Model 997 Price and Delivery Estimates

Working samples are on their way to us now, but as you might imagine, we need to put them through extensive internal testing, numerous agency certifications and licensor acceptance tests, and finally, external beta testing by your fellow Outlaws. At the same time, the Sherwood Newcastle model is currently being field-tested, and any required hardware modifications or software tweaks uncovered by that process will be incorporated in the Model 997. This parallel testing process will help assure that this product will be as bug-free as possible from the very first unit, even as both companies break new ground with the first consumer implementation of the Trinnov Optimizer.

The introduction date for the Model 997 will be determined once the initial production of the Sherwood Newcastle R-972 AV Receiver is completed. Delivery of the first Model 997’s will follow shortly thereafter. At the present time, our estimate for the ship date is close to the very end of this year or early in January 2009. Please understand that this is our best estimate based upon what we know today and, as with all new technology products, it is subject to change. We’ll keep you posted on this date as we move into late autumn, and we will open a reservation list when the release date becomes “hardened”.

As to the Model 997’s price, we are working on the final costs but, as previously announced, it will be about twice the current price of the Model 990, with an estimated “introductory price” of $1,399. Don’t forget, original Model 990 or Model 970 owners will receive a $200 discount from the Model 997’s price.

For those who missed the original announcement of the 997/998/978 processors string the above is a quote straight from the September 19 2008 announcement. Haunting isn't it?