There are only three multi-channel 5.1 integrated amplifiers that I'm aware of, and they are the Dussun D9, the Linar Audio Model 10, and the Pathos Cinema X. The D9 debuted before the Model 10 and Cinema X according to Ping Pong at AAA-Audio. The lure of integrated multi-channel amplifiers for HT has to do with uncompromising 2ch/5ch sound performance compared to upscale receivers and moderately priced seperates. A pure and simplistic approach without the complexity and sound henderence of a processor. All that is needed is a quality universal DVD player with a good bulit-in Dolby Digital decoder. Preferably, modified units from the likes of HRAM Denon players,
http://www.hotrodaudiomods.com/dvdedvd3910.html, or players from SACDmods,
http://sacdmods.com, to name a few. These modified palyers will take further advantage of the 2ch/5ch sound. Good 5.1 RCA interconnects are also important and these can be obtained for reasonable prices from companies like Cobalt Cable,
http://cobaltcable.com/multi_channel_audio_bundle.htm, and Signal Cable,
http://signalcable.com/analoght.html .
The Dussun D9 is an attractive and well built amplifier. The chassis is aluminum with a 1/2 inch brushed aluminum front panel. The side heat sinks are a thick cast aluminum with a unique oval configuration. The front digital display is wide and offers two intensity settings. The display can be read from a good distance. Other features on the front panel include two rows of AV source buttons on the right, a centered large hand volume control, a dispaly intensity button left of dispaly window, a power button lower left, and three buttons to the left and right of the volume control that control mute and 5.1ch audio inputs.
http://www.dussun.com/english/d9.html . On the back of the amplifier are two sets of 5.1 RCA audio inputs, 5.1ch preouts and mains for DVD-Audio/SACD, six stereo, two monitor outputs, and numerious video inputs including three component video inputs. The audio and video connections are standard affair for mid-fi amplifiers and pre/pros. There's also an IEC connecter for upgrading from standard power cord.
I will post my findings of the D9 in Critics Circle where I will be comparing it to the Outlaw 950/750 combo that garnered rave reviews a couple of years back.
