I was told they're not better than the 990, for two channel, analogue mode, by someone else; but, beyond that, don't remember the details (which is why I didn't mention it). The first fellow was a retailer/installer, who dables in these things for himself, rotates through equipment via Audiogon (sold an Anthem D2).

Anyone serious about 2-channel music should be sure they know what they're getting before they buy in.

Also, if you're interested in surround modes, I think you still need to buy high-end to get the music algorithms outside of Dolby labs.

The 990 currently satisfies me and so I plan to wait it out (if you're patient and wise, I think this the best approach). In fact, I may even split the system in two and use my Zana Deux as a preamp for two channel, the 990 for everything else.

John