Thanks for the response. Ironically, when I upgraded from my Outlaw 950 some 8 years ago It was Outlaw that suggested the Marantz SR5005 to use as a pre-amp and that's what I did (Outlaw was selling it). I agree that in principle part of the cost of the SR5015 is for the amp part while the Outlaw cost is all pre-amp.

A question I raised before involves video in that can one hdmi input (from a Tivo or blu ray player) go to two hdmi outputs (TV/Overhead projector). I asked Outlaw support and their answer was maybe. I had to buy the 976 to find out. I have just asked Marantz support the same question and I am still waiting for an answer,

The other issue involves 976 technology. It is getting old. Is there anything newer (990?) on the horizon. Decisions.

John