Don't judge a book by it's cover
Written: Dec 30 '00
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Pros: amazing quality and sound at this price point
Cons: no phono input
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| zavmaster's Full Review: Outlaw Audio Model 1050 6.1 Channel A/V Receiver |
If you don’t want to read any further, know this: this receiver is hands-down the best value and highest performing unit below $1000. I know that saying this is generalizing all other sub $1000 receivers, but I honestly feel this way.
The Outlaw 1050 is the second product from Outlaw Audio, an internet-only hifi company. You can’t listen to this receiver in a store, but you also can’t find a better value.
BUILD QUALITY:
Build quality is excellent. By selling only through the Internet, Outlaw is able to spend more on the quality of the materials and electronics in their products. This receiver weighs 40 pounds. I cannot think of a unit below $1000 that is built as well as this. You will pass this on to your kids.
CONNECTIVITY:
Plenty. This unit should be able to support all but the most complicated setups. Connections are gold plated, and include hefty five way binding posts. Once again, quality is fantastic.
My only wish is that Outlaw included a phono input. However, the money saved on buying this receiver should allow you to get a phono stage and connect to one of the inputs. Also, more s-video and component inputs would be nice, but I have to keep telling myself that the unit costs $600.
SOUND:
Once again, the Outlaw amazes me. This unit is rated at 65wpc, but I can tell you that this must be a conservative rating, as the unit always sounded like it could tackle anything I threw at it.
The bass is well defined, and the soundstage and imaging are both great. I felt like I could listen to this unit for hours. The typical harsh sound of low priced receivers was nowhere to be found. Again, I found myself comparing this to units that cost twice as much.
The Zoran processors do a great job of decoding 6.1 surround sound formats. I was impressed with the overall envelopment of the sound. I found myself watching the movies and forgetting that I was supposed to be auditioning this unit. I also heard things in the movies that I never heard before.
MISCELLANEOUS:
The remote is adequate, as is the manual. The unit is shipped very well protected. Also, Outlaw has some great customer service.
My system consists of a Toshiba dvd player, Mitsubishi television, Onkyo cd changer, and Anthony Gallo Acoustics Nucleus Micro speakers and powered sub.
SUMMERY:
I am honestly amazed. This receiver is fantastic, and could easily cost twice as much. Anyone looking for a home theater receiver that costs less than $2000 should give the Outlaw a serious audition.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 600
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Epinions.com ID:
zavmaster
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Member: Dave
Reviews written: 5
Trusted by: 2 members
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