Sony 9000ES needs 100-200 hours to break-in. After that it shows much superior midrange and bottom then Sony 777ES or SC-1, particularly piano (I am pianist by education) and voice! Cost, new around $1,100 while 777 cost is around $1,500. Second, kost important feature is SACD. This format, recorded or re-mastered correctly, is worlds away from CD sound, DVD-Audio and even best vinil. I experience emotions second only to live event. Obviously, hi-fidelity system helps. Third, it has DVD-Video. This allow you to listen all 24/96 two channel CDs, watch movie, if you like to watch... and Finally, this DVD with progressive scan (the first on the market?) will help you to retain its value and make easier to re-sell. Note, that two Dony 9000ES which was posted a few days ago (one is defenetly sold another I don't know) in VIDEO section 9not CD PLAYER Section). Of course the most important is musical experience. I ain't know any better (MaranzSACD is better$7.5k) I should sign as "SACD Addict" !!!
