Sjh32, My only use for my Technics is as a Dvd-audio player so I only use it's 5.1 channel analog outputs. You can not use an outboard dac for dvd-audio with this player. My understanding from your post was that you were all set in the redbook and sacd department? This player will not output Dvd-audio through it's digital outputs but does make a pretty good transport for redbook if thats what your after. I bought mine new a few years back and it has been trouble free, I did use it as a video source the first couple of years I had it..it's picture quality is very good.
Dave
Dave