Ugh, now my Lexicon processor won't even boot up. I spoke with a knowledgeable technician. Sounds like it's a power supply problem. Parts are still readily available and the unit can be fixed, but repair is likely to be costly. I'm thinking a number between $1000 to $1500. (The unit when new in 2006 was $7000.)
Pros of repair:
- I get to keep my two sets of 5.1 analog inputs; which allows me to use the analog outputs from both my Oppo (ESS Sabre DAC) and Surround Master.
- I get to keep my highly adjustable version of Lexicon Logic7.
- I get to keep the ability to route the subwoofer channel to the mains AND the surrounds.
- Nice, subtle tone controls including Tilt Equalization.
- Familiarity: I've used this beast for 15 years.
Cons of repair:
- How long is this repair going to last before something else breaks? However, this power supply failure appears to be the Achilles heel of these Lexicon units while everything else in it is rock solid.
- I'm stuck with 5.1 inputs....No 7.1 or possibility of Dolby Atmos.
Pros of buying new (Target product: Marantz AV7706):
- HDMI inputs will simplify things...I hope.
- Room correction (assuming these gizmos even work)
- 7.1 analog inputs to handle the Surround Master
- Dolby Atmos
Cons of buying new:
- No Logic7 (Even the new Lexicon gear does not have adjustable Logic7.)
- Finicky digital equipment, including HDMI
- Is this new stuff essentially "throw-away" digital gear, like a phone?
- Even more digital gizmos to deal with...Is there any way of keeping this stuff relatively simple? I really don't want to use a phone app to control a processor for heavens sake! The Lexicon is so complicated that it took me 10 years to fully master the capabilities of the unit.
I'm on the fence about what to do. I'm really concerned about the reliability of the new equipment.
Your thoughts are appreciated.
Thanks.
AR
Pros of repair:
- I get to keep my two sets of 5.1 analog inputs; which allows me to use the analog outputs from both my Oppo (ESS Sabre DAC) and Surround Master.
- I get to keep my highly adjustable version of Lexicon Logic7.
- I get to keep the ability to route the subwoofer channel to the mains AND the surrounds.
- Nice, subtle tone controls including Tilt Equalization.
- Familiarity: I've used this beast for 15 years.
Cons of repair:
- How long is this repair going to last before something else breaks? However, this power supply failure appears to be the Achilles heel of these Lexicon units while everything else in it is rock solid.
- I'm stuck with 5.1 inputs....No 7.1 or possibility of Dolby Atmos.
Pros of buying new (Target product: Marantz AV7706):
- HDMI inputs will simplify things...I hope.
- Room correction (assuming these gizmos even work)
- 7.1 analog inputs to handle the Surround Master
- Dolby Atmos
Cons of buying new:
- No Logic7 (Even the new Lexicon gear does not have adjustable Logic7.)
- Finicky digital equipment, including HDMI
- Is this new stuff essentially "throw-away" digital gear, like a phone?
- Even more digital gizmos to deal with...Is there any way of keeping this stuff relatively simple? I really don't want to use a phone app to control a processor for heavens sake! The Lexicon is so complicated that it took me 10 years to fully master the capabilities of the unit.
I'm on the fence about what to do. I'm really concerned about the reliability of the new equipment.
Your thoughts are appreciated.
Thanks.
AR