If you are going to the OPPO BDP-83 then the video processing part would be done there and since the Outlaw audio is likely superior you would seem to have the best of everything with the 997 and the 7.1 input from the OPPO. Since neither is on the street it is hard to say which is best in any regard. It is likely that the argument will go on for sometime yet (years). Choose the one that has the best warranty/service/reputation/features and be prepared to argue at a later time. For your use have you considered a new 990. It is a bargain at $699 and has the 7.1 input for the OPPO.