I am running the XPA-5, XPA-2, and the UMC-1 (before that an onkyo tx-nr1007 and before that a yamaha rx-v1800 with a LPA-1)with my M80'2 and the sound is amazing and distortion free. Plenty of headroom. I will say if you are getting and XPA-2 to call them and let them know you are using it with M80's. I went to Emofest last fall and I was very impressed.
The UMC-1 is built like a tank, but still has a few bugs for me after the first firmware update. Although the firmware update resolved a lot of my issues. I love the sound quality it blows away my last two receivers. YMMV but I think if anyone is interested they should try their products. I have been happy with all four Emotiva products I have owned and I love my Axiom speakers.
I am sure it is disappointing to those that have had problems with the M80/emotiva combo I have just not had those issues.
How are the 2 ch music and movie SQ with UMC 1 compare with AVR? I am on a waiting list to try out their UMC 1. I heard it blows away Onkyo prepro 886 and very good with 2 channel music. Also, how is the Torino faroudja video processor? Last what did you do with XPA 2 for your F/R not getting distortion and clipping issues. Like I stated in other thread I get these 2 issues during PURE and DIRECT music modes, in rap or heavy bass pop. Have you try these two music modes?
