Hi all,
Very tempting to buy a 950 s/h now they're sold for 500 bucks all over.
Can anyone comment on the sound quality vs the new 990 ?
I mean - in surround mode and in "direct stereo" mode.
Currently using the Marantz SR-8500 just as processor into my Rotel RMB-1095 monster 5ch amp, can't hear any difference in stereo direct vs direct cd-to-final operation.

Second question: Does the 950/990 feature discrete 7.1 on/off remote codes?
It's rather a nuisance (the Marantz) having to explicitly switch off 7.1 input before you can select some other audio source.

Thanks!
Barend

I've got some comments in my 990 review that might help a bit.

The two units behave differently as far as selecting the multichannel analog input. The 950 has a "6CH" button that switches to the multichannel analog input, and the next time you select a new input it switches away from the 6CH input - you don't have to manually switch it off. The 990 treats the 7.1 input as a separate, individual audio input, which also means you don't have to switch it off to go to a different source - just select that source and you're there.

hey barend how do you like your Rotel I just picked up a 1095 II off of ebay, I always wanted this amp now its on its way, I am coupling it with my Polk LSi9 (4ohm)