Sony has a new DVD player to be released soon, the DVP-9000ES will have a 12 bit video DAC, progressive scan, AND.... SACD for under $1500. I wouldn't mind DVD-A capability (even if inferior to SACD), if only for the eventual availability of more titles in a high resolution format, but unless you are willing to spend $5000, you can't have it yet. I believe there is a Pioneer multi-format machine available in Japan and soon to be here. If the Sony player has video quality at least the equal of Pioneers' new DV-37 then I will be very, very happy to gain a SACD player for little more than a good DVD player costs. I have spoken with the head of DCS sales in America, and he said that the SACD format is based on the same ring technology as their Elgar. I am looking forward to having that level of quality at 10% of the price my friends have paid for their DCS gear. I am not saying their investment was not wise. The upsampling ability of the DCD Delios and Purcell are great, and I don't expect Sony to do anything more than an adequate job in the "redbook" CD section of thier DVD player, but I would sure like to hear my system with the best possible input. That would help to make the effort that I have made to achieve the best system within my means seem more sensible and even more rewarding.
