreciated. Also, SACD, DVD-A is not a big deal for me. PLII would be nice but not necessary.