I submitted an online Support ticket. Of course, it would be a holiday weekend.

It's definitely the 970. I swapped in my old Pioneer AVR and the problem went away. I'm using the Pioneer's pre-outs to my 7500, so I know the amp and related wiring is ok.

Man, before upgrading to the Outlaw, I was pretty happy with my Pioneer. I was wondering if it was really worth the $$$ for the upgrade. Now that I've had to go back, I realize how BAD it sounds by comparison. I can't get the 970 fixed too soon. (unless the 997 magically comes out in the next few days, that is )