Having tried a 970 the same time against a 990 and sending the 970 back, I would argue that the 990 is definately worth the extra dough. It is built like a tank, has many features the 970 does not and sounds absolutely wonderful with 2-channel. This comming from a guy that used to be 95% movies 5% music. I have not watched a movie in 5 or 6 weeks, but I have listened to music ala 990 almost every night. Be forewarned, you may end up like me...a 990 2-channel junkie!