I also notice that I get the 'static cling pop' when I am doing channel calibration. The white noise goes from one speaker to the next with a little pop to send it off. And for some strange reason, sometimes when I touch my cd player I get a little shock-like static electricity. Not always but that is something that I definitely took notice of. Again, never had this with the Onkyo.
If the replacement 950 does not fare any better, I am afraid I will have to say adieu for now and get another pre/pro. Any suggestions for one that will match with my 7100 so I can begin researching? Just in case