I was given the ok from my wife to purchase the 9.8. I opted to try the 990 first. After unpacking the 990 and listening to it, I could not send it back and spend an additional $700.00.
I never listened to the 9.8, but the audio qualities of the 990 and it's build quality were more than I've experienced in my 52 years.
I know I'm probaly missing something!

KJ
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Outlaw 990 AVP,Outlaw 770 Amp,Infinity Beta 50 F L-R,Infinity Beta 360 C,Infinity IL10 S L-R,Velodyne CT-150 SW, Denon 2910 MDP, Pioneer PD-F908 CD