Yes, the switch is set to XLR ... the hiss noise is considerably increased compared to rca interconnects...

Did you make your own xlr cables?

w

No I have purchased XLO ref2

Halcro SSP was a great unit, but this is the third time I would have to send it for repair (upgraded to SSP200 a year ago); now the same problem "hissing" problem in my speakers and also sending a bad signal to my Odeon - Odeon "turns" one of the channels to OFF in order to protect itself; I am done with Halcro - just ordered Krell S1200u; hopefully no more issues and no more RMA boxes!!

Halcro SSP was a great unit, but this is the third time I would have to send it for repair (upgraded to SSP200 a year ago); now the same problem "hissing" problem in my speakers and also sending a bad signal to my Odeon - Odeon "turns" one of the channels to OFF in order to protect itself; I am done with Halcro - just ordered Krell S1200u; hopefully no more issues and no more RMA boxes!!
Let us now how the Krell S-1200u works out for you. I have my eye on this unit. There is very little written about it so far.

This just in from Halcro:
You will also no doubt be delighted to learn that HALCRO is proud to announce the return of Dr Bruce Candy as Head of Engineering & Research following a significant investment in the business from a new, external shareholder. Bruce is already hard at work on the existing line-up, whilst also managing to devote his not inconsiderable talents to some significant new product development, details of which we will pass on in future newsletters.

I think this is good news...?

I hope so, although my SSP200 just died completely right after I saw this. I'm hoping it's just the internal fuse. I don't know if there has been a problem with power supplies before.

That's a new one. I'd certainly open it up and check the fuses.

Has Halcro announced that they will reopen sales in the U.S.?
Last year they closed down sales and dealers in the U.S., didn't they?
If Halcro starts having dealers in the U.S. again, that would be nice, wouldn't it?

Halcro never stopped selling in the US. They closed their US office. Dealers got their products by direct shipment from HQ.

Krell S1200U turned out to be much better unit than Halcro SSP200; much easier to use and set up and the sound is incredible.
Had a little bit of trouble first S1200 freezing up on start up - turned out to be a slow HDMI communication with my Lumagen Radiance. Found out that I have to power up Krell first and then Lumagen - Krell is working on a fix so I can power up both at the same time.
Would highly recommend the unit over SSP200.

Good to know worthy replacements are starting to pop up. I'll likely run my SSP-200 into the ground as it sounds great and is reliable.

Congrats!

just saw a brand new 100 on agon for cheap- is it worth getting it and upgrade to the 200 have all the bugs been taken care of??- Need just for movies and no video= thanks

A new & substantially updated model is coming.
I for one am patiently waiting for it.

A new & substantially updated model is coming.
I for one am patiently waiting for it.

But likely not for $2000 as the poster was looking at a deal.

WHat do you know about the new model?

HDMI 1.4?
6 HDMI?
Please.. no scaler.
Upgrade pricing for SSP-200 owners??!! :D

Does the 200 do the HD formats looking at there websites it does not seem so.

Does the 200 do the HD formats looking at there websites it does not seem so.

It can accept LPCM 7.1 - but not bitstreamed as it is not HDMI 1.3.

All Blu Ray players can decode DTS MA and TRUE HD to LPCM and output it via HDMI. The Halcro cannot decode - but the players can, so all is good.

Sonically, bitstreamed lossless and LPCM via HDMI are identical.


Jeff

It can accept LPCM 7.1 - but not bitstreamed as it is not HDMI 1.3.

All Blu Ray players can decode DTS MA and TRUE HD to LPCM and output it via HDMI. The Halcro cannot decode - but the players can, so all is good.

Sonically, bitstreamed lossless and LPCM via HDMI are identical.


Jeff

Wow went to audiogon to ask the seller a question and intending to purchase the unit and ITS GONE :eek: somebody got a great deal even with the upgrade $3700 is not a bad deal. Guess bebop86 scooped it.

Nope someone beat me to it-The search goes on!- I think I may just go with a used krell 7.1 for the moment till some new pre/pro's come out or down in price__

As a Halcro customer (I have the EC800 which sounds massively better than my previous Quad 66) I emailed both the guy in charge of the tech stuff & also I think the managing director with my input for the new model.
That was in November last year.
They took my suggestions & comments on board & were very positive.
They are probably in the process of developing the new spec right now.
Why don't you send them your input.
Hey who is better to get new product input from than your present customers.
They certainly convinced me to wait for the new model rather than buy some other brand.

As a Halcro customer (I have the EC800 which sounds massively better than my previous Quad 66) I emailed both the guy in charge of the tech stuff & also I think the managing director with my input for the new model.
That was in November last year.
They took my suggestions & comments on board & were very positive.
They are probably in the process of developing the new spec right now.
Why don't you send them your input.
Hey who is better to get new product input from than your present customers.
They certainly convinced me to wait for the new model rather than buy some other brand.


I see your point and agree...

That said, there is nothing new in the SSP market to warrant $10K to $15K upgrade from what most of us already have (unless you are still analog)...

This part of the HT market has stagnated.

Not even sure how I could improve on what I have if money were no object.

The improvement on the Halcro would be a user interface that actually makes sense and works. Can't improve on the sound quality.

The improvement on the Halcro would be a user interface that actually makes sense and works. Can't improve on the sound quality.

I agree. However, for RS-232 - it gives you everything. I rarely touch my SSP manually. (I use IR for volume - RS-232 for all other commands as there are many sub-menu commands).

That said, the RS-232 commands are a bit slow in executing as each command is 5 separate mini commands.

I spoke to Gary today who reported:
"Though things are still in the very early development stage, the next
processor will not be an upgrade to the SSP220, but a completely new
platform. The direction the new owner wants to go, is to make it a part of
the "Reference" line, and have it sell for about twice what the SSP220
costs."
I don't know if there will be a trade-in program. I know when they replaced my Proceed PAV/PDSD with the ML #40 at 3x the price, they gave full cost/MSRP of the Proceed in trade. Hopefully Halcro will do the same, although it would have to be a very much improved unit for me to spend even another 10K for it.

I agree. However, for RS-232 - it gives you everything. I rarely touch my SSP manually. (I use IR for volume - RS-232 for all other commands as there are many sub-menu commands).

That said, the RS-232 commands are a bit slow in executing as each command is 5 separate mini commands.

That is interesting, I can't get my updated SSP 80/180 to respond to RS232 commands at all, I just get RS buffer error messages on the VFD. The control protocol is exactly the same as for the Parasound Halo which the SSP replaces, except they've upped the com port speed on the Gen7 SSP. So I was expecting to be able to unplug the serial cable from the back of the Halo and plug it into the Halcro and I'm good to go. But no. The IR remotes from the Halo work the Halcro just fine, actually better than that gawd awful touch screen remote that comes with the SSP.

Another issue I have with the SSP is slow syncing with the display for HDMI sources. It takes about a minute with no picture between source changes. Also, I get the popping and crackling noises coming through the speakers whilst this is going on. There is also something going on with these RS buffer error messages, the rotary knob is not working for source selection changes but it does work for volume changes. Source selection is very "hit and miss" with the rotary dial. I've unplugged the comm cable and will try IR port for control.

BTW does anyone know of a Pronto module for the SSP?

I know going way way back somewhere on the forum there was much discussion comparing the Halo and Halcro, and how much internals they shared etc. Having owned both I can say they compare favourably on 5.1 compressed sources (the Halo has the edge over the Halcro with the front soundstage, the Halcro has the edge over the Halo in the surround channels). Obviously there is no comparison when it comes to MPCM with the Halcro, that does sound very good. Need to go and find me a 7.1 uncompressed BR title as I've only played with 5.1 uncompressed to this point.

That is interesting, I can't get my updated SSP 80/180 to respond to RS232 commands at all, I just get RS buffer error messages on the VFD. The control protocol is exactly the same as for the Parasound Halo which the SSP replaces, except they've upped the com port speed on the Gen7 SSP. So I was expecting to be able to unplug the serial cable from the back of the Halo and plug it into the Halcro and I'm good to go. But no. The IR remotes from the Halo work the Halcro just fine, actually better than that gawd awful touch screen remote that comes with the SSP.

I'll post a command so you can double check

[QUOTE=gulliBELL;1826746Another issue I have with the SSP is slow syncing with the display for HDMI sources. It takes about a minute with no picture between source changes. Also, I get the popping and crackling noises coming through the speakers whilst this is going on. There is also something going on with these RS buffer error messages, the rotary knob is not working for source selection changes but it does work for volume changes. Source selection is very "hit and miss" with the rotary dial. I've unplugged the comm cable and will try IR port for control.[/quote]

Normal. Yep.

The rotary knob stopped working properly for source selection with the last firmware upgrade-still waiting for a bug fix (don't hold your breath, it's been over a year).
I created my own SSP module for my Pronto TSU6000. PM me if you's like me to email you my ccf. Source selection works well using the direct buttons with my Pronto, not as well using my macros.

Just as a follow up to my earlier post, and others:

My RS232 issue is all sorted. The Gen7 variant does not like 9,600 baud rate, I just changed component properties to 19,200 baud and all is well.

The current SSP platform is at the end of its development. The new SSP has not been designed or costed yet, but they want to make sure that the next iteration is perfect as it can be on day 1 (sounds like the Parasound approach, wait until it's perfect and so leave everyone waiting forever!). Hence the new model is (probably) about 2 years away.

The unresponsive rotary dial is a known issue and (I'm to understand) it's here to stay, unfortunately. The processor is just so maxed out with the Gen7 upgrade doing what it does in the background that the rotary dial functions do not have the available resources to respond any quicker. So it's a hardware limitation. The suggested solution is control via the RS232 interface which does not have the limitation.

I'm very happy with the sound from the SSP 180, my only gripe is with the popping noises during display sync, and the unpredictable rotary dial response. But I can live with that for another two years until the next SSP platform comes along. All I long for now is a DM38, and a bigger house to put it in!

Wow, I am so glad I have an Integra DTC9.8. I have no problems whatsoever after 2 years of use. No popping noise, no HDMI sync issues, works transparently without making it's presence felt. Furthermore, mine sounds great.

Mind you, I do love the Halcro sound which is why I own 6 of the reference DM series amps. But I would stay away from any processor designed by smaller companies who do not have the resources of the larger consumer companies..

Wow, I am so glad I have an Integra DTC9.8. I have no problems whatsoever after 2 years of use. No popping noise, no HDMI sync issues, works transparently without making it's presence felt. Furthermore, mine sounds great.

Mind you, I do love the Halcro sound which is why I own 6 of the reference DM series amps. But I would stay away from any processor designed by smaller companies who do not have the resources of the larger consumer companies..

Have you ever had the SSP-200/220 in your system to take a listen?

I have had both you are referencing in my own system and while the Integra is good for the price it doesn't compare SQ wise to the Halcro.

The sound quality is amazing but the user interface and software is awful.

True about the UI, but that was a design done way back in 2003 (not by Halcro I would add) and it was quite "leading edge" for that time. The sound, however, is all Halcro. I would hope the next generation of SSP's will have more Halcro in them than the current iteration, but given the small size of the company and the complexity of the task at hand, I think we need to be prepared for some sacrifices here.

I'd be bouncing your "wish lists" in the next generation SSP to Halcro now, before they get too far down the track and lock in a design.

Have you ever had the SSP-200/220 in your system to take a listen?

I have had both you are referencing in my own system and while the Integra is good for the price it doesn't compare SQ wise to the Halcro.

No, and you could very well be right about this. I have access to test equipment and if anyone is interested, we could measure the jitter and signal to noise ratio of both units to compare. This should prove which is more transparent to the original source material.

Personal opinions can be easily biased and is very subjective.

I have had both the Halcro 200 and the Integra 9.8 in my system, and there is simply no comparison regarding SQ. The Integra is edgier, less detailed, and to my ears fatiguing to listen to. It is acceptable for HT, but simply not for music. The Halcro, on the other hand, handles analog music as well as the ARC LS17 (which I've also had in my system), although not as well as the Ref3, which alone costs as much as the Halcro.
On the other hand, the Integra is bulletproof. It works properly out of the box, has a good UI that actually works, and costs 1/5 the price of the Halcro. And Halcro is planning to charge twice as much for their new Reference SSP. Hopefully that unit will work properly out of the box when it is finally built years from now, but I don't understand why it should cost $20K for an SSP that both sounds great and works properly. Why can't a company like Integra, which has the engineering manpower to design a bulletproof unit, build a better sounding unit (and of course charge more for the use of better parts), as Oppo has done with their BD player?
When ML came out with their #40 $30K SSP years ago it was fraught with problems. It does seem that the higher the price, the less likely a high end SSP is to work. High end audio is beginning to remind me of the story of the man selling apples on the street corner for a million dollars each. When asked how he could charge so much for an apple, he replied, "well, I only have to sell one".

I have had both the Halcro 200 and the Integra 9.8 in my system, and there is simply no comparison regarding SQ. The Integra is edgier, less detailed, and to my ears fatiguing to listen to. It is acceptable for HT, but simply not for music. The Halcro, on the other hand, handles analog music as well as the ARC LS17 (which I've also had in my system), although not as well as the Ref3, which alone costs as much as the Halcro.
On the other hand, the Integra is bulletproof. It works properly out of the box, has a good UI that actually works, and costs 1/5 the price of the Halcro. And Halcro is planning to charge twice as much for their new Reference SSP. Hopefully that unit will work properly out of the box when it is finally built years from now, but I don't understand why it should cost $20K for an SSP that both sounds great and works properly. Why can't a company like Integra, which has the engineering manpower to design a bulletproof unit, build a better sounding unit (and of course charge more for the use of better parts), as Oppo has done with their BD player?
When ML came out with their #40 $30K SSP years ago it was fraught with problems. It does seem that the higher the price, the less likely a high end SSP is to work. High end audio is beginning to remind me of the story of the man selling apples on the street corner for a million dollars each. When asked how he could charge so much for an apple, he replied, "well, I only have to sell one".


For dolby digital movies and tv or satellite, could you tell a diference?

For Blu Ray higher resolution lossless, could you tell a difference?

That is, Halcro SSP vs Integra?

Steve,
Yes, I could tell a difference with lossless over HDMI with blu-ray. For DD sources I use optical or coax (I have my satellite dish sending video over HDMI and audio over optical), and I could definitely hear a difference there. I would liken the Integra to a TV with the sharpness turned way up- some may think they're seeing a better a picture, but you actually see more detail with the sharpness turned down (eg, the Halcro). I'm sure if you ever get your CB3 HDMI you will appreciate and enjoy the difference.
I am very happy with the SQ of the Halcro. I don't really need to spend twice as much for better SQ, I just want an SSP that works properly, with a good UI.

"It does seem that the higher the price, the less likely a high end SSP is to work. High end audio is beginning to remind me of the story of the man selling apples on the street corner for a million dollars each. When asked how he could charge so much for an apple, he replied, "well, I only have to sell one"."

Until 'high end' consumers stop making excuses for sorry engineering like this there is very little incentive for these companies to take the time and money to debug their products properly.

Some 'high end' consumers have really low standards IMO.

Shawn

...but I don't understand why it should cost $20K for an SSP that both sounds great and works properly...

The next Halcro SSP platform hasn't been designed yet, let alone costed. I haven't heard that it will be in the Reference Series. I wouldn't jump to any conclusions yet about it, other than it is quite some way off. What we have now with Gen7 is here to stay until then.

For dolby digital movies and tv or satellite, could you tell a diference?

For Blu Ray higher resolution lossless, could you tell a difference?

That is, Halcro SSP vs Integra?

For movies the difference in dynamics can be startling.

Another difference for movies in both lossless and regular DD and DTS is you are less aware of were your speakers are placed. In a completely dark theater with the Integra your listening to your speakers but the Halcro you are just listening to this wall of sound that surrounds you. It is hard to explain unless you experience it. I know I had to get used to sounds coming from places were I would pause the movie and check the house, it wasn't until I replayed the same scene that the sound was coming from the movie. The Halcro throws out a huge soundstage and is extremely detailed.

Don't get me wrong, I think the DTC9.8 is a great pre-pro but it's soundstage and dynamics seem constrained when compared to the Halcro. To be honest I have never owned another pre-pro that can do for movies what the halcro can.
For music there are better choices and a friend of mine who replaced his Theta with extreme dacs with the Halcro admits the Theta was better musically but the Halcro is much better for movies.

+1

there is little else comparable for lossless x

"there is little else comparable for lossless x"

Nothing even close.................

Jim

Has anyone heard the new Mac prepro?

...with the Integra your listening to your speakers but the Halcro you are just listening to this wall of sound that surrounds you. It is hard to explain unless you experience it..

Yes, I know exactly what you mean, because I've experienced it, and I agree. I would add that I own the Halcro SSP 180 (and an MC70, but still looking for a good DM38).
p.s. anyone got a simple 2-way ProntoPro module (xcf) for the Halcro that they're willing to share?

In my emails to Halcro concerning their new SSP I specifically mentioned the Pronto.
Suggesting that this be the new remote and they seemed most interested.
Certainly there is a very strong desire to make the new unit user friendly & home theatre friendly.

Forget a pronto. A simple remote is fine. Just give a far simpler rs232 protocol and iPod dock. I am converting my control over to ip using an iPad. An Ethernet port should mandatory for convenient control.

Pronto control and the likes are old school.

Pronto control and the likes are old school.

I disagree. Have a look what Kaleidescape have done with their Pronto software. I just can't imagine a control system and UI any better than that, and it's free.

If Halcro could do something similar for the next Gen SSP platform would definitely be the way to go. As well as offer an iPod Touch/iPad app to control the SSP, and of course modules for AMX and Crestron. Halcro wouldn't need to provide any fancy OEM remote with the SSP, thus keeping the cost down, because most people would already have the hardware needed to control it (i.e. a ProntoPro, iPod, iPad, iPhone, AMX or Crestron). They just need to provide the software to interface the hardware together, plus maybe a basic sidekick IR remote for backup purposes.

Hey....
If you get a chance to go listen to the Aesthetix you be quite please with what you'll hear. Just one thing though. The tubes the product ships with are not very good, Sovtek. They are a noisy tube and don't really show what the piece is capable of. Once I switched to NOS tubes it was like I was listening to a different piece of gear at a whole new level.

From my point of view a Pronto with a remote extender would suit me just fine.
I am looking to to fit on it somewhere about sixteen separate remotes operating across two zones.
My discussions with Halcro were along the lines of a preprogrammed Pronto.
That is a Pronto preprogrammed for a full Home Theatre so that people could just slot in their components.
Halcro are strongly considering the Pronto as the SSPs remote or as an option.
This would suit me just fine.
Also I guess it would fit in with the image of Halcro as a supplier of premium products.
They are very determined to get everything just right - this includes the remotes as well as everything else.
By the way I did offer my suggestions (& received their feedback) about room correction - but that's not the topic of conversation here right now!

I'm using Pronto's TSU9800 panel and their RFX9600 Extender controlling the Halcro (RS232), Sim2 HT5000e (RS232), Kaleidescape, and other equipment using IR, and other than an adjustment on the Sim2 RS232, it all works fine.



Jim

Good choices with the Kaleidescape, Halcro and Pronto Pro, a match made in heaven! I might add, same gear as me! By any chance Jim have you worked out how to parse the RS232 dumped out of the Halcro to get bi-direction status feedback showing on the TSU9800? Someone smart told me how to do it, but I haven't actually got around to doing it yet.

Edit: It would make sense for Halcro to do IP control of the next SSP platform, and add it to the list of HRAS compatible devices. Then you won't need the RFX9600, and those without a Pronto could go for an iPad or iPod Touch to control it.

Good choices with the Kaleidescape, Halcro and Pronto Pro, a match made in heaven! I might add, same gear as me! By any chance Jim have you worked out how to parse the RS232 dumped out of the Halcro to get bi-direction status feedback showing on the TSU9800? Someone smart told me how to do it, but I haven't actually got around to doing it yet.

Edit: It would make sense for Halcro to do IP control of the next SSP platform, and add it to the list of HRAS compatible devices. Then you won't need the RFX9600, and those without a Pronto could go for an iPad or iPod Touch to control it.


No, sorry, have not done that (bi-direction feedback). I agree on the IP control and think I heard (or read) this being discussed as a possibility, but I have no confirmation.

Jim

Has any Halcro SSP owner had any experience with Audyssey Sound Equalizer and their Halcro? Would EQ take the sound quality of the Halcro to the next level?

Has any Halcro SSP owner had any experience with Audyssey Sound Equalizer and their Halcro? Would EQ take the sound quality of the Halcro to the next level?

IMO DSP helps all rooms. I use it (QSC).

IMO DSP helps all rooms. I use it (QSC).

So do I.

Jim

For those Halcro SSP owners savvy with HDMI and HDCP....can you send PCM audio over HDMI to the input of the SSP without having anything connected to its HDMI output? I just want to send HDMI audio to the Halcro from my video processor but I can't get any sound out of it this way. But as soon as I plug a display into the HDMI output I do. No doubt the Halcro is expecting to see a HDCP on its output before it will let me hear anything on a HDMI input...is there anything I can do to make the Halcro work here??

You might need some kind of video sink. I think someone once wrote about that in one of the forums some time ago but i'm not an expert and don't know for sure.

Yes. The HDMI/HDCP standards do not allow for SSPs to be the final HDMI sink, so you need to connect the HDMI output to something that acts like a sink in order to complete the connection. Once the connection is complete, you can turn off the display and still get sound. The alternative to a small display is the HDFury, which you can find online for about $150. It is designed to convert HDMI to RGB for older displays that don't have HDMI inputs, but also acts as a sink if you don't connect it to anything. The bland uses it for just that latter purpose, and I used it for the former before I got a newer display. These days, for the money, you might be able to find a small LCD display with HDMI inputs that would work better and be more useful.

Another issue with the Halcro SSP I've found is with MPCM 5.1 where the only mode available is DIRECT. The SSP doesn't matrix 5.1 MPCM to 7.1, it sends the rear channels of the 5.1 audio mix to the side speakers in a 7.1 system. In my 7.1 system the side speakers are slightly forward of the listening position, so with these speakers getting the rear channel information the sound field localization is not right...sounds that should be coming from behind me, don't, and can't. I wish I could easily toggle out the side speakers in this situation so the rear channel info gets sent to the rear speakers and not the side.

Another issue with the Halcro SSP I've found is with MPCM 5.1 where the only mode available is DIRECT. The SSP doesn't matrix 5.1 MPCM to 7.1, it sends the rear channels of the 5.1 audio mix to the side speakers in a 7.1 system. In my 7.1 system the side speakers are slightly forward of the listening position, so with these speakers getting the rear channel information the sound field localization is not right...sounds that should be coming from behind me, don't, and can't. I wish I could easily toggle out the side speakers in this situation so the rear channel info gets sent to the rear speakers and not the side.

To get 7.1 for 5.1 tracks:

1. You must select THX mode first (hit THX button on front panel or from remote).
2. Then scroll through the surround modes (mode +, mode -) until you get to THX ULT CIN II
3. There is your matrixed 7.1

Wow thanks! I asked Halcro the same question and I was to understand that the mode of the SSP was locked to DIRECT with MPCM, so you couldn't matrix 7.1 from 5.1 MPCM.

Wow thanks! I asked Halcro the same question and I was to understand that the mode of the SSP was locked to DIRECT with MPCM, so you couldn't matrix 7.1 from 5.1 MPCM.

Most here know at least as much as the manufacturer(s).:o

Anything Halcro has been silent on the forum here for several months, where have all the Halcro owners gone? Reluctant to bump an old thread but here goes.

I have recently bought this beauty:
http://i740.photobucket.com/albums/xx48/DTVbeejay/th_DM38-1.jpg (http://s740.photobucket.com/albums/xx48/DTVbeejay/?action=view&current=DM38-1.jpg)
to partner my Halcro SSP180/MC70, and the effect is of course one of many :D

However, the juxtaposition of $25,000+ worth of amp/pre-amp plugged into a financially very modest $1000 pair of Definitive Technology bi-polar floor standing speakers is something I'm currently contemplating. So, what to replace the DT's with, if anything, that is in audiophile context with the Halcro's?

I have considered Sonus faber Cremona M and Martin Logan Spire, both of which have a plethora of complementary reviews. But then again, just about every speaker ever reviewed has been complimentary it seems. So can I propose the question, particularly to any DM x8 owners, what speakers might I consider upgrading to? I am focused on the sub 10K price point however. I only have a small listening room and both HT and music have equal priority.

I'm not sure what's going on with Halcro, they are still in business, but that's about all I know.

I have swithed to an Anthem D2v and have been very happy with it.

As far as speakers, if you are willing to consider a boutique brand. You should check out the Intuitive Design Summits.

I have them with the matching center and they are incredible. There are really not many speakers under15K that can touch them. They are made of granite so no resonance, transmission line so amazing bass for a two way and they are time and phase coherent so massive imaging.

They were well received at RMAF last fall. The intuitve design room was recognized as the "Most Intriguing Sound at the Show" by Six Moons Audio. Stereophile recognized us as well in their post show blog. Check out the links below and look for the Intuitive Design Room.

http://www.6moons.com/industryfeatures/rmaf09/1.html

http://blog.stereophile.com/rmaf2009//index1.html

Of course the bland has traded in his Halcro for ADA. I still have my ssp200, which just died yet again. I discovered that Gary Barker is no longer with Halcro, and my reply came from Australia, not the US. Not a problem for you Aussies, I guess.
As far as speakers, I would only say don't buy anything you can't audition yourself. I have WATT/Puppy7s and Wilson surrounds and center, which I love, but out of your price range unless you find a good deal used.

Anything Halcro has been silent on the forum here for several months, where have all the Halcro owners gone? Reluctant to bump an old thread but here goes.

I have recently bought this beauty:
http://i740.photobucket.com/albums/xx48/DTVbeejay/th_DM38-1.jpg (http://s740.photobucket.com/albums/xx48/DTVbeejay/?action=view&current=DM38-1.jpg)
to partner my Halcro SSP180/MC70, and the effect is of course one of many :D

However, the juxtaposition of $25,000+ worth of amp/pre-amp plugged into a financially very modest $1000 pair of Definitive Technology bi-polar floor standing speakers is something I'm currently contemplating. So, what to replace the DT's with, if anything, that is in audiophile context with the Halcro's?

I have considered Sonus faber Cremona M and Martin Logan Spire, both of which have a plethora of complementary reviews. But then again, just about every speaker ever reviewed has been complimentary it seems. So can I propose the question, particularly to any DM x8 owners, what speakers might I consider upgrading to? I am focused on the sub 10K price point however. I only have a small listening room and both HT and music have equal priority.

FWIW, I use Halcro Amps in my combination Music/HT system. I have two MC-20s, and an MC-30.

These formerly amplified a Lexicon MC-12HD, and now a Denon AVP-HD1CI. They have driven Aerial 10ts, with a CC5 and 4 SR3s; Revel Ultima Salons, with Revel Voice Center, and 4 Revel Embraces. And now . . .

They drive PSB Synchrony 1s, with the corresponding Synchrony Center channel and 4 PSB Synchrony surrounds. The PSBs easily equal the Aerials, and I haven't lost a thing from the Revels. The PSBs are cheap compared to the above, though the whole system is about $10,000, MSRP, I believe.

If you're looking for great sound and value, I couldn't recommend them more. They're Stereophile "A" rated speakers, and if you read the reviews, you'll see how highly they're thought of in the industry.

Good luck.

Thanks,

Nick :cool:

It is my understanding that Halcro is no longer making SSPs but is considering a very high end SSP in the future (>$20k price range). Doubt I would ever pay that much for an SSP. All service and support is coming from Australia. Nothing out of warranty will be serviced in US but you can pay for service from third parties.

My SSP 200 HDMI board failed. Too expensive to repair so I've moved on. Must say the sound was incredible during the several years I used it.

It is my understanding that Halcro is no longer making SSPs but is considering a very high end SSP in the future (>$20k price range). Doubt I would ever pay that much for an SSP. All service and support is coming from Australia. Nothing out of warranty will be serviced in US but you can pay for service from third parties.

My SSP 200 HDMI board failed. Too expensive to repair so I've moved on. Must say the sound was incredible during the several years I used it.

So what are you using as a replacement?

I wish Halcro the best and hope they come up with a reliable replacement for the SSP-220. If they do and it doesn't cost $20K then I would probably be back in, really miss the SQ for movies.

I had the pleasure of meeting both Bruce B. and Gary, 2 very professional men and a pleasure to deal with. Sad to hear that Gary left but I am sure he will land on his feet. I don't know if Bruce is still the President of US operations, either way he is a really smart man who will do well.

The best sounding pre-pro for movies out of nearly 20 hi end pre-pro's I have owned throughout the years. Sucks to not have it anymore.

So what are you using as a replacement?

I wish Halcro the best and hope they come up with a reliable replacement for the SSP-220. If they do and it doesn't cost $20K then I would probably be back in, really miss the SQ for movies.

I had the pleasure of meeting both Bruce B. and Gary, 2 very professional men and a pleasure to deal with. Sad to hear that Gary left but I am sure he will land on his feet. I don't know if Bruce is still the President of US operations, either way he is a really smart man who will do well.

The best sounding pre-pro for movies out of nearly 20 hi end pre-pro's I have owned throughout the years. Sucks to not have it anymore.

Sounds like The Bland is smart, got into Halcro at right time, is getting out - woops, a bit late. Plummet in value. Can't even be repaired without astronomical pricing. Sort of makes us Theta owners feel lucky. Oh - Halcro is workin' on a new $20K SSP. We've heard that one before. HA!

The Halcro had phenomenal SQ but also the worst user interface known to mankind.

I also bought an ADA Mach IV - discovered it around the same time as Jeff.

I have 7 Halcro amps. They are great and very reliable. I have had them for over 6 years and they have never failed. However, i never trusted them with their SSP design. Audio processors are very complex DSP designs done well by companies with huge resources, i.e. the Sonys, Pioneers etc. Small high end companies cannot compete in this field. I use an Integra for my
Processor and it has never failed or acted unreliable ever. My Halcro amps are connected to Revel Ultima Salons and Studios. The sound is awesome and completely dependable. My HT just works. I am a DSP designer by profession and know what it takes to design and support one of these devices.

The Halcro had phenomenal SQ but also the worst user interface known to mankind.

I also bought an ADA Mach IV - discovered it around the same time as Jeff.

Have you installed the ADA in your system yet? If so then comments on the SQ compared to the Halcro would be great.

just received it a few days ago. Will be installing it over Labor Day weekend.

I bought a used ssp220 a couple of months ago. At the time, I bought it, Halcro still had it's Las Vegas center listed on their website. Last night I tried playing a regular DVD and determined that the component video appears not to be working. It was working when I purchased the processor and Blu Ray through HDMI works fine. I know it's not the DVD player or cables, and have tried the component through different sources and inputs.

Does anybody know of any obtuse setting that may be responsible for this? I have gone through the menu, and believe I have the source inputs and outputs set correctly.

Alternatively, can someone point me to a third party who can repair the Halcro without sending it to Australia? I would not have bought it if I had known of the closing of their Las Vegas center even though the sound quality is really amazing.

I bought a used ssp220 a couple of months ago. At the time, I bought it, Halcro still had it's Las Vegas center listed on their website. Last night I tried playing a regular DVD and determined that the component video appears not to be working. It was working when I purchased the processor and Blu Ray through HDMI works fine. I know it's not the DVD player or cables, and have tried the component through different sources and inputs.

Does anybody know of any obtuse setting that may be responsible for this? I have gone through the menu, and believe I have the source inputs and outputs set correctly.

Alternatively, can someone point me to a third party who can repair the Halcro without sending it to Australia? I would not have bought it if I had known of the closing of their Las Vegas center even though the sound quality is really amazing.

Since mine is gone , I cannot check.
I believe that when HDMI is selected as output, the analog is turned off. I do not think it can do both component and HDMI simultaneously. Make sure your DVD player is set to output component. Many will not if HDMI is also connected. Unplug an HDMI cable if connected and re-try.

To be sure, check your settings for your DVD source set up in the Halcro. I imagine and HDMI connection from your DVD player into the Halcro works?

Thank you for the quick reply.

The HDMI ports work perfectly. I have two DVD players, a BluRay that is hooked up through HDMI and works great, and an older Sony 777ES changer that does not have HDMI. The Sony is the problem. When I first hooked it up, everything worked as it should, but it has probably been about a month since I used the Sony, as I normally use Bluray.

I have tried using component in/HDMI out, and component in/component out. I also tried using two of the three other component inputs, as well as trying my Dish Network receiver through component with the same result. The Dish receiver using HDMI works as it should.

I probably made a bad decision on this purchase, but I thought the sound quality was wonderful, and I could always send it to Vegas if it needed servicing.

Make sure the source default settings haven't been changed. The default component video input is Source 4, 5, 6, with Input 1,2, 3, respectively and analog audio 4, 5, 6 respectively. This can be changed

Just clarify the connections, I assume the component video output from the DVD player is connected to a component video input of the Halcro, and the component input of the display is connected to the component output of the Halcro? Is that the switching that seems to have failed?

Go to SOURCE SETUP>Scaler bypass and select ON. Then see if there is a component video signal at the component output of the Halcro when you select DVD component as source.

Thank you for the quick reply.

The HDMI ports work perfectly. I have two DVD players, a BluRay that is hooked up through HDMI and works great, and an older Sony 777ES changer that does not have HDMI. The Sony is the problem. When I first hooked it up, everything worked as it should, but it has probably been about a month since I used the Sony, as I normally use Bluray.

I have tried using component in/HDMI out, and component in/component out. I also tried using two of the three other component inputs, as well as trying my Dish Network receiver through component with the same result. The Dish receiver using HDMI works as it should.

I probably made a bad decision on this purchase, but I thought the sound quality was wonderful, and I could always send it to Vegas if it needed servicing.

I own Halcro amps, but never had their processor. Nonetheless, the issue of your settings sounds like a great place to start. If it's just the video, can you bypass the component video input to the Halcro, and simply go direct to your display?

Good luck.

Thanks,

Nick :cool:

Is there a setting to set the Halcro back to factory defaults? If so, you can try it and see if this fixes the problem.

Regardless of the hardware connections on the back, you must make sure the source settings are correct in the setup menu. Do you have the manual?

There is no reset.

Curious. Do you get a picture from the DVD player if set to output via HDMI?
Unplug your HDMI output from the Halcro and see if component output from the Halcro now works.

Funny. A month ago the remote that came with the Halcro failed (of course, right after the buyer took it home). I called Gary and he sent a new one to me which I forwarded to the new owner

Alternatively, can someone point me to a third party who can repair the Halcro without sending it to Australia?

Halcro does have a service center in LA, but I'm not sure if they repair SSP's. They might only repair amps, and perhaps do LPCM upgrades to SSP's. I'm not even sure that Halcro can repair SSP's in Australia. They can certainly do the LPCM upgrades, but I suspect sick SSP's might get sent to Ireland for repair. Suggest you give Lance a call in Adelaide.

BTW I assume you've connected the Sony component out direct to the display and it worked, and thus isolated whatever is going on here to something in the Halcro.

I really appreciate all the replies!

I have checked all the source input settings, and believe they are correct, with the exception of the scaler bypass setting which I am unable to find on the receiver or in the manual. The manual states that up conversion from component to HDMI is automatic. I have also tried different inputs with the same result.

The Sony does work when I hook it up via component directly to the projector, and while that is a solution, I would prefer to have it run through the Halcro, and have the ssp working as it should.

I do have a local electronics repair shop that I can take it to, although I'm sure they are not familiar with the Halcro. They have been servicing McIntosh equipment for quite some time, so they are skilled with audio equipment.

Thanks again for all of your help!

Display Setup -> Scaler Setup -> Video format

My menu is different. There is no "scaler setup". Under Display setup there is Video Format which choices are Auto, s video and comp.

I also tried disconnecting the HDMI output to the projector, but that didn't help.

Actually, there s no scaler on the 220. They removed it as it was a POS.

And you triple checked that the DVD source out put says 'COMP'? If you set the output to HDMI, you still don't get a picture via the Halcro's HDMI out??

Horseman,

There could be three possible reasons why this is happening to your unit.

1. The DSP switching/upsampling chip is failing. If this is happening there is nothing you can do but send it back to Halcro. They are the ones who purchase these chips and are familiar with what version of the chip is used. These are complex devices, many with 1B transistors or more with significant firmware support. This chip likely performs all your MPEG/Deinterlacing etc processes as well.

2. The firmware is corrupted, you might need to reinstall it.

3. The output of the switching/upsampling chip has a loose wire. Your local repair shop can inspect this and should be fixable.


I recommend buying the best/cheapest DSP audio processor you can get. A chip company I am familiar with, updates their hardware within a chip every 6 months as new issues come up and as new standards dictate new features. I use the word update to mean they fabricate a whole new chip. The DSP chip on anything you buy new will be obsolete in 6 months.

Any high end DSP you buy will not have the latest chips within 1 year. They can continue to update firmware but this will only get you so far. The new algorithms are not in the older chips.

If you like, buy/invest in high end analog equipment, the DSP stuff is no different than buying the latest Nvidia/ATI video card which gets replaced within 1 year.




I really appreciate all the replies!

I have checked all the source input settings, and believe they are correct, with the exception of the scaler bypass setting which I am unable to find on the receiver or in the manual. The manual states that up conversion from component to HDMI is automatic. I have also tried different inputs with the same result.

The Sony does work when I hook it up via component directly to the projector, and while that is a solution, I would prefer to have it run through the Halcro, and have the ssp working as it should.

I do have a local electronics repair shop that I can take it to, although I'm sure they are not familiar with the Halcro. They have been servicing McIntosh equipment for quite some time, so they are skilled with audio equipment.

Thanks again for all of your help!

I have tried the source out, both as comp and HDMI. Neither works. At this point, I'm thinking there must be something wrong with the component video board. I was hoping there might be some setting I was overlooking, but I seem to have tried everything.

Hopefully, it can be repaired without sending it overseas. At least it still has great sound and there is the workaround by hooking up the DVD via component directly to the projector.

One more possibility

4. User error

Last thing, did you try other comp inputs on the Halcro?

And you do not have an Hdmi cable simultaneously plugged into the player?

At this point I have tried all four component inputs, both with the DVD player and a Dish Network receiver. I have tried both the component output, with and without the HDMI output connected to the ssp. Something is going on with the component connection. When I first hooked everything up the component video passed through correctly, and I was using the HDMI output. It also worked with the component output.

Of course it could be user error. That's why I posted my question...

If you need it. I gave the last Halcro firmware. Could be corrupt. I would only install it if lack of component input requires IOU to dump it. If the firmware install fails, you have a brick.

Thanks for the offer. I keep forgetting that there is computer code involved with these things too. Must be my age.

Considering the risk of re-installing the firmware, I think I may attempt to have someone with proper testing equipment check the video inputs to make sure it is not a hardware issue before attempting the firmware re-install. I also sent Halcro an email this morning, and hopefully they will provide some guidance.

If you're lucky, they'll "provide some guidance" to the tune of at least $1,500.

$1500 wouldn't bother me if they fixed it and warranted the fix for at least 90 days. Cheaper than a new SSP with similar sound.

According to Gary, they've been seeing failures of the HDMI board which is relatively new and the processor boards. Who knows what you'll get when the company no longer supports the units and uses a third party electronics firm to do the work.

$1500 wouldn't bother me if I knew that would be the end of it. Right now, I am a little wary of this processor's reliability. Do you think the ADA has the sound quality of the Halcro? I may be better off, just biting the bullet, taking my loss, and buying something more reliable, if I can find a reasonably priced processor with the same sound quality.

I also sent Halcro an email this morning, and hopefully they will provide some guidance.

That might not get you a reply. You really need to call Lance in Adelaide and that will get things moving a lot quicker. He will know whether the LA service center can tackle this sort of repair, or whether you need to send it to Australia/Ireland. Freighting it outside the US is no big deal, I do it all the time. As long as you have the original boxes you'll be fine. Shipito will get you the best FedEx International Economy rates, I reckon about $200 will get it there. Or you could just sell it to me!

I appreciate the advice. I just checked the time difference, and should be able to call in a couple of hours.

Depending on the answers Lance provides, I may want to sell it. The turn around time to ship it overseas and back along with going through customs, and the chance of it being damaged in shipment each way may be more than I want to deal with. I do love the sound, but also want something that is reliable, and don't believe there should be a trade off in that regard.

My SSP200 just died again, and Lance has been responding quickly to my emails, but we have no solution yet.