The SQ of the MMC-1 should be better than that of the 970 (as Gonk said - comparable to the 990). So that is something you need to keep in mind.

Also, all the LMC-1 issues are not present in the MMC-1 (totally different platform). Both companies have great Customer Service, so that should be a tie.

One thing about the LPA-1 - it is 125x5 + 50x2 unlike the 7125 which is 125x7 (hence the less cost also - though it is THE amp bargain of the decade!!!). Are you planning 5 or 7 speakers? Not the end of the world even you have 7 speakers as you can always increase the rear back channel levels to match the other 5...

I went with the 7125 even though I use only 5 speakers - I am bi-amping my fronts nad needed the same wattage for all 7 channels. For 125 x7, the 7125 has the best price/perf ratio.