Is DVD-A still-born?

Yes, "all digital" systems are on the way. And I agree have the potential to significantly lower costs and improve sound.

About 20 audio manufacturers (mainly from Japan) have developed a consortium to research DSD/SACD all digital systems. If it's going to be all digital, might as well use the best currently available (DSD/SACD).

But there will always be a highend, as long as someone is willing to pay the price.

BTW times have really changed. In the 1960's, highend was a Marantz receiver or power amp feeding into $300 AR-3a speakers with a $100 AR turntable.

Now, even a $3,000 receiver with $2,000 speakers and a $1,000 CD player is not considered highend by some.

Elizabeth,
Ideally I would like to be in your position and have a player for all the formats.
Maybe if I win the lottery or stop buying so many CD's.
I don't know if you read the posting from Resolution Audio but they seem pretty confused about the digital future.
You could well be right in your analysis but will the people who buy the new players really be interested in superior audio?
I think the software is moving too slowly,I really do and when CD was introduced it was the sole digital format which needed a dedicated player-now it's potentially a format war,this is a big difference,also there are very few new records being released on the formats,this is crucial.
I know it's early days for both new formats but I think it's a really different situation from when CD was introduced and I fear as well that the actual DVD-A players are not being introduced at the rate to compete with normal DVD players ,remember DVD (movies) is the fastest selling new format ever...time's running out.....

Ben

Elizabeth I am envious of your selection of formats,seems you've done it at a price that you will not lose out on.
Here in the UK prices on hi-fi gear is just that bit more expensive although I may well follow your lead and go for a Sony SACD or equivalent on my next upgrade.

Thanks,
Ben