Pm,
How does it compare to other avr you have had ?
In terms of functionality, I like it better. The menu system is slightly more confusing, but it's a lot easier to change things on the fly. Flexibility in manually adjusting sound parameters is much better. The Integra had the ability to process video, which is a disadvantage in the XMC-1 since it's only pass-thru on video. But for me, I wasn't using any of the video processing in the Integra anyway. HDMI switching is excellent.
Sound quality is a bit trickier. Over the past two months I've made a lot of changes in my system. I started out with Integra/XPA-5/SVS subs. First change I made was to two DIY 18" HST-18 sealed subs. Huge improvement. Next change was to replace my XPA-5 with Crown XLS2000's. I never would have believed that an amplifier can make that much difference. Much clearer, more dynamic sound with the pro amps. And the final change was to the XMC-1. So my current XMC-1/Crown XLS2000/HST-18 is far and away better than where I started.
With the XMC-1, I'd say the improvement was subtle, but present. Maybe a bit quieter and cleaner. The big advantage of the XMC-1 is Dirac. Dirac makes a big difference in clarity, imaging and soundstage. Without Dirac, I'm not sure I would get on the soapbox and claim superiority for the XMC-1. With Dirac, I don't think there is much out there to compete in the same price range.
I'll add a couple qualifiers. First, I haven't heard any of the newer, advanced versions of Audyssey. The older version on my Integra would be like comparing Nissan Leaf (old Audyssey) to a Tesla (Dirac) - sorry if you aren't familiar with electric cars. So I don't really know how much better Dirac is to the current Audyssey. Second, if you want or need all the video processing and/or fancy audio codecs (Atmos, etc.), then obviously the XMC-1 isn't for you.
Finally, to give the proper context for what I'm hearing, I have Paradigm Studio 100's and matching center and surrounds for my speakers.