My experience is the same as yours, Stewie. I upgraded to a 7500 (from a 7125)and to me, there is more detail, warmth, and better soundstage. I also am using balanced cables between it and my 990. Also, they drive my fronts, Apogee Centaur Minors (hybrid ribbon), a lot better. Those findings are with 2 channel Analog (CD) bypass mode. HT is definitely nicer also.
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Anthem MRX-500/ Outlaw 7500, Paradigm Studio 100's Fronts, Paradigm CC-590 Center, Phase Technology Dipole rears , Martin Logan Dynamo sub, Oppo BDP-103, DIRECTV H22-200 DVR HD receiver, Samsung PN60E8000 3D Plasma 60"
2nd System
B&K ST 202 Amp, Outlaw 990, Rotel RCD 1072CD, Yaqin CD 1 Tube Buffer, Apogee Centaur Minors, Phase Technology Model 10 Sub, Rotel RP-855 turntable, Panasonic DMP-BD30, DIRECTV H21-700 DVR HD receiver, Free Agent Home Theatre+, Vizio 40" LED