Thanks for the response, exactly what I was looking for. I didn't figure the 7.1 analog input would be any better, and thought they might even be worse. Not sure if you can really take that digital crossover completely out of line. Anyhow, I think they should be there for SACD/DVDA anyhow. The processors DAC should handle the rest. If they would just make a digital output for these formats we wouldn't have to worry about, but for now we're going to have to pay for good quality DAC's in our DVDP's and processors.

BTW, my I have a Sony NS DVP999ES. It doesn a really fantastic job with SACD and is very good for video as well. Red book CD is another story.

I think I will pull the trigger and get the 990 in a few weeks!!! However, to take advantage of the DVI In/Outs, I am looking to change/upgrade my DVD player to one that has a DVD/HDMI output. However, it must be a Universal DVD-A/SACD player. Here, I'll need some direction or rather recommendation(s) on what's hot and what' not. Also, I thinking of selling my SVS 20-39cs passive sub for the LFM-1. There I can sell both the SVS and Parasound HCA-2003 to offset some cost.

Thanks everyone, for your advice and observations regardless of Galaxy or Universe.

Anxious to here your comments and or critique here on planet Earth.

This one should be easy - for a DVI out DVD player get the Oppo 971H DVD. It upconverts over DVI to 720p and 1080i. Absolutely stunning picture on my Infocus 4805. No layer switch time at all. If it's something you look at, it currently resides at the top of the "Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity" DVD Shootout charts. This measures compatibility, chroma, layer changes and not really picture quality per se - but the Oppo finished above the ENTIRE Denon line including their flagship the DVD-5910.

The player is firmware upgradeable too - and Oppo has been fixing all kinds of things in response to feedback. Has a Faroudja deinterlacer in it also if you look for that.

It'll set you back $200.

oppodigital.com

The Oppo is a great player, although it is not a universal player and I've heard that it's DVD-Audio performance is only average. I'm using one for DVD-Video and an extremely satisfied with it, but I kept my Yamaha S1500 for DVD-Audio and SACD.

gonk/AndrewS

Are you suggesting that I get the Oppo for DVD-Video use only and keep the Denon for DVD-A/SACD and CD duty? Hmmm, that doesn't seem like too bad an idea.

That's what I'd suggest since you already have a good player for high-res audio - it's worked out nicely for me.

Again, thanks all for you help and insight

Yep - I second Gonk's recommendation. Finding a good universal player that excels in all areas is pretty much impossible. Find a good DVD-A/SACD player (you already have one and seem happy with it) and find a good DVD-Video player.

The Oppo certainly fits the bill of good DVD-Video and if you just get the Oppo you've definitely saved money over having to go to a higher end Denon Universal device to get your DVI and DVD-A/SACD.

Don't forget if you get the Oppo to check its firmware when you get it and update it to the latest if necessary. Makes a big difference.

Yep!! I already downloaded the firmware update and instructions. Awaiting delivery...

Next step....990. I'll keep y'all posted.

I think that'll be a nice combination for you - I've certainly been enjoying both my 990 and my Oppo. (That reminds me... Need to get a couple co-workers by the house at lunch one day soon to check out the Rush R30 DVD... )