Actually (though I may be one of few) I use the 7.1 directs for several multi-channel analog formats including the analog of decoded dts CDs, redirecting to a 4-ch array, and multi-channel hard-drive material. So I hope Outlaw will continue the 7.1 analog in's.
Your use of these inputs is unique. Fortunately, I doubt we'll see anybody actually eliminate these inputs any time soon, as they provide a useful bit of flexibility.
While I'll not speculate or argue about whose analog section is better than whose, I will tell you fellow outlaws that not having a 997 (though I want one)is not a problem, since I am delighted with the audio from Oppo BDP83 analog outs into the 7.1 of my 990. Movies and SACD sound fabulous via analog.
The BDP-83 (and especially the BDP-83SE) is among the few players I have experience with that I consider to have an analog section that can match what is found in good surround processors. Others exist, but they tend to cost thousands of dollars.
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