If you are correct that the feature set would be the same, then you what you seem to be describing is an Outlaw prepro comparable to the 978 as the Oppo BDP-83SE was to the BDP-83. Basically the same box with minor changes (e.g. somewhat better DACs, perhaps a slightly better video processor from the same chip company and a quieter power supply, etc).

I think the differences may be less pronounced than the BDP-83/BDP-83SE or BDP-93/BDP-95 examples. The Model 978's already going to have an excellent analog section (ESS-based) and solid video processing with the ABT. We won't know for certain, but since the origin of the Model 978 was the Model 998 itself it seems reasonable to expect the room correction software to be the biggest single differentiating factor between the two. The OPPO players shared the same software, with only power supply and analog sections being altered.

You said it...

With the industry constantly adding new codecs and channels and configurations it is impossible to keep up as a consumer much less trying to figure out what will be the next great thing that everyone has to have, two years beforehand. The only constants are audio and video quality. Like the man said, "If you build it they will come". If a manufacturer is able to build high quality into a value laden package, they just have to hope that people recognize that combination and are willing to forego all the peripheral bells and whistles that don't matter. Even years after 5.1 and 7.1 systems were considered "normal" most content still relies on the codecs to make up the extra two channels. Creating channels out of thin air does not mean the system is better but that is what people think. Its the great American way of progress through misconception.

Not necessarily, especially if Outlaw foregoes upgrading the video processor which would not be a huge loss. I still think the other features I mentioned are necessities for a new flagship pre/pro to be introduced in 2012. I suspect the only one of those which might prove difficult would be the network connectivity, although I have no firsthand knowledge regarding such issues and stand to be corrected.

From your other posts, you appear to still favor a Model 998 essentially similar to the 978 but with a different room EQ solution, which could really only mean Trinnov. I think I've made my opinion clear on the likelihood of that ever happening.

I don't know that I favor it, I just don't see a different scenario being practical. Certainly the original design intent was for the Model 998 and Model 978 to be the same basic platform. Changing that now means more time, which means a delayed launch.

Outlaw should just build the 1078 receiver and scrap the 998.

You may be on the right track. The more I look at Trinnov (which I truly would love to have) the more I think that the technology does not exist to deliver this capability at a modest price point.

Now if someone would develop an application specific Trinnov processing chip... However you'd need some serious volume sales to justify the NRE costs of the silicon development.

I can honestly see Outlaw making the 978 capable of Audyssey dsx into 9.2 or 7.2 channels especially because they now state that it will support pro logic llz. I think one of the benefits of waiting for the 998 if developed is the implementation of 11.2 channels. I just have a feeling that jumping from a projected 7 channel system to an 11 channel system is not going to happen for the 978 but would be possible for the 998. I myself already have the 11 speakers necessary to implement the full benefits of dsx so I will definitely hold out till I find out the deal with the 998 or find that a new marantz pre/pro will have similar sound processing and 11 channels. Some people knock the benefit of adding these channels but I personally like the ability to turn it on or off depending on what source material I'm listening to. It is really exciting thinking of the potential sound quality that would be achieved with a 998 11 channel reciever with the saber DAC's. Of course this is all speculation and wishful thinking. I also think that Trinnov may be necessary for some, but those of us with correct speaker placement really don't need the benefit of 3d remapping as no one should with any type of dedicated or purpose built home theater room. I believe Audyssey has a much greater benefit to me than Trinnov. Perhaps they will introduce Trinnov into there 1198. I for one however would not like to pay for this feature in any pre/pro. Does anyone disagree? Maybe I don't really understand the full benefits of Trinnov.

If you like the uniqueness of Outlaw's products and respect what they are doing so well, I suggest that you show your appreciation and enjoyment by making it a point to purchase their products.