Sony DVP-S9000ES vs DVP-NS999ES for 2-channel?


Hi all,
I am considering upgrading my Sony DVP-NC650V CD/SACD/DVD player to one of the Sony models mentioned above. I primarily use this machine for listening to SACD and CD discs in a 2-channel stereo system. I am interested in finding out if others have compared the Sony DVP-S9000ES and DVP-NS999ES for their performance playing back CDs and SACDs in 2-channel. If so, I would appreciate feedback so that I might make an informed decision between these two components. I am aware that the 9000ES does not have a good rep playing back CD-R, DVD-R, etc. I have an inexpensive DVD-A player to handle those discs. Again, I am mainly concerned with SACD and CD performance.

My equipment chain coming out of the Panamax Max 5300 line conditioner is as follows:

current/future silver disc player -> van den Hul D102 MK III interconnects -> Musical Fidelity X10-D tube stage (using an upgraded toroid power supply) -> vdH interconnects -> B&K PT3 Series II preamp (using Audioquest NRG-1 power cord)-> vdH interconnects -> B&K ST2140 stereo amp (140wpc,using ZuCable Mother power cord) -> vdH Teatrack biwire speaker cables -> Canton Ergo 92DC full range speakers.

I mostly listen to jazz (I love the 50 year-old reissues that are coming out on SACD) and, to a lesser degree, a variety of "rock", i.e. King Crimson, Led Zep, Who, Stones, Zappa, Neil Young (the latter 2 artists are the primary reasons I bought the DVD-A player).

Thanks for any help/insight.
Marc
audiophoole
I was in the same boat as well. Both Sonys don't fare well for Redbook playback.

My best suggestion is to get either one modded. I have mine sent to VSE for an upgrade. I opted for the DVP-S9000ES since at the time was discontinued at really good prices.

Here's the link for the Allen Wright mods: http://www.vacuumstate.com/user_reviews.htm
I agree with Mike....average players at best, un-modded, but really outstanding modded.

I have the 999ES and a friend has the 9000ES, both modded by Dan, Modwright. In my system, the Modwright 999ES bettered the highly regarded Audio Aero mkII DAC that I also owned for a while.
incredible; mine not moded SONY 9000ES in SACD mode in not able to rival Arcam Alpha6 (1996) player playing the some disc on CD layer, SONY is so hifi and so unmusical I just cannot stand it
You still could buy the a new Sony 9000es. Sony found 200 new units in Mexico and one of Sony Authorized dealer is selling it for $549