This will still do DSD to PCM to analog, but it may very well do it better than the S1500. When my wife and I have some time (kind of difficult with two sons, 4 & 1) I need to do a blind-test of the SACD performance of the 963SA and the 970H. My initial impression (non blind) was that the SACD performance of the 963SA was better, but I was using a different amp, my system was not properly calibrated, etc., etc., so I really need to do this again.

Knowing how thorough you are with your reivews, I can't wait to read it. Please get the 981HD as soon as it comes out.