I have a 990 that will loose all sound in a TV program or even better, will just output the low end. What does it is the detection of a signal change.

To clear it up, I switch Dolby modes, and all is back to normal. It's not just the 997...

Try this as well.

Only turn on the Pre-Amp and Amp.
Put the preamp on an input that does not show the SB speakers as being active. No components turned on.
Turn the volume to -75 then -76.
Turn the Pre-Amp to an input that shows the SB as being active.
Turn the volume to -75 then -76.

Do you hear a ticking coming through the speakers?

I can unplug EVERYTHING from the Preamp and use the jack in the front and still hear a tick when I go from -75 to -76 in the example above.

I've not run into that with my 990. That might justify a call to Outlaw. What firmware version do you have installed.

I have both a 990 and a 970. I've had the 990 longer and have had absolutely no issues with it. It is truly a fantastic piece of equipment that does exactly as advertised. However, the same cannot be said of the 970, unless you count "audio dropouts and complete freeze-ups" to be exactly as advertised. If you are thinking of getting a 970, make extra room for the larger 990 and spend the little extra money. You will be much more satisfied.

I think I agree with you. And I just got my 970 B-stock 3-4 weeks ago. The good news is that I just got it as an interim until the 997 arrives. I still get the coupon and maybe I can find a friend who needs an upgrade.

Sadly, with the issues I have already had, I don't know if I want to give it to a good friend

Just to wrap up this thread - I worked with the Outlaws to try and resolve my issues with the 970, and although it took a few attempts and more than one trip back to the Outlaw homeland (mine was a particularly recalcitrant unit, apparently), in the end everything worked out to my complete satisfaction.

My wife - who was the original inspiration for this thread - had sunk for a while to the point of demanding that we go to the local electronics super-store to buy a $300 AV receiver because "at least it will work, right?" Luckily, we were spared that possible conclusion and instead we're all still happily living the Outlaw life.

Many thanks to Scott and the tech guys at Outlaw.