I just read your review and also a thread on avs forums. The consensus there is the 980 video scaling is "sharper" the 981 is "softer and more film like (whatever that means). I think I'd like sharper, especially with Plasma. What do you think?

..also, is there a real noticeable difference using the 7.1 analog outs with SACD..and if there is, is this because the decoder in the DVD player is better than than the Outlaw? I'm just wrestling with the cost of SEVEN MORE decent cables.