Arcam AV8 single ended vs Arcam AVP700 balanced?

I was wondering if anyone had experience with these two units. Is the sound of the AVP700 balanced as good or better than the AV8 single ended? Why does the new AVP700 have balanced inputs while the new AV9 does not? What is the benefit of paying the extra for the AV8 or AV9? All comments would be appreciated.