Howdy! I'd like to ask you all a couple of questions about the Sony STRDB930, as it's at the top of my list to buy...

1. Two-channel music, or AFD mode (the one with the bass control)... how does it sound? Bright, dull, alive, neutral? How does it compare with say the Sony ES range... I'll be doing 50/50 HT vs. Music with it, so I need it to be acceptable...

2. Does it handle a 24-bit/96khz signal? Do you notice any difference with it, i.e. it has a 24-bit DAC?

3. Do you think it might be worth it to go for the Sony DA50ES (Sony Australia's current top of the line, the one with 5.1 inputs)? Just for the 2 channel music if the 930 is bad at it? The warranty etc isn't a worry, I don't mind that... I just need acceptable CD performance...

It would be nice if the 930 was any good at the things I've said, it'll save me a lot of money, being a poor student and all, but if the ES is noticebly better, then I guess I'll have to save up for a few more months!

Thanks a lot guys,
Mal

Are you down under? If so, have you (can you) listen to Marantz?? Literally just bought the SR-8000 and forked over the extra bucks over the SR-7000 but BOTH are excellent receivers for both HT and music. The 7000 is mid 700's and the 8000 is about 3-4 hundred more depending on if they will deal.

Both are tough to find around me but I managed to find an SR-8000 today as well a speaker setup that blew me away.

If you get a chance to hear em before you buy, you may change your mind