They went with DVI because at the time it was essentially compatible with the HDMI spec at the time and they felt that DVI was the better connector...which it is.

They couldn't possibly give you an HMDI 1.3 spec preamp when the 990 first came out.

And you have gotten good use out of the unit since you bought it, right?

If you want to upgrade, just sell it on ebay or Audiogon when the new one comes out. Most people don't need HDMI and will jump at the chance to get a quality piece like the 990 for a discount, even if it's used.