Initial Impressions: Integra 8.3 DVD/SACD/DVD-A

My purpose for auditioning this piece was to acquire a progressive scan DVD player that had the possible bonus of SACD, and even DVD-A for my 2-channel system.
At the dealer's showroom we strictly auditioned the AUDIO performance of the machine. We drove it with a couple of nice AR monoblocks, an AR preamp, and some Vandersteen Model 5's. We compared this model with a Linn CD12 ($20,000).
Redbook CD: This model did not shame itself, even compared to the CD12. There was certainly more bottom-end depth and smoothness from the Linn, but the difference was not "vast" on this equipment.We listened to The Replacements "All Shook Down" on redbook vs redbook. On my home equipment (Cary 300 SEI,306/100,Triangle Celius)the difference is far more pronounced. The lower end is completely absent on the Integra. I hope break-in helps this. It does do vocals and mids impressively. I could live with this player if I did not know the quality of the Cary, but the Cary will have to stay.
SACD: On the dealer's setup, we auditioned the hybrid of "Beggar's Banquet". SACD on the Integra vs Redbook on the CD12. Everyone preferred the SACD version of the Integra. The mix is more enjoyable to begin with, and the player sounded great. My dealer commented: "If only Sony could do SACD this good". Against my home system: The Cary 306 redbook is superior to the Integra 8.3 SACD(period).
On the Hot Rocks hybrid, you can feel Jagger's breath on your neck during the opening of Ruby Tuesday" on the Cary redbook. This is completely absent on the Integra SACD layer.
DVD-A (only done at home):This must be the strong suit of the unit. This circuit was very enjoyable. I sampled Neil Young's "Harvest" DVD-A, and it presented itself impressively. Great clarity, and a decent wallop from the kick drum on "Old Man". On the "Crowded House" DVD-A, the music was exquisite, but the vocals sounded like they were 20 miles away. Be careful of your software choices with this format.
Caveats: The Integra units were fresh from their boxes. No burn-in whatsoever. The Integra 8.3 is only a $1200 retail priced piece. It was being compared to a $20,000 CD player, and a $5000 CD player.
Early conclusions: Does this unit belong in an audiophile system: If the next-gen (SACD/DVD-A)circuits are used, it will pass. The build quality is fecal. Absoultely Daewoo.
It is clearly a Home Theater piece, not an Audiophile piece. I got my hopes up after the dealer audition, but was slapped silly with reality at home. Not a bad thing, it's just reality.