Ben/Peter - Thanks for the update! I'm hungry for more news on the Atmos pre/pro. Can you share any more details on how it will differ from the 976 besides the obvious?

Where's the product page? Looking forward to the gory details!

Will the new Model 976 have user definable inputs?

So, I too have been eagerly awaiting the new processor.
Am ready to replace my Sunfire Grand Theater IV unit.

I viewed the pictures and read the text which Outlaw Ben posted.

Questions I'm interested in related to the 976 :

- Is RDS implemented for the FM tuner (no RDS logo on front panel) ?
- Is HD Radio implemented for the FM tuner (no HD Radio Logo on front panel) ?
- Will any of the analog in jacks be configurable for Phono input (none labeled as such) ?
- Will the Bluetooth module be included in the price (I see a large BT connector on rear) ?

- And will any of the above features be included on the later-to-be-released Object-Based Processor ?

I would expect that all inputs will be user defined as none of the inputs are labeled in the pictures.

Since it does not specifically label a phono input I would expect a phono pre-amp will be needed to feed one of the analog inputs.

I would also expect the Bluetooth module to be separate although they may include it.

The next gen processor was originally spec'd for HD radio not sure about RDS

Very excited about the news overall. This may be the year to upgrade! One question:

"As soon as production starts on the Model 976, our engineering teams will redouble their efforts on our Atmos/DTS-X processor. As mentioned, it is based on the same underlying platform as the Model 976, but utilizes two DSPs and additional DACs for a 7.2.4 channel configuration. It will add additional connectivity options and a few other features that many of you have asked for. Presently targeted to be priced under $1,500, it will be available later this year." - Outlaw Ben, 1/24/17

Peter or Ben, will this upcoming Atmos/DTS-X processor have a set of stereo balanced (XLR) inputs? I am wondering because I may be interested in the upcoming Oppo UDP-205, which probably has balanced stereo outputs, like the 105.

THANK YOU!

I'm looking forward to the Model 976 with the atmos 7.2.4. Does anyone know if the Model 976 (with atmos) will have the $100 loyalty discount? Also - can it be assumed that a Model 5000 amp will come bundled with the atmos version of the Model 976?

I plan on purchasing the 975 as I can just split the hdmi signal so the 975 can take care of the audio - and the tv can take care of the video. I don't see a point to the non-atmos 976 at the moment unless you like balanced inputs.

I would REALLY like to purchase the 976 ($800) if it can be hardware upgraded to 5.2.4 Atmos for less than $500!

Since Outlaw has always done combos with their processors and amps I would expect them to offer a combo which pairs the new processors with a seven channel amp such as the 7140. They will also probably offer a loyalty discount for previous owners of their older processors. They are already doing this for the new 976. Outlaw will not upgrade the 976 to Atmos. That would defeat the purpose of the new processor which is targeted to cost around $1500. The atmos/DTSx processor yet to be named will be a significant technology leap from the 976.

Many of us will not update our systems to Atmos/DTSx until there is significant acceptance of the technology and there is a larger selection of source material. Think 3D. Same goes for 4K unless we have an equipment failure. I love the newer tech but the industry needs to catch up to the tech and the cost needs to come down.

Peter or Ben, will the upcoming Atmos/DTS-X processor have a set of stereo balanced (XLR) inputs?

It would be a welcome surprise if it does. As far as I can tell from the various announcements and updates there is no mention of balanced inputs. I also have yet to find anything that says it may have a phono pre-amp on board.