Very nice post AudioBear. Couldn't have said it better myself.

Jay, I have the hook up for you....
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5747855&&#post5747855

This post compares the AVM20 to the 990. Very similar in sonics to the AVM30.

My two cents....for $1k, you simply can't beat the value of the 990. Sure, the AVM30 may sound slightly better to the experienced audiophile, but is it worth an extra $2k? The fact the 990 is often compared to Anthem, Lexicon, Sunfire, etc. is proof enough for me that it is not a lousy performer. Add to this Outlaw's top notch tech support and the support of the people here and you have a clear winner. Do you want to throw a lot of money at something right now with these new formats on the horizon?