I have a Rotel 985 ($2K list). All standard analog inputs convert the signal to 24/48 digital, process the signal, and then convert back to analog. However, the 5.1 input stays analog. Comparing the two, the 5.1 is cleaner, more defined, and extended. Using the 5.1 input, the volume contral still works, but I lose everything else (sub-out, bass/trebble control, DD, DTS, DPL, DSP modes, bass management, and center channel and rear speakers. It's just stereo. I have a two channel S9000ES.
BTW, analog by-pass (the 5.1 inputs) slightly improve the CD sound as well, but not to the same extent as SACD.
I suspect that your unit's digital performance is superior to the Rotel, and you won't experience as great a difference. Through the normal inputs, SACD was still clearly superior to CD. Buy the SACD with your current equipment. Still, down the road, you should be looking for a unit which has analog bypass option.
BTW, analog by-pass (the 5.1 inputs) slightly improve the CD sound as well, but not to the same extent as SACD.
I suspect that your unit's digital performance is superior to the Rotel, and you won't experience as great a difference. Through the normal inputs, SACD was still clearly superior to CD. Buy the SACD with your current equipment. Still, down the road, you should be looking for a unit which has analog bypass option.