The UMC 1 processor had it's problems. I think they have about fully recovered from that now. Also, they have Outlaw people working with them now if I recall correctly. I'm looking forward to the upcoming reviews because it's a product I myself am now eyeing, instead of going separates.
Yes, yes, why does that not surprise me? I suspect that even with room correction off there will be very audible differences in sound presentation, probably in Emotiva's favour. But the room correction of the Denon may level the playing field. We'll soon see!