My new 950 had no red or blue dots in the serial number as a clue. The serial number was prefixed by "02-" verses "01-" on my old 950, if that means anything.

I would simply listen to your 950. If it sounds quiet to you, then that is what counts. Of course, you might give Outlaw a call, and ask them about it.

Another clue would be to raise and lower the master volume control: on the new 950, the level of hiss will _obviously_ increase and decrease as you turn the knob full clockwise and full counter-clockwise.

If the unit is replacing a previous 950, the difference will be obvious in that the new 950 will be way louder for a given volume setting than the old 950, assuming the trims have not been re-calibrated on the new unit.

[This message has been edited by soundhound (edited December 20, 2002).]