Robert,
Most of the newer AVP/AVRs are capable of decoding all of the formats you desire. The downside so far is that there is not a lot of media out there with the newer formats available. I regret your loss of the 990. What happened to it?
I jumped ship to the Onkyo 886 and am very happy with it. Why would you spend big $$$ on an AVR when you already have a great amp. Most of the lower tier AVRs will not allow you to decouple their amps from the pre-amps. I know the higher end Denons have separate pre-outs but it is a waste and is usually used for a second room HT setup. Sounds like I am trying to talk you off the ledge doesn't it?
here's what I've discovered
I need/want the DTS MA and DD HD processing along with HDMI switching and video up converting.
If there was a preamp for $1200 I'd buy it. I have 4 Naim 135 mono amps, 3 Audiolab Mono amps and the Outlaw 7 channel 9700. I don't need amplification.
I have no brand affinity to Denon, Onkyo or anyone else
Rob
PS - Talking of ships, it's sad that this forum has become a "We're on the Titanic, where should I go discussion"