I had the same issues with the 970 with the addition of some strange noises when the 970 could not acquire the digital signal. I figured one day, this noise might break something else (tweeters perhaps). I decided to use a Denon 2808 as a preamp. The 970 is now in another room as a 2 channel preamp - no problems at all in this configuration. I had mixed thoughts doing this, as I really liked the 970.

Oddly enough, the 970 started out just fine, then the no audio problem became more frequent.

I will continue to use the 2808 until I something better comes along - preferably from Outlaw. Any pictures yet of the next gen pre/pro? I read over the SN brochure (electronic version) and that unit presents as very cool.