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@@briantracy1324 I'm close to finally getting my hands on a fine example of my dream multi-channel amp, a Sunfire Audio Cinema Grand Signature II. 425Wx5@8ohms. The Schitt unit pushing Optical from TV, USB from Streamer+NAS, and RCA split input from Phono Preamp & OPPO Player might prove to be simply Synful. Time for speaker upgrades!
While I was watching to the video, I was thinking in possibilities. It’s great for using with active speakers or for combine active speakers and amp + passive ones. It’s also useful for a surround desktop system, just for enjoy music and videos or even for gaming. I am nit sure if it could get a double stereo using the front and surround, but if it does it, it could be possible also to use with two amps or an amb and active speakers or just use it for doing comparations. The crossfeed habilitó for the headphones is also a good feature.
HDMI, while needed for Atmos, has become a joke. Did you know that the geniuses that make up the HDMI specs have said HDMI 2.0 no longer exists and everything is HDMI 2.1 now? Even HDMI 1.4 can be called 2.1 now. All 2.1 specs are now optional and it's up to the manufacturer to list what 2.1 "features" it actually supports. A good example would be the Homeatics android streaming box. It claims it's HDMI 2.1 but it's 20b, which doesn't exist anymore. Also, outside 8K, 2.1 isn't needed for video, only gaming consoles. The only reason TV manufacturers are using the term 2.0 is it would cause way too much confusion and they would get way too many returns. Now, while you and me might look at all the features imagine a mother trying to buy their kid a gaming monitor then buying one that claims 2.1, then does zero 2.1 "features". Also, no rerunning long HDMI runs when the spec changes which is a huge headache. Especially if you are running cables though walls or through the ceiling/crawlspace. Yes, everything back to HDMI 1.4 supports all audio formats but if you're a gamer you need 2.1 with most, if not all the optional features for things like VRR.
I’m one of those guys happy to post an opinionated comment before watching the entire video, so maybe this is covered, but on of the most useful features of HDMI for me is the CEC control of multiple components through the eARC connection. Is that something that USB C can presently support, and how long before itself is upgraded?
HDMI is both a complete mess and ubiquitous. It reminds me of what happened with USB 3 and the renaming of its zillion revisions. Needing a reference defeats the original purpose of these standards.
I'm strictly into two channel, but I have numerous amps and eight pair of speakers. This is all I need to experiment with multi channel. I ordered one!!
you will need a player that decodes SACD`s, 5.1multi channel, blu ray audio. Then from the player usb to the syn in usb, then rca to amps. Some Sony blu ray not all will work (cheap at goodwill) I suggest Pink Floyd Alan Parson mix in surround of dark side of the moon ! The quality of HIFI sound ! its Awesome.
@@jeffmarshall6752 This thing is not really relevant to multi channel sacds because it takes a stereo only input and creates a pseudo surround system from that.
As a long-time fan and subscriber of the channel, I have to say that this is the first video from Randy that I believe really needed another take. Specifically, he has three opportunities near the beginning to say, "Here's exactly what this thing *is*," and all three times he announces that he's about to do that, and then reverts to the usual segments in his review videos, such as "on the front." It gradually emerged why this piece is special and what it does and doesn't do, but the video was needlessly frustrating to watch. An "un-amplified home theater control center" takes, what, four or five seconds to say?
Randy needs to script his videos. When he wings it he has a habit of either getting repetitive or flat out missing key sections of whatever it is he's talking about.
@@TheRealPotoroo I love the guy but I'm also relieved that I'm not the only one who noticed that. There's a review of his that I value very highly and have watched many times -- I think it might be the Aiyima T9 -- in which he says, "I like it much better this way" or some-such, and it's not at all obvious what he's referring to.
I'd give him a break re scripting. I think his lack thereof makes it seem more like a conversation between "friends" rather than a professional presentation... not that he's not *professional* :)
The reason there's no vocals in the surround channels is because the surround outputs are based on the difference between the Left and Right channels (L-R and R-L). Vocals are usually placed at the center of the soundstage, thus vocals are coming out 'equally' from both the L and R channels. If the surround is derived from L-R and R-L, then center channel info will be subtracted out.
@@hippo319 Wiring up a "difference channel" speaker definitely counts as an older technology: Take a stereo system, wire a third speaker to the positive (or negative) contacts of both the left and right speaker outputs. Maybe put a potentiometer inline, so you can fiddle with the third speaker's volume. Hang speaker above your couch. Play any sort of stereo content. Voila! An ambiance channel! I did it in the 80's. It'll have a bunch of reverb, some instruments, but hardly any vocals. And yes, if you played some of that new-fangled Dolby matrix-surround content through such a system, it will "decode" that as well. Sort of. But all you really need is vanilla 2-channel content.
Before watching this video, I recommend reading the FAQ on this product on the Schiit site first. That's what I did (by accident!) and I therefore didn't have the same problem that other viewers did. I do wish Randi went into more detail about how the Presence and Width knobs impacted things....he said he could talk forever about it, and I'd like to see a longer video where he just nerds out on testing the settings and different modes.
Hey Randy, love your content, but as someone who wasn't familiar with the Syn before watching this video, I found it unusually difficult to follow. You first go over the dials without much of an introduction about this (somewhat unusual) device. You then switch to the remote control, before going back to the main unit for the inputs/outputs, and it isn't until the "final thoughts" section that you give a high-level explanation of what this device is and does. I kinda struggled to make sense of everything to be honest, and believe it would have been much easier to follow in pretty much the reverse order: high-level introduction, inputs/outputs, main unit controls, remote control, and then final thoughts. Kind of a "top-down" approach so to speak. Not a huge deal, this was still very informative, just food for thought for your future videos I guess? Anyway, thanks for the review! (edit: typos)
yup, this is a matrix thing like the old dolby stereo in film prints, or its competitor ultrastereo: yes the center channel is deduced by being in phase and in the centre, then extracted, but then so is the surround sound: it's basically everything that was encoded 180 degrees _out_ of phase. Sounds great for TV and basic movies for a wide variety of people, and the direct manual control of the centre channel level (instead of diving into a menu) is GREAT! But the surround signal is actually mono, being just the extracted out-of phase stuff. Like in the original film theatre setup, it's actually 4.1, not 5.1. All the surrounds have the same thing in them.
This had a Dolby Atmos processor, at least one HDMI input, and some height outputs, it really would be disruptive. As it is, I don't know what would do with it or who this is for.
Really niche market. When Marantz makes a $600 5.2 channel AVR with HDMI and the amplification built-in plus pre-outs for stereo purists, this is a very small set of people who care about TV sound quality a bit and have the knowledge to know how to set this up (and even be aware of Schiit), but who don't care about TV sound quality enough to get a proper AVR or pre-processor. I was really excited for the first 5 minutes though while I thought this might have HDMI.
I don't know about disruptive, but what you describe is an AV preamp. Lots of them out there. This is more of a multi-channel preamp with equalization. Not true surround, but a good facsimile. Like he said, it's probably more for people that want to move beyond a soundbar, but don't want to mess with a receiver.
@@geraldmcmullon2465 That's a good point about active speakers. This would be ideal for those, as it would tidy everything up and save you from having to scrounge up 2 or 3 separate amps. It's best use would probably be as a PC or console sound system, IMO.
@@boneseyyl1060 To avoid the overused trope "disruptive", An Atmos AV pre/processor nearly 1/3 the cost of the current lowest price alternative would change things up for a lot of people. Especially if the managed to keep it remarkably simple
THIS!!!! its a "surround sound processor"....yea, from 1993 at best! Without HDMI, optical ain't gonna decode good bitrates. this ain't hi-fi. it's just a flop, an AIWA boombox at best.
I don’t quite understand - can this high pass the main channels to do bass management? That would surely be the most important feature for the application, otherwise I think it’s way too niche. For movie watching it’s very silly to try and extract the center channel from a downmixed stereo signal, when the multichannel output is clean. If anything I would say a much more interesting application is the reverse one: make a small signal processor that receives atmos etc, and downmixes to stereo with center channel boost capability and bass management. That would actually be practical for the masses.
I want one! I was so afraid this was some kind of April Fool gig when I first saw it the other day, lol. I have a long history of loving immersive sound formats, multi-channel music, and oddball electronics. Bob Carver's C-9 Sonic Holography unit is still a treat in 2023. I still have my first SACD/DVD-Audio player which was an Onkyo CS-V720 DVD mini shelf system. Eventually purchased an OPPO player for all my disc formats before they went out of production. These days the OPPO feeds preamp outputs direct to 5.1 channels of amplifiers for a very simple setup. So the idea of the Syn is right up my alley. In fact, my first true surround system came by using an oddball add-on component, the Yamaha DSP-E492 to a Carver stereo setup. I think the Syn was made for me!
maybe to you, but this is literally exactly the thing i was looking for for my setup. i’ve been wanting to get a surround sound setup using my studio monitors instead of actual surround sound speakers and the syn has the rca outs i need
Great video, the Syn makes so much sense for Audiophiles, who like to watch Netflix series too in good quality, without the constantly changing surround formats. Just ordered one to use this as a pre-amp for the Vidar and will indeed use a Ayima A07 for the center as a FINALLY 3.0 front system. THANKS RANDY
Why? The surround sound that comes from this won't even come close to actual surround sound. I thought audiophiles are about playing back what was recorded? This is playing back something that has nothing at all to do with what was recorded. Constantly changing surround formats?! I'm currently using an AVR that only does AC3 and DTS... formats that have been obsolete for a decade now? It still works. And I get actual surround sound. And if the device supported Dolby Atmos, what else is there supposed to come? Atmos was introduced 2014 and is the standard until now, and will probably remain so for the foreseable future. And even when something better should come around, you'll be able to use it.
The ability to switch from 2 channel music listening to multi channel video watching without having to physically change out my vintage gear is brilliant. This makes so much sense for us that mostly listen to music but occasionally want to watch a movie. Just the addition of the center channel and sub feature sold me on this.
Bit of an audio noob but does this mean I can attach this to my stereo amp and then attach some surround speakers to it without investing in a separate multi-channel amp?
@@onibon1990 you'll be able to use your existing stereo amp for your main speakers. You will need to add additional amps for you center, surround and sub channels.
@@onibon1990 It means you can replace your stereo amp but need powered, active or a power amp to passive speakers as it passes line level output to 6 channels. e.g. the front speakers could be run from your existing amp connected to an aux or tape input with rears, centre and sub being active speakers.
This is almost exactly what I want. It just needs to also have at least Class D amp built in to power the main, center and rears. The sub is fine as a pre-amp output because it's easy to find fairly decent powered subs on the cheap. This is something I would love to have on my computer desk setup with a 3.1 configuration (front main, center and sub). Adding in an additional amplifier per channel makes it a no-go for the somewhat budget minded. I daily drive an SMSL SA300 DAC/Amp with a set of Bic America DV62si bookshelves and F12 subwoofer. It's not perfect, but it's excellent for what it is. The only thing I REALLY want that it doesn't have is a dedicated center channel. Is there anything on the market that is both a DAC and an amplifier, has multiple analog and digital inputs, and rocks more than 2.1 channels that isn't either a GIANT receiver or is outrageously expensive?
I stumbled upon the Syn on their website the other day and I was fascinated but kinda baffled by it. Thanks for explaining it. It's a little weird to need separate amps, but I guess the modular route has its advantages too. I guess powered monitors is the other option, which could be more practical for gamers too.
You could use one 5.1 amp, multiple amps aren't required, it's just an option. A lot of high end systems use separate amps but that's more about more power and channels than anything else. If you had 11+ channels multiple amps are usually needed. Like 7 speakers, 4 ceiling speakers. Subs obviously have their own amps so the sub output would go directly into the sub input. Most 11+ channel home theater dedicated amps cost 15K+. Dennis receiver that supports this many channels is 3K+ but that's a receiver and amp combo and supports decoding of all audio formats. The only downside to this is no decoding of things like Dolby digital and DTS IMO. It uses older matrix software that has been used in receivers for years to turn a 2 channel signal into a 5.1 like audio output signal like you would get with Dolby Digital.
@@JoshFisher567 is there an affordable 5.1 amp out there that has separate analog inputs for all the channels? All the ones that I've seen would replace this rather than work with it.
@@illyth63 well you can use two stereo power amps, or four monoblocks or a four channel amplifier which would be the cheapest solution. You don't need an amp for the subwoofer, just the lfe out from the schiit syn itself, nobody uses passive subwoofers today anyways. Audiophonics sells the hpa-q250nc for 1090.00€ with four channels it would be a good match for the syn
Cool product. I've been lamenting for years that there was not a small form factor, 3-5 channel receiver/pre-pro. I ended up ditching my 3.0 living room setup with an old receiver for a pair of The Fives about 2 years ago. While I enjoy them, I had always wondered about a way to add a center channel speaker I have laying around, and this could be it.
Nope, I almost thought I had a replacement but looks like I'm keeping the Creative Soundblaster X7 for longer! Bass management, high and low pass filters, multiple configurations, 2.0, 2.1, 3.0, 3.1, 4.0, 4.1, 5.0, 5.1, Dolby digital on optical in, active amp for the front two channels as well as pre outs for all channels. Bluetooth aptx, usb, line in, headphone out, mic in, op amp swapping.. this thing is a beast in its own right and nothing seems to overtake it with what it can do. This schitt box seems to be similar to a Creative Soundblaster X4 with no decoding, and that thing does have proper bass management
When I moved from another country, my Marantz SR7015 must have been dropped by the shipping company, because it will not work with my new TV. After seeing this video, I ordered the Schiit Syn as a stop gap measure while waiting to search for an authorised Marantz repair centre. Looking forward to receiving this product and being able to hear my loudspeakers again.
I just got the Syn and cobbled together a Frankenstein system of powered speakers and I love this thing. I just put on a movie/show, twist a couple knobs, and eventually it gets to a sweet spot. I’m watching The Thing right now and the kennel scene sounded great. When they’re in the hallway the sound of the dogs barking was in the surrounds while the dialogue was nice and centered. It just… works man idk. I’ll always be stereo for ‘serious’ listening, but music on this thing is just plain fun too. super immersive. It’s definitely niche, but if this thing ‘speaks to you’ in any way I say go for it. I’m running a living room/listening room with a PS5, record player, and a HTPC, so the inputs were perfect for me. Do you have some extra speakers? Here’s a way you can still use them. Who cares if they match, you’re gonna EQ em on the Syn anyways. Just enjoy yourself.
Thanks for the head's up about the Syn Randy. Very Interesting: I had the idea to try a external surround processor with my two channel rig for ambiance extraction on my live CDs. I tried this a few weeks ago using an old Audiosource Model 3 processor and the surround effect wasn't very good. Given the unit was likely ~ 30 years old or so who knows if it worked properly. I've heard ambiance extraction done right on a Theta Casablanca prepro years ago and the effect was amazing on live content from any source (including live FM radio concert broadcasts). It was like being at the live event sonically. I trust Schiit a lot more than Audiosource for high fidelity, so I'm definitely going to give the Syn a try.
This is so cool. What's missing to me is a 3-channel Rekkr or GHorn. I feel like they could slowly expand their surround section. Maybe their next iteration can have an optional expansion for a 3rd channel?
I’m a surround junkie and this got me excited, but fell really short for a few reasons. I would love to see how it would decode my quadraphonic records, but it has no phono input. It’s also impossible to find a modern receiver with analog inputs so you can’t really hook it to a single amp for surround sound.
Look for an amp with multi-channel inputs. I assume that's what you want for quad sound, because phono inputs and and stereo analogue inputs are basic features on most receivers. Multi-channel inputs will allow you to make the discrete connections for each channel.
I have a room where surround speakers aren't really possible. I'd be curious how this thing sounds with everything front-presence whether that be 3 channel (LCR) or 5 channel with the LCR + 2 Surrounds right up front? I suspect if this is to convert 2-channel into surround sound...most people that currently have a 2 channel setup are like that for similar reasons (an entire theater setup isn't feasible whether it be vintage equipment or the room).
Your link to the syn goes to the rekr. At first glance I thought this was 149. Which I thought well priced, but at 400? Nope. At around that price I can but a second hand surround pre, those things don't cost anything if they don't have HDMI. Saw a proceed for just 100 more.
Basically, Hafler circuit tweaked. I have a McCormack MAP-1 (made by Conrad Johnson) that does the same thing. Bought it back in the nineties. HDMI ARC input would be nice but would add costs and extra processing.
It takes a stereo output from your TV and creates an artificial surround mix. Your bulky AV takes multiple channels decoded from dolby etc and allows you to individually tweak each channel to your optimum sound taking in to account room acoustics etc. It is a very different animal to an AV receiver but a very simple way to achieve 5 channels of sound from a pcm or analogue stereo source.
I've had a couple of matrix style surround processors in the 1990's and early 2000's. I think one of them was the Heathkit AD-2550. Then it was Dolby Digital surround, and finally upgraded to a 10 speaker ATMOS system mid 2022.
Hey Randy! I don’t really need one of these but I’m going to get one anyway! We have a 65” that has an optical out. Besides the Syn will look great sitting next to the Modius I just bought!
Nice bit of show & tell Randy! but one thing i found unclear was - is it stereo only for analog? or also the digital inputs? Well i checked, its stereo analog only even with the digital inputs - there is no discrete surround with digital input on this. too bad, if it did then I would buy it for gaming for sure. What I really want to see on the market is a ultra compact class d surround receiver. that would be perfect for gaming and movies at my gaming station (I don't like gaming with headphones).
It's reminiscent of the Creative Sound Blaster X7, but with better chassis. Similar price as well. However, the X7 does have a main L/R amp and Dolby plus support. This product seems very tailored PC users.
Yeah... the SYN seems... honestly kinda silly. If it had a way to address the 6 channels over USB... it might have been better. But as is... I don't think it's a good proposition. The Creative Labs X4 has more functionality and is 1/4th the price. The X7 blows it outta the water, I think it's discontinued though :(
So no HDMI means no lossless surround sound support. I can't think of another person besides myself still using Optical for video sources TBH, and I plan upgrading.
A real cheap way to get surround sound without spending any money is to connect a second pair of speakers to the B speakers + L and + R. Discovered it reading an old Radio Electronics magazine.
Sooo…I can’t just connect my left and right speakers correct? Since it only has one L and R output? What else would I need in order to use my bookshelf speakers for this? I heard you mention you need separate amps? What does that mean? You hook up the speakers to the separate amp and then to the Syn?
Wondering if this would be a perfect fit for my current "set up". Inherited some Active studio monitors and an old active sub with no idea how to get them up and running on my TV (totally newbie to home audio). Would this be a good solution or is there a better (budget) alternative?
Sounds like a product for Macs or PCs if it can take a USB audio connection and break that into six channels. I was looking for a long time for a macOS solution (eventually found a different product), as those computers only support multi-channel sound via HDMI without the help of external add-ons.
Let's see... It costs $400 and, with exception of having a built-in DAC and headphone amp, it's nowhere near as versatile as the old Yamaha DSP-1/DSR-100Pro setup from the mid-1980s, which at least has actual Dolby (Pro-Logic, but I digress) and 6.1/7.1 capability. Hard pass!
Why there is no device that takes eARC signal (atmos/dd/dts) and outputs digital stereo for each pair + center + sub? You could have a system build on active speakers which are really good these days.
A similar technology came out in the early 70s , called quadraphonic sound. There were phonograph records with 4 channel soundtracks providing amazing surround sound. Unfortunately it didn't become popular. I had a decoder for those recordings that could also take a standard 2 channel recording from a record or cd, and derive the reverb, echoes and crowd noise from the sides and rear of the concert hall, placing you very realistically in the center of the concert hall! Great technology from the pre-digital era!
This is a product lots of people could consider. For example, I have surround system and I have hi fi ( not calling it audiophile ) system in same room . Two amps and 4 left right speakers + the centre and rear speakers. Two different systems. This allows me connect all under 1 control and get rid of two L/R speakers . Just wondering how good the DAC is on the unit
This is actually what I was looking for last year and struggled to find it. Ended up buying a sound blaster x4 and Logitech surround sound system. I didn’t want to use HDMI at all.
So this is exactly like the Optimus dolby surround sound reciever ffom radioshack in the 80s only u need separate amps or powered monitors. To go with it
Eh im sure it sounds good but I'll stick with my Onkyo and Yamaha HT receiver's for all my video needs and my analog separates for my music. I used to love buying new tech and hooking everything up but it seems that tech has come to a flatting out stage and nothing is really coming to the table that i cant live without. Great video BTW.
Seems like a great way to not waste a great DAC and/or streamer. If I have a Bluesound N130 feeding a Bifrost and then feeding this, would make for a musical HT experience I would think. Look forward to a follow up if in the works.
I'm confused about one thing: The Schiit website goes to great lengths to specify that the Optical Out of TVs is Stereo Only. This unit supports Optical Out. Are these surround channels 'invented' by the processor? Is there an affordable unit that supports true surround, with HDMI?
My lg tv can send Dolby digital and 5.1 to my sound bar with rear speakers. Not sure what schiit means with the stereo only. I assume the sun can process surround signals.
What inexpensive 3 channel amps do you recommend for the Syn to run the center and rear channels ? Parasound ZoneMaster 4 ? Emotiva BasX A3 ? or something else entirely ?
I wish they would do a preamp or 2 channel receiver with hdmi eARC and preouts. The only one im aware of is the marantz nr1200 and that thing is a bit pricey for what it is being its only 75w per channel.
@geraldmcmullon2465 im aware they have converters on the marketfor that. What im talking about is a 2 channel receiver or preamp with hdmi eARC and preouts. 99.99% of the 2 channel receivers on the market dont have hdmi input/output. If you want to pair your home stereo to your tv, you have to use optical (if that option is available) if not, use rca inputs.
@@Libertà_sulla_vita Yes, the only reasonably priced stereo amps with eARC that I know of, are the Bluesound Powernode and the Powernode Edge. There are also a few with only HDMI ARC, like the Marantz NR1200, Denon DRA-800H, the Arcam SR250 (no 4k HDCP 2.2 though), the Onkyo TX8270 and several NADs like the 389 and 399 but those are pretty expensive. Its also not clear whether these are ARC or eARC, as NAD says its the latter, whereas the amps say ARC at the back. The 368 and 388 can also get 4K HDMI switching, but only if you add the MDC module.
Mmmm, it’s an updating of the Fosgate Model 5 from the mid 90’s! That was a cool piece of kit for the time, I had one and loved it. Would I buy such a thing now? No. But it’s a fun idea. Jason Stoddard does cowboy electronics so that I don’t have to.
Reminds me of the awesome Dynamo QD1 from around 1999 that did matrix decoding. It could sound amazing with acoustic and live music recordings. As I remember it, J&R Music World closed them out for 19.95. I vastly preferred it to most of the over processed early Dolby Digital modes for music. McCormack included similar functionality in their early 2000's MAP-! Multichannel Preamplifier, called ARM (Ambiance Recovery Mode). That could also sound excellent with music.
Randi Thx for your video about this new Schiit Product. I own 3 Schiit products : Mani, Loki, and a Saga. Bottomline question, Can I use the SYN to enhance my current 2 Channel Stereo system to provide a Surround sound Flavor from the 2 Speakers?
As this is to work as a hometheater replacement, i would ditch the headphone out and the usb input and instead have binding posts for speaker outs. (speaker(s) amplifier) Much more usable in my opinion. Like if this and the aiyima a09 had a baby. I would buy one. :)
This is good timing. Trying to reduce the number of wires on my floor (and being able to use/place all the new small amplifiers i've been buying lately. Looking at you, CAM-Fam), i'm using pre-outs to send signal wirelessly to different amplifiers.
this thing is a rip off. My yamaha AVR was $380 5 years ago, has brown burr dacs, does all the surround formats, does actual surround not 1970s fake surround, does HDMI switching and oh by the way doesnt need a separate amp.
My system is based around a vintage Sansui Amp. I use a Bluesound Node with eARC for tv audio but with the eARC I thought I’d get to add wireless surrounds for movies but NOPE. So this might do what I want. I just hope it works fine without a center channel
i am still waiting for someone to do a full review on the SYN, i think it is what music lovers need when they aren't that crazy about bombs and earthquakes on a flat screen. the only thing I'm not sure about the SYN is that all outputs are full range, i don't mind about the sub because it's got a crossover, but i prefer my fronts to be cut off at 100 Hz or so because they are small. is there an external crossover that can take care of my worries?
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I still have (and use) a Hughes SRS processor from the 90' the best 3d sound over two speakers I ever heard.
Wait, I saw 6 knobs......... Oh!!! You ment on the thingy.. I get it now 🤪😉😉😉 I joke, but great video again. From a kid who reversed polaritied his "surround" speakers and got his dad's 2 channel radio shack stereo to do surround, this DAC speaks to me in the old school simplicity sense. Cool stuff
I imagine this would be perfect for someone who has one system for both music and television. I'm thinking small spaces, apartment living, etc.. The only drawback is that you need to have 3 separate amps all with their own separate power cords. That could be too much clutter for a lot of people. Schiit should make a 5ch power amp. Maybe it could have 80w for left and right, 40w for front and 20w for the rears. I imagine a system with SYN, 1 Vidar and 2 Gjallrhorn would sound pretty great in a smaller space.
You wouldn't really need 2 Gjallrhorn. it'd be 1 Vidar, and like, 2 Rekkr's. You don't need a whole lot of amplification for Center and Rear channels. And then since nobody uses Passive subs anymore, you can just use an active sub straight into the Syn. Personally if I do get the Syn, I'm going to run 1 Gjallrhorn and 2 Rekkrs. With one rekkr in mono mode for the center channel.
Matrix surround is soo easy!!! Take left and right positive from the amp to positive left and right on the speakers BUT connect BOTH negative leads of speakers together WITHOUT connecting to negative on amp .No connection and voila! No voices...A speakers for front and B speakers for surround!
I think the idea is cool. If you have some super expensive speakers and changing with the times and tech just isn’t your thing. This is a cool, simple receiver substitute. Unfortunately, given you also likely HAVE a dedicated receiver, I don’t see what it really does different. Also, I understand that you can buy an optical converter for HDMI and it helps with backwards and forwards compatibility, but it sort of makes this a headache right off the bat. I’m just not sure exactly who would want this. If anything, it seems best suited for like a home office that you also like to listen to music in. That’s about the only use case that makes sense to me.
This sounds fantastic going back to simplicity. I have a original circle surround decoder that I’m using with my Bryston 4bsst and 9bsst amps and bryston preamp. I paid $1000 for it back in the late 90’s , you set it and forget it, for movies there is 30 millisecond delay, no delay for music. J Gordon Holt absolutely loved it on music. I checked out surround sound preamps at the time for upwards 3 & 4 thousand dollars that would become out dated every 6 months. I’m happy as can be with it . Does the trick for me , simple.
I have an old adcom gfa 7000 that will pair right up to this. Im done with the avr chase myself and more of a music person now. Can't wait to try it out. Just wish it had some sort of primitive bass management for the rest of the channels. Update : It works great for my purpose! Small 5.0 set up. May add a sub next. Maybe not. The two volume knobs for the center and rear channels simplify easy set up. And then you tailor the sound with the other two. I had a multichannel amp to use so it worked out. Didn't want to spend $1100 on the Emotiva a just yet. No regrets. Schiit just makes gadgets that work.
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Pair it with a multi channel pro amplifier (not audiophile,, a stage amp) with BIG power like Crown ....
The comment section is fire ! Good job man :)
@@briantracy1324 I'm close to finally getting my hands on a fine example of my dream multi-channel amp, a Sunfire Audio Cinema Grand Signature II. 425Wx5@8ohms. The Schitt unit pushing Optical from TV, USB from Streamer+NAS, and RCA split input from Phono Preamp & OPPO Player might prove to be simply Synful.
Time for speaker upgrades!
While I was watching to the video, I was thinking in possibilities.
It’s great for using with active speakers or for combine active speakers and amp + passive ones.
It’s also useful for a surround desktop system, just for enjoy music and videos or even for gaming.
I am nit sure if it could get a double stereo using the front and surround, but if it does it, it could be possible also to use with two amps or an amb and active speakers or just use it for doing comparations.
The crossfeed habilitó for the headphones is also a good feature.
Dude, as long as you are not man enough to pronounce the brand name correctly, I will ignore you channel going forward. This is so annoying.
Just bought this from your recommendation...thanks for the assist...
No HDMI input......nope did not destroy home theater.
HDMI, while needed for Atmos, has become a joke. Did you know that the geniuses that make up the HDMI specs have said HDMI 2.0 no longer exists and everything is HDMI 2.1 now?
Even HDMI 1.4 can be called 2.1 now. All 2.1 specs are now optional and it's up to the manufacturer to list what 2.1 "features" it actually supports.
A good example would be the Homeatics android streaming box. It claims it's HDMI 2.1 but it's 20b, which doesn't exist anymore. Also, outside 8K, 2.1 isn't needed for video, only gaming consoles.
The only reason TV manufacturers are using the term 2.0 is it would cause way too much confusion and they would get way too many returns.
Now, while you and me might look at all the features imagine a mother trying to buy their kid a gaming monitor then buying one that claims 2.1, then does zero 2.1 "features".
Also, no rerunning long HDMI runs when the spec changes which is a huge headache. Especially if you are running cables though walls or through the ceiling/crawlspace. Yes, everything back to HDMI 1.4 supports all audio formats but if you're a gamer you need 2.1 with most, if not all the optional features for things like VRR.
I'm sorry but get ready for this everything is going to usbc
@@JoshFisher567 pointing out the ridiculous convoluted stare of hdmi does not negate the fact that it's a required element of modern home theater.
I’m one of those guys happy to post an opinionated comment before watching the entire video, so maybe this is covered, but on of the most useful features of HDMI for me is the CEC control of multiple components through the eARC connection. Is that something that USB C can presently support, and how long before itself is upgraded?
HDMI is both a complete mess and ubiquitous. It reminds me of what happened with USB 3 and the renaming of its zillion revisions. Needing a reference defeats the original purpose of these standards.
I'm strictly into two channel, but I have numerous amps and eight pair of speakers. This is all I need to experiment with multi channel. I ordered one!!
Multi channel can be fun too. Enjoy!
you will need a player that decodes SACD`s, 5.1multi channel, blu ray audio. Then from the player usb to the syn in usb, then rca to amps. Some Sony blu ray not all will work (cheap at goodwill) I suggest Pink Floyd Alan Parson mix in surround of dark side of the moon ! The quality of HIFI sound ! its Awesome.
@@jeffmarshall6752 This thing is not really relevant to multi channel sacds because it takes a stereo only input and creates a pseudo surround system from that.
Unless you have 5 identical speakers, this will most likely be a disaster.
The minimum requirement would be 3 identical speakers in front.
@@spiroszaharakis2648 Sorry, I don't drink the "identical speaker " Kool aid". I'll make due with what I have.
As a long-time fan and subscriber of the channel, I have to say that this is the first video from Randy that I believe really needed another take. Specifically, he has three opportunities near the beginning to say, "Here's exactly what this thing *is*," and all three times he announces that he's about to do that, and then reverts to the usual segments in his review videos, such as "on the front." It gradually emerged why this piece is special and what it does and doesn't do, but the video was needlessly frustrating to watch. An "un-amplified home theater control center" takes, what, four or five seconds to say?
Randy needs to script his videos. When he wings it he has a habit of either getting repetitive or flat out missing key sections of whatever it is he's talking about.
@@TheRealPotoroo I love the guy but I'm also relieved that I'm not the only one who noticed that. There's a review of his that I value very highly and have watched many times -- I think it might be the Aiyima T9 -- in which he says, "I like it much better this way" or some-such, and it's not at all obvious what he's referring to.
He just seems more into quantity of material vs quality and accurate content from my observations. 600+ videos Not all..but some.
@@rianredfield5252 Yikes, I wouldn't go *that* far -- but I don't disagree with TRP that his videos would benefit from more detailed scripting.
I'd give him a break re scripting. I think his lack thereof makes it seem more like a conversation between "friends" rather than a professional presentation... not that he's not *professional* :)
The reason there's no vocals in the surround channels is because the surround outputs are based on the difference between the Left and Right channels (L-R and R-L). Vocals are usually placed at the center of the soundstage, thus vocals are coming out 'equally' from both the L and R channels. If the surround is derived from L-R and R-L, then center channel info will be subtracted out.
Right but it's not using Dolby to separate it as he said, it's an older technology
@@hippo319 Wiring up a "difference channel" speaker definitely counts as an older technology: Take a stereo system, wire a third speaker to the positive (or negative) contacts of both the left and right speaker outputs. Maybe put a potentiometer inline, so you can fiddle with the third speaker's volume. Hang speaker above your couch. Play any sort of stereo content. Voila! An ambiance channel! I did it in the 80's. It'll have a bunch of reverb, some instruments, but hardly any vocals. And yes, if you played some of that new-fangled Dolby matrix-surround content through such a system, it will "decode" that as well. Sort of. But all you really need is vanilla 2-channel content.
matrix surround circuit
Before watching this video, I recommend reading the FAQ on this product on the Schiit site first. That's what I did (by accident!) and I therefore didn't have the same problem that other viewers did. I do wish Randi went into more detail about how the Presence and Width knobs impacted things....he said he could talk forever about it, and I'd like to see a longer video where he just nerds out on testing the settings and different modes.
Hey Randy, love your content, but as someone who wasn't familiar with the Syn before watching this video, I found it unusually difficult to follow. You first go over the dials without much of an introduction about this (somewhat unusual) device. You then switch to the remote control, before going back to the main unit for the inputs/outputs, and it isn't until the "final thoughts" section that you give a high-level explanation of what this device is and does. I kinda struggled to make sense of everything to be honest, and believe it would have been much easier to follow in pretty much the reverse order: high-level introduction, inputs/outputs, main unit controls, remote control, and then final thoughts. Kind of a "top-down" approach so to speak. Not a huge deal, this was still very informative, just food for thought for your future videos I guess? Anyway, thanks for the review! (edit: typos)
yup, this is a matrix thing like the old dolby stereo in film prints, or its competitor ultrastereo: yes the center channel is deduced by being in phase and in the centre, then extracted, but then so is the surround sound: it's basically everything that was encoded 180 degrees _out_ of phase. Sounds great for TV and basic movies for a wide variety of people, and the direct manual control of the centre channel level (instead of diving into a menu) is GREAT! But the surround signal is actually mono, being just the extracted out-of phase stuff. Like in the original film theatre setup, it's actually 4.1, not 5.1. All the surrounds have the same thing in them.
This had a Dolby Atmos processor, at least one HDMI input, and some height outputs, it really would be disruptive. As it is, I don't know what would do with it or who this is for.
Really niche market. When Marantz makes a $600 5.2 channel AVR with HDMI and the amplification built-in plus pre-outs for stereo purists, this is a very small set of people who care about TV sound quality a bit and have the knowledge to know how to set this up (and even be aware of Schiit), but who don't care about TV sound quality enough to get a proper AVR or pre-processor.
I was really excited for the first 5 minutes though while I thought this might have HDMI.
I don't know about disruptive, but what you describe is an AV preamp. Lots of them out there. This is more of a multi-channel preamp with equalization. Not true surround, but a good facsimile. Like he said, it's probably more for people that want to move beyond a soundbar, but don't want to mess with a receiver.
@@geraldmcmullon2465 That's a good point about active speakers. This would be ideal for those, as it would tidy everything up and save you from having to scrounge up 2 or 3 separate amps. It's best use would probably be as a PC or console sound system, IMO.
@@boneseyyl1060 To avoid the overused trope "disruptive", An Atmos AV pre/processor nearly 1/3 the cost of the current lowest price alternative would change things up for a lot of people. Especially if the managed to keep it remarkably simple
THIS!!!! its a "surround sound processor"....yea, from 1993 at best! Without HDMI, optical ain't gonna decode good bitrates. this ain't hi-fi. it's just a flop, an AIWA boombox at best.
I don’t quite understand - can this high pass the main channels to do bass management? That would surely be the most important feature for the application, otherwise I think it’s way too niche. For movie watching it’s very silly to try and extract the center channel from a downmixed stereo signal, when the multichannel output is clean. If anything I would say a much more interesting application is the reverse one: make a small signal processor that receives atmos etc, and downmixes to stereo with center channel boost capability and bass management. That would actually be practical for the masses.
I want one! I was so afraid this was some kind of April Fool gig when I first saw it the other day, lol.
I have a long history of loving immersive sound formats, multi-channel music, and oddball electronics. Bob Carver's C-9 Sonic Holography unit is still a treat in 2023. I still have my first SACD/DVD-Audio player which was an Onkyo CS-V720 DVD mini shelf system. Eventually purchased an OPPO player for all my disc formats before they went out of production. These days the OPPO feeds preamp outputs direct to 5.1 channels of amplifiers for a very simple setup. So the idea of the Syn is right up my alley.
In fact, my first true surround system came by using an oddball add-on component, the Yamaha DSP-E492 to a Carver stereo setup.
I think the Syn was made for me!
Finally! Someone that gets it!
I remember when my parents had a Sony TV that had SRS (sound retrieval system). I enjoyed the faux-surround as it really widened the sound stage.
This product is a solution to a problem that does not exist.
Wrong
maybe to you, but this is literally exactly the thing i was looking for for my setup. i’ve been wanting to get a surround sound setup using my studio monitors instead of actual surround sound speakers and the syn has the rca outs i need
Great video, the Syn makes so much sense for Audiophiles, who like to watch Netflix series too in good quality, without the constantly changing surround formats. Just ordered one to use this as a pre-amp for the Vidar and will indeed use a Ayima A07 for the center as a FINALLY 3.0 front system. THANKS RANDY
Why? The surround sound that comes from this won't even come close to actual surround sound. I thought audiophiles are about playing back what was recorded? This is playing back something that has nothing at all to do with what was recorded.
Constantly changing surround formats?! I'm currently using an AVR that only does AC3 and DTS... formats that have been obsolete for a decade now? It still works. And I get actual surround sound. And if the device supported Dolby Atmos, what else is there supposed to come? Atmos was introduced 2014 and is the standard until now, and will probably remain so for the foreseable future. And even when something better should come around, you'll be able to use it.
The ability to switch from 2 channel music listening to multi channel video watching without having to physically change out my vintage gear is brilliant. This makes so much sense for us that mostly listen to music but occasionally want to watch a movie. Just the addition of the center channel and sub feature sold me on this.
you could also just use an integrated or pre with home theater bypass
Bit of an audio noob but does this mean I can attach this to my stereo amp and then attach some surround speakers to it without investing in a separate multi-channel amp?
@@onibon1990 you'll be able to use your existing stereo amp for your main speakers. You will need to add additional amps for you center, surround and sub channels.
@@onibon1990 It means you can replace your stereo amp but need powered, active or a power amp to passive speakers as it passes line level output to 6 channels. e.g. the front speakers could be run from your existing amp connected to an aux or tape input with rears, centre and sub being active speakers.
Aside from the DAC and headphone amp, Yamaha had all that and much more -- including actual, licensed Dolby decoding -- back in the 1980s .
This is almost exactly what I want. It just needs to also have at least Class D amp built in to power the main, center and rears. The sub is fine as a pre-amp output because it's easy to find fairly decent powered subs on the cheap. This is something I would love to have on my computer desk setup with a 3.1 configuration (front main, center and sub). Adding in an additional amplifier per channel makes it a no-go for the somewhat budget minded. I daily drive an SMSL SA300 DAC/Amp with a set of Bic America DV62si bookshelves and F12 subwoofer. It's not perfect, but it's excellent for what it is. The only thing I REALLY want that it doesn't have is a dedicated center channel. Is there anything on the market that is both a DAC and an amplifier, has multiple analog and digital inputs, and rocks more than 2.1 channels that isn't either a GIANT receiver or is outrageously expensive?
I stumbled upon the Syn on their website the other day and I was fascinated but kinda baffled by it. Thanks for explaining it. It's a little weird to need separate amps, but I guess the modular route has its advantages too. I guess powered monitors is the other option, which could be more practical for gamers too.
You could use one 5.1 amp, multiple amps aren't required, it's just an option. A lot of high end systems use separate amps but that's more about more power and channels than anything else. If you had 11+ channels multiple amps are usually needed. Like 7 speakers, 4 ceiling speakers. Subs obviously have their own amps so the sub output would go directly into the sub input. Most 11+ channel home theater dedicated amps cost 15K+. Dennis receiver that supports this many channels is 3K+ but that's a receiver and amp combo and supports decoding of all audio formats.
The only downside to this is no decoding of things like Dolby digital and DTS IMO. It uses older matrix software that has been used in receivers for years to turn a 2 channel signal into a 5.1 like audio output signal like you would get with Dolby Digital.
Used powered monitors and a sub for years. Did get a very good dac/preamp with Xlr and usb / optical / analog inputs.
@@JoshFisher567 is there an affordable 5.1 amp out there that has separate analog inputs for all the channels? All the ones that I've seen would replace this rather than work with it.
@@illyth63 well you can use two stereo power amps, or four monoblocks or a four channel amplifier which would be the cheapest solution. You don't need an amp for the subwoofer, just the lfe out from the schiit syn itself, nobody uses passive subwoofers today anyways. Audiophonics sells the hpa-q250nc for 1090.00€ with four channels it would be a good match for the syn
@@illyth63 Take a look at Rotel RMB-1506 (6x50W), Rotel RMB 1555 (5x120W) or Marantz MM7055 (5x140W).
Found you a few months ago and I'm impressed with your reviews and your knowledge of this part of the amp world. Thanks
Just tried a set of oil filled cables.
I no longer have a sweet spot but, I now have a sweet range.
Cool product. I've been lamenting for years that there was not a small form factor, 3-5 channel receiver/pre-pro. I ended up ditching my 3.0 living room setup with an old receiver for a pair of The Fives about 2 years ago. While I enjoy them, I had always wondered about a way to add a center channel speaker I have laying around, and this could be it.
To solve HDMI issues, just run HDMI connections into the TV, optical out to the surround processor, done.
Thanks!
wow! thank you so much
This is what I've been looking for. I'm running powered monitors on each channel, so no need for amps. It's perfect.
Thanks Randy! 👍
Nope, I almost thought I had a replacement but looks like I'm keeping the Creative Soundblaster X7 for longer! Bass management, high and low pass filters, multiple configurations, 2.0, 2.1, 3.0, 3.1, 4.0, 4.1, 5.0, 5.1, Dolby digital on optical in, active amp for the front two channels as well as pre outs for all channels. Bluetooth aptx, usb, line in, headphone out, mic in, op amp swapping.. this thing is a beast in its own right and nothing seems to overtake it with what it can do.
This schitt box seems to be similar to a Creative Soundblaster X4 with no decoding, and that thing does have proper bass management
I’m more interested in just mains and a center when watching TV and just mains for music. If this would do the trick I would buy one.
That's exactly the setup we use. We're very happy with it.
how do you wire in the center channel and sub woofer with only one pair of terminals on the back?
I too thought it was an april foolery! I just can't see anyone buying this for surround. Sorry.
Looks like it would be a great Preamp. The new intros are cool. The drone from Oblivion , thats a good one.
Great video! Did you get a chance to try the width/presence adjustments on headphones?
When I moved from another country, my Marantz SR7015 must have been dropped by the shipping company, because it will not work with my new TV. After seeing this video, I ordered the Schiit Syn as a stop gap measure while waiting to search for an authorised Marantz repair centre. Looking forward to receiving this product and being able to hear my loudspeakers again.
Love the new intros!
I just got the Syn and cobbled together a Frankenstein system of powered speakers and I love this thing. I just put on a movie/show, twist a couple knobs, and eventually it gets to a sweet spot.
I’m watching The Thing right now and the kennel scene sounded great. When they’re in the hallway the sound of the dogs barking was in the surrounds while the dialogue was nice and centered. It just… works man idk. I’ll always be stereo for ‘serious’ listening, but music on this thing is just plain fun too. super immersive.
It’s definitely niche, but if this thing ‘speaks to you’ in any way I say go for it. I’m running a living room/listening room with a PS5, record player, and a HTPC, so the inputs were perfect for me. Do you have some extra speakers? Here’s a way you can still use them. Who cares if they match, you’re gonna EQ em on the Syn anyways. Just enjoy yourself.
how does this compare to dolby atmosphere ?
@@rajendrabiswas I have 0 idea
Schiit does a great job making niche products. This isn't for everybody. But if it applies to a certain situation, it'z tha Schiit.
I am excited about this. Been dealing with a buggy Emotiva RMC-1L. Never again.
Dope intro!
Appreciate it
Thanks for the head's up about the Syn Randy. Very Interesting: I had the idea to try a external surround processor with my two channel rig for ambiance extraction on my live CDs. I tried this a few weeks ago using an old Audiosource Model 3 processor and the surround effect wasn't very good. Given the unit was likely ~ 30 years old or so who knows if it worked properly. I've heard ambiance extraction done right on a Theta Casablanca prepro years ago and the effect was amazing on live content from any source (including live FM radio concert broadcasts). It was like being at the live event sonically. I trust Schiit a lot more than Audiosource for high fidelity, so I'm definitely going to give the Syn a try.
This is so cool. What's missing to me is a 3-channel Rekkr or GHorn. I feel like they could slowly expand their surround section. Maybe their next iteration can have an optional expansion for a 3rd channel?
You could do a Rekkr in mono-block for the centre and then add two GHorns for left and right.
Planning this one for desktop gaming. I am currently using Schiit HEL 2e.
I’m a surround junkie and this got me excited, but fell really short for a few reasons. I would love to see how it would decode my quadraphonic records, but it has no phono input. It’s also impossible to find a modern receiver with analog inputs so you can’t really hook it to a single amp for surround sound.
Look for an amp with multi-channel inputs.
I assume that's what you want for quad sound, because phono inputs and and stereo analogue inputs are basic features on most receivers. Multi-channel inputs will allow you to make the discrete connections for each channel.
@@roybrandon343 yeah I actually went with an older av receiever with phono and multi-channel inputs. Works like a champ
had to go back and watch that zombie intro again! awesome, dude!
My living room is not big enough for surround sound but this seems like an easy way to add a center channel to my TV.
I have a room where surround speakers aren't really possible. I'd be curious how this thing sounds with everything front-presence whether that be 3 channel (LCR) or 5 channel with the LCR + 2 Surrounds right up front? I suspect if this is to convert 2-channel into surround sound...most people that currently have a 2 channel setup are like that for similar reasons (an entire theater setup isn't feasible whether it be vintage equipment or the room).
Your link to the syn goes to the rekr. At first glance I thought this was 149. Which I thought well priced, but at 400? Nope. At around that price I can but a second hand surround pre, those things don't cost anything if they don't have HDMI. Saw a proceed for just 100 more.
No Dolby or DTS processing of any sort... explain to me just HOW this is a home theater killer?!!!
It's click bait silly! Words don't matter.
FWIW, Schiit gives their defense of the approach in their FAQ.
Thanks for the review.
Basically, Hafler circuit tweaked. I have a McCormack MAP-1 (made by Conrad Johnson) that does the same thing. Bought it back in the nineties. HDMI ARC input would be nice but would add costs and extra processing.
What stops this from replacing a bulk av receiver? Can it do dolby surround decoding or my TV can probably do that already.
It takes a stereo output from your TV and creates an artificial surround mix. Your bulky AV takes multiple channels decoded from dolby etc and allows you to individually tweak each channel to your optimum sound taking in to account room acoustics etc. It is a very different animal to an AV receiver but a very simple way to achieve 5 channels of sound from a pcm or analogue stereo source.
Seems like the answer to a question no one asked.
I've had a couple of matrix style surround processors in the 1990's and early 2000's. I think one of them was the Heathkit AD-2550. Then it was Dolby Digital surround, and finally upgraded to a 10 speaker ATMOS system mid 2022.
Hey Randy! I don’t really need one of these but I’m going to get one anyway! We have a 65” that has an optical out. Besides the Syn will look great sitting next to the Modius I just bought!
Nice bit of show & tell Randy! but one thing i found unclear was - is it stereo only for analog? or also the digital inputs? Well i checked, its stereo analog only even with the digital inputs - there is no discrete surround with digital input on this. too bad, if it did then I would buy it for gaming for sure.
What I really want to see on the market is a ultra compact class d surround receiver. that would be perfect for gaming and movies at my gaming station (I don't like gaming with headphones).
It's reminiscent of the Creative Sound Blaster X7, but with better chassis. Similar price as well. However, the X7 does have a main L/R amp and Dolby plus support.
This product seems very tailored PC users.
Yeah... the SYN seems... honestly kinda silly. If it had a way to address the 6 channels over USB... it might have been better. But as is... I don't think it's a good proposition. The Creative Labs X4 has more functionality and is 1/4th the price. The X7 blows it outta the water, I think it's discontinued though :(
So no HDMI means no lossless surround sound support. I can't think of another person besides myself still using Optical for video sources TBH, and I plan upgrading.
A real cheap way to get surround sound without spending any money is to connect a second pair of speakers to the B speakers + L and + R. Discovered it reading an old Radio Electronics magazine.
Sooo…I can’t just connect my left and right speakers correct? Since it only has one L and R output? What else would I need in order to use my bookshelf speakers for this? I heard you mention you need separate amps? What does that mean? You hook up the speakers to the separate amp and then to the Syn?
Wondering if this would be a perfect fit for my current "set up". Inherited some Active studio monitors and an old active sub with no idea how to get them up and running on my TV (totally newbie to home audio). Would this be a good solution or is there a better (budget) alternative?
Sounds like a product for Macs or PCs if it can take a USB audio connection and break that into six channels. I was looking for a long time for a macOS solution (eventually found a different product), as those computers only support multi-channel sound via HDMI without the help of external add-ons.
I agree with comments that it would need HDMI (video switching) to be truly useful.
Let's see...
It costs $400 and, with exception of having a built-in DAC and headphone amp, it's nowhere near as versatile as the old Yamaha DSP-1/DSR-100Pro setup from the mid-1980s, which at least has actual Dolby (Pro-Logic, but I digress) and 6.1/7.1 capability. Hard pass!
would love something like this if it had an amplifier built in. Annoying that you need to chain so much stuff together for passive speakers.
I have the schiit bifrost and jotunheim I wonder how if I should add it as an preamp to give the surround sound to my system.
How would you control the volume when connecting this to a TV via optical? I would hate to need two remotes...
Why there is no device that takes eARC signal (atmos/dd/dts) and outputs digital stereo for each pair + center + sub? You could have a system build on active speakers which are really good these days.
latency and clock control to digital active speakers is an issue. Analogue active speakers is easy to do and set up.
Thoughts on this for use with the Meze 109 Pro? Goal is adding a Kraken and speakers later.
I'm still using a IBM T41p laptop and a T42p, as my media system.
Both run XP Sp2 and have no internet functionality.
They just keep working thought.
Good stuff! I support any company brave enough to lean AWAY from HDMI for the consumer market.
A similar technology came out in the early 70s , called quadraphonic sound. There were phonograph records with 4 channel soundtracks providing amazing surround sound. Unfortunately it didn't become popular. I had a decoder for those recordings that could also take a standard 2 channel recording from a record or cd, and derive the reverb, echoes and crowd noise from the sides and rear of the concert hall, placing you very realistically in the center of the concert hall! Great technology from the pre-digital era!
can i use Schiit Gunnr by connecting the RCA line out from Gunnr to the RCA inputs of SYN?
This is a product lots of people could consider. For example, I have surround system and I have hi fi ( not calling it audiophile ) system in same room . Two amps and 4 left right speakers + the centre and rear speakers. Two different systems. This allows me connect all under 1 control and get rid of two L/R speakers . Just wondering how good the DAC is on the unit
Jump to 5:30 into the video, where he finally describes the functions of the unit (like, what IS it). Intriguing product.
This is actually what I was looking for last year and struggled to find it. Ended up buying a sound blaster x4 and Logitech surround sound system. I didn’t want to use HDMI at all.
So this is exactly like the Optimus dolby surround sound reciever ffom radioshack in the 80s only u need separate amps or powered monitors. To go with it
Eh im sure it sounds good but I'll stick with my Onkyo and Yamaha HT receiver's for all my video needs and my analog separates for my music. I used to love buying new tech and hooking everything up but it seems that tech has come to a flatting out stage and nothing is really coming to the table that i cant live without. Great video BTW.
Seems like a great way to not waste a great DAC and/or streamer. If I have a Bluesound N130 feeding a Bifrost and then feeding this, would make for a musical HT experience I would think. Look forward to a follow up if in the works.
I'm confused about one thing: The Schiit website goes to great lengths to specify that the Optical Out of TVs is Stereo Only. This unit supports Optical Out. Are these surround channels 'invented' by the processor? Is there an affordable unit that supports true surround, with HDMI?
@James Michael so... The reviewed item does not support true 5.1 audio.
My lg tv can send Dolby digital and 5.1 to my sound bar with rear speakers. Not sure what schiit means with the stereo only. I assume the sun can process surround signals.
this sounds intersting ..I wonder how it would sound compared to dolby atmos and apple spatial audio ?
Corpus Christi local here. Great video as always. I’ve bought a handful of douk products based off your reviews. Great products
Good stuff!
What inexpensive 3 channel amps do you recommend for the Syn to run the center and rear channels ? Parasound ZoneMaster 4 ? Emotiva BasX A3 ? or something else entirely ?
Late reply, but we use an A3 for LCR and are very pleased with the setup for 2CH and fronts in 5.1.
I wish they would do a preamp or 2 channel receiver with hdmi eARC and preouts. The only one im aware of is the marantz nr1200 and that thing is a bit pricey for what it is being its only 75w per channel.
There are many small boxes that do exactly that, converting HDMI eARC to RCA analogue line level outputs for an AUX or tape input on an amplifier.
@geraldmcmullon2465 im aware they have converters on the marketfor that. What im talking about is a 2 channel receiver or preamp with hdmi eARC and preouts. 99.99% of the 2 channel receivers on the market dont have hdmi input/output. If you want to pair your home stereo to your tv, you have to use optical (if that option is available) if not, use rca inputs.
@@Libertà_sulla_vita Yes, the only reasonably priced stereo amps with eARC that I know of, are the Bluesound Powernode and the Powernode Edge. There are also a few with only HDMI ARC, like the Marantz NR1200, Denon DRA-800H, the Arcam SR250 (no 4k HDCP 2.2 though), the Onkyo TX8270 and several NADs like the 389 and 399 but those are pretty expensive. Its also not clear whether these are ARC or eARC, as NAD says its the latter, whereas the amps say ARC at the back. The 368 and 388 can also get 4K HDMI switching, but only if you add the MDC module.
Mmmm, it’s an updating of the Fosgate Model 5 from the mid 90’s! That was a cool piece of kit for the time, I had one and loved it.
Would I buy such a thing now? No.
But it’s a fun idea. Jason Stoddard does cowboy electronics so that I don’t have to.
Reminds me of the awesome Dynamo QD1 from around 1999 that did matrix decoding. It could sound amazing with acoustic and live music recordings. As I remember it, J&R Music World closed them out for 19.95. I vastly preferred it to most of the over processed early Dolby Digital modes for music. McCormack included similar functionality in their early 2000's MAP-! Multichannel Preamplifier, called ARM (Ambiance Recovery Mode). That could also sound excellent with music.
Randi Thx for your video about this new Schiit Product. I own 3 Schiit products : Mani, Loki, and a Saga. Bottomline question, Can I use the SYN to enhance my current 2 Channel Stereo system to provide a Surround sound Flavor from the 2 Speakers?
I'm digging the intro dude
As this is to work as a hometheater replacement, i would ditch the headphone out and the usb input and instead have binding posts for speaker outs. (speaker(s) amplifier) Much more usable in my opinion. Like if this and the aiyima a09 had a baby. I would buy one. :)
What’s the wattage for the speakers is what I am trying to figure out
I avoid bassy sounds so am I better off with Schitt Dac ,a Fossi amp and cheap speakers than powered speakers (AudioEngine) for example? Thanks !
This is good timing. Trying to reduce the number of wires on my floor (and being able to use/place all the new small amplifiers i've been buying lately. Looking at you, CAM-Fam), i'm using pre-outs to send signal wirelessly to different amplifiers.
this thing is a rip off. My yamaha AVR was $380 5 years ago, has brown burr dacs, does all the surround formats, does actual surround not 1970s fake surround, does HDMI switching and oh by the way doesnt need a separate amp.
My system is based around a vintage Sansui Amp. I use a Bluesound Node with eARC for tv audio but with the eARC I thought I’d get to add wireless surrounds for movies but NOPE. So this might do what I want. I just hope it works fine without a center channel
i am still waiting for someone to do a full review on the SYN, i think it is what music lovers need when they aren't that crazy about bombs and earthquakes on a flat screen.
the only thing I'm not sure about the SYN is that all outputs are full range, i don't mind about the sub because it's got a crossover, but i prefer my fronts to be cut off at 100 Hz or so because they are small.
is there an external crossover that can take care of my worries?
I still have (and use) a Hughes SRS processor from the 90' the best 3d sound over two speakers I ever heard.
Wait, I saw 6 knobs.........
Oh!!! You ment on the thingy.. I get it now 🤪😉😉😉
I joke, but great video again.
From a kid who reversed polaritied his "surround" speakers and got his dad's 2 channel radio shack stereo to do surround, this DAC speaks to me in the old school simplicity sense. Cool stuff
I imagine this would be perfect for someone who has one system for both music and television. I'm thinking small spaces, apartment living, etc.. The only drawback is that you need to have 3 separate amps all with their own separate power cords. That could be too much clutter for a lot of people. Schiit should make a 5ch power amp. Maybe it could have 80w for left and right, 40w for front and 20w for the rears. I imagine a system with SYN, 1 Vidar and 2 Gjallrhorn would sound pretty great in a smaller space.
You wouldn't really need 2 Gjallrhorn. it'd be 1 Vidar, and like, 2 Rekkr's. You don't need a whole lot of amplification for Center and Rear channels. And then since nobody uses Passive subs anymore, you can just use an active sub straight into the Syn. Personally if I do get the Syn, I'm going to run 1 Gjallrhorn and 2 Rekkrs. With one rekkr in mono mode for the center channel.
Matrix surround is soo easy!!! Take left and right positive from the amp to positive left and right on the speakers BUT connect BOTH negative leads of speakers together WITHOUT connecting to negative on amp .No connection and voila! No voices...A speakers for front and B speakers for surround!
I ordered a surround Jamo S 803 home theater system.. what amp to pair with this Syn dac? Or should I get a typical receiver?
I think the idea is cool. If you have some super expensive speakers and changing with the times and tech just isn’t your thing. This is a cool, simple receiver substitute. Unfortunately, given you also likely HAVE a dedicated receiver, I don’t see what it really does different. Also, I understand that you can buy an optical converter for HDMI and it helps with backwards and forwards compatibility, but it sort of makes this a headache right off the bat. I’m just not sure exactly who would want this. If anything, it seems best suited for like a home office that you also like to listen to music in. That’s about the only use case that makes sense to me.
Thanks Randy.
This sounds fantastic going back to simplicity. I have a original circle surround decoder that I’m using with my Bryston 4bsst and 9bsst amps and bryston preamp. I paid $1000 for it back in the late 90’s , you set it and forget it, for movies there is 30 millisecond delay, no delay for music. J Gordon Holt absolutely loved it on music. I checked out surround sound preamps at the time for upwards 3 & 4 thousand dollars that would become out dated every 6 months. I’m happy as can be with it . Does the trick for me , simple.
I have an old adcom gfa 7000 that will pair right up to this. Im done with the avr chase myself and more of a music person now. Can't wait to try it out. Just wish it had some sort of primitive bass management for the rest of the channels. Update : It works great for my purpose! Small 5.0 set up. May add a sub next. Maybe not. The two volume knobs for the center and rear channels simplify easy set up. And then you tailor the sound with the other two. I had a multichannel amp to use so it worked out. Didn't want to spend $1100 on the Emotiva a just yet. No regrets. Schiit just makes gadgets that work.