"I probably remember to check in here about once every couple of weeks. Every time that I do and there isn't any news or updates on 998, my gut tells me something is wrong."

Colonial I might be in agreement with you if we were not that Scott's March 26th announcement about the 998 has not even been three months.
I am not saying anything other than I think we should have some patience.
If indeed some one out there is in need of a processor there are many varieties to choose and from many good companies with top end products.
Also there are a varity of outlets, Home and Audio stores, E-Bay, Audiogon, Best Buys and the list goes on.
Like I wrote in an early post having the 990 is a good thing and I am please everytime I turn the sucker on. My neighbors are jealous, my friends are jealous, my family is jealous, hell my wife is jealous.
I am still looking forward to Outlaws' take on the 998. Regardless of when it happens. I for one are not in a rush.