Trinnov spatial remapping has the potential of simulating a near-perfect immersive soundfield from 5 imperfectly-placed speakers, which, in the real world, has tremendous practical application. Unfortunately, it has so far proved to be impossible to deliver these benefits in a bug-free consumer-grade AVR or pre/pro. And even if it proves to be possible, the iron-fisted control that Trinnov may need to exert to convey its benefits -- IIRC the SN R-972, once Trinnov EQ and 3D remapping are activated, permits no adjustments to crossover points, channel levels or tone settings, with no possibility of superimposing surround modes such as Dolby PLIIx -- will be a real turn-off for many.

I think it's great that Outlaw is planning to continue development work on the 998 once the 978 is released, but in the meantime I agree with you that they should consider the 978 to be the new Outlaw pre/pro, and equip it accordingly. I think the apparent excitement over the 978 has to do with the fact that Audyssey is a proven, well known commodity, and that the 978 now, finally, seems to be more than vaporware.