I know each has it's own unique sound . It just the 965 would be a lot less money . I never have gone the cheap route in the past and probably won't this time . It is just the temptation is there you know and I could use the extrat coin too upgrade my amps now instead of having to wait . You see the evil thought process here right YOU COULD HAVE IT ALL NOW ! Except I would be subing out the 990 for the 965 . Guess there is a price for everything .