MVP881 Planned Obsolescence?

[joeinid]

Originally Posted by jdandy

Heck, you want a firm ware update for the MVP881. I'd like to see McIntosh fulfill their software obligation for USB high resolution on the MCD1100. I am growing weary of McIntosh's seemingly empty promises, and continuously slipping delivery dates for firmware. Like you, I am a huge McIntosh fan, but there comes a time when other manufacturers leads are leaving McIntosh in the dust and garnering my attention.

+1

I too would like to see an update. C'mon McIntosh, please!

[Formerly YB-2]

McIntosh's engineering talent seems to be wrapped up bringing out such stunning audio/technological advances as green LEDs under the small signal tubes in the MC275. Moving from the sublime to the gauche. Beginning to think that D&M is tiring of McIntosh. Look at who is handling sales/marketing. Not a good sign.

[New to Mac]

Originally Posted by akai

Obviously different skill sets are needed for software development, not a strong point for Mc.

I submit it's not a matter of skill set, which is in abundant supply in the market and can be purchased, but instead an absence of focus and a lack of corporate commitment. I'm not as invested in the hobby or the brand as most of you, but this is how top-tier, long-lived brands start their slide into oblivion, and it makes me a bit sad.

[netroamer]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

It pains me to post this... but I feel I have a Duty to. I have two MVP881's, one in the Cape, and one in Florida.

I enjoy watching Blu-Rays especially on the 881; it has superb video, and outstanding audio. Which brings us to the problem; BR java content is always evolving. The newest releases require a player to be running the latest firmware to run glitch free.

The MVP881 has not had a firmware update as long as I can remember, and in fact has difficulty, or the inability to play some of the latest releases. Pixelation, and freezing are common issues, as is the player sometimes is unable to even load a BR once past it's previews.

The Oppo, Pioneer Elite, and even the Sony PS3 has consistant support by means of firmware updates, and as such plays BR's reliably.

When you consider the cost of the 881 at $8K, and Oppo's at $500-$1500 something is drastically wrong.

I have had occasions where perhaps 30 minutes into a movie, it would pixelate and freeze. I would switch the same BR to my Oppo, and finish watching the movie just fine.

Everyone here knows I have McIntosh Blue in my blood, C'mon guys; show us some love with a firmware update for these wonderful and expensive players!

I could not agree more. I have been on the soap box since I purchased the MVP881 and posted my concerns/regrets on this site. I watched two Netflix rentals over the weekend, The Hurt Locker and Inside Job; neither a recent release, however both froze and/or skipped. I checking the discs with a 8x loop, I could find no blemishes that would have created the problem and they played fine on my Sony BDP-7000ES.

Although I a a new purchaser of McIntosh products, I have followed them since the mid-60's. During that time I always had the opinion that they made great amps, but when they introduced their first processors and other digital products, I sensed they were fish out of water. But, I must say, I love my MR88. But I regret my purchase of the MVP881 and unfortunately the MX150 as well.

[Vignotra]

The problem, I believe, derives precisely from the close relationship between the player mcintosh and denon marantz brother. If the update will not be developed for these the 881 also will not be updated. Frankly I worry more for the failure to update the mcd1100

[Still-One]

I will stay with my readily updateable Panasonic for under $300.

[Face]

Originally Posted by Vignotra

The problem, I believe, derives precisely from the close relationship between the player mcintosh and denon marantz brother. If the update will not be developed for these the 881 also will not be updated. Frankly I worry more for the failure to update the mcd1100

Maybe they need an even closer relationship. The Marantz AV7005 tells me whenever newer firmware is available and is simple to update. I believe there's been 3 updates since I've purchased the unit less than 6 months ago.

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by Face

Maybe they need an even closer relationship. The Marantz AV7005 tells me whenever newer firmware is available and is simple to update. I believe there's been 3 updates since I've purchased the unit less than 6 months ago.

Go ahead...

[Dj_AmTraX]

Not meaning to derail this thread, but I may be done with McIntosh. The lack of FW upgrade on my C50 left a sour taste in my mouth. Take a look at where they are heading. Making cables? Cables may have the highest margin in audio gear. I see greed on the backs of loyal customers.

[Still-One]

Originally Posted by Face

Maybe they need an even closer relationship. The Marantz AV7005 tells me whenever newer firmware is available and is simple to update. I believe there's been 3 updates since I've purchased the unit less than 6 months ago.

Thanks for the heads-up on the AVR 7005. I wonder if the SR 7005 is updatable? I did not connect mine to the internet so only my TV and Blu-Ray were getting updates. I will read up on that today.

Jim