Outlaw 950 AV Processor

Description

The Outlaw 950 Surround Sound Preamp/Processor is a classic early‑2000s home theater component from Outlaw Audio, a brand known for offering high‑feature audiophile‑oriented gear at strong value via direct‑to‑consumer sales. Designed as a pre‑amplifier and multi‑channel audio/video processor, the 950 carved out a niche among enthusiasts who wanted advanced surround decoding and flexible connectivity without the premium price tag typical of high‑end AVR processors of its day. At launch it was positioned as one of the most capable processors under $1,000, bringing advanced surround formats and customization features to hobbyist systems.

At the heart of the 950 is a Cirrus Logic‑based DSP engine (Cirrus CS49326) that handles a broad array of surround decoding options, including Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Surround EX, Dolby Pro Logic II, DTS, DTS‑ES (Matrix & Discrete), and DTS Neo:6. This decoding suite ensured compatibility with virtually any DVD‑Era soundtrack or multichannel source, making it versatile for both movies and music.

The 950 also offered some unique features for its time. Outlaw’s “bypass” mode lets all analog audio inputs route around the DSP processing directly to the volume control, preserving signal purity when digital decoding isn’t needed. Adjustable sound crossover options allow users to tailor bass management across front L/R, center, and surround channels, giving integration flexibility with subwoofers and speaker setups. A built‑in AM/FM tuner and second‑zone switching round out its feature set, enabling simple stereo listening or multi‑room usage without additional components.

Connectivity is robust for vintage gear, with multiple analog L/R inputs, 6‑channel analog bypass inputs for SACD/DVD‑A players and outboard decoders, and digital inputs (optical and coaxial) assignable across inputs. The unit also handles video switching via component, S‑video, and composite paths, with bandwidth aimed at supporting analog video sources at their full resolution.

Owners historically appreciated the 950 for its straightforward design and competitive performance relative to peers. In early forums and reviews, users noted that its sound quality—especially in bypass mode—could rival more expensive processors, and that it delivered plenty of power when paired with quality amplifiers. One reviewer commented that the simplicity of its surround processing (with no superfluous gimmicks) was a refreshing contrast to feature‑bloated options from bigger brands, while praising its value‑oriented approach.

Physically, the Outlaw 950 is a compact 1U component built with a classic analog‑era aesthetic—large display, sturdy chassis, and a backlit remote control for ease of operation. While it lacks modern conveniences like HDMI switching or network streaming, it remains a noteworthy piece of early Dolby Digital/DTS‑Era home theater history and a capable surround processor for vintage A/V systems.

Review Quotes

• “Superb value and superior sound quality compared to competitors.” — Enthusiast review noting performance relative to price.

• “One of the only processors under $900 with full surround decoding options.” — Brand/source description of feature set.

• “Flexible surround processing with Dolby Digital, DTS, Pro Logic II, and more.” — Spec summary of decoding capabilities.

Key Specifications

• Component Type: Surround sound pre‑amplifier/processor (AV pre‑amp)

• Surround Decoding: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Surround EX, Dolby Pro Logic II, DTS, DTS‑ES (Matrix & Discrete), DTS Neo:6

• DSP Processor: Cirrus Logic CS49326

• Analog Audio Section:

  • Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 90 kHz (+0/‑3 dB Bypass)

  • Signal‑to‑Noise Ratio: ~102 dB (Bypass)

  • Distortion: ~0.0038% (20 Hz – 20 kHz Bypass)

• Digital Audio Section:

  • Total Harmonic Distortion: < 0.005%

  • Dynamic Range: ~100 dB

• Inputs:

  • Analog L/R (7 pairs)

  • 6‑channel analog bypass

  • Digital: 2 coaxial, 4 optical

• Video:

  • Component, S‑Video, Composite switching

• FM Tuner: Built‑in AM/FM with presets

• Outputs: Analog L/R, digital outputs (optical & coax)

• Dimensions: ~17.1″ W × 4.6″ H × 14.8″ D

• Weight: ~17.6 lbs (8 kg)

• Special Features: Bypass mode for clean analog paths, adjustable crossover, second‑zone switching, remote control