Sony DVP S9000 ES vs. Sony DVP NS900V

I am doing exactly what you are doing, using the 9000es for 2 channel SACD and as a transport for everything else. I enjoy the unit a lot and am not sure if I will upgrade it any time soon. Though I am unable to compare it to the NS900V, seeing as I have never used that unit in my system before, FWIW.

Gstang, I too have been wondering about the same thing. I am mainly interested in gaining CD/R, CD/RW and 5 channel SACD capability, but I don't want to sacrifice quality in any area, as my 9000ES is excellent. Maybe the lack of the "ES" designation is a hint?

It is good to hear that others are using the 9000ES as a SACD player and as a transport. Thanks for the response. Maybe someone will read this who can comment on the NS900V.

I also agree that the lack of ES designation may be a key. The NS900V also has what will be useless frills for most of us, like the built-in AC3 and DTS decoders. That's just fluff that did not get spent on improving circuit quality, etc.

Another question is whether SACD multi-channel discs will play SACD two channel, or does it play CD "quality" two channel audio?

I'm 99.9% sure that multi-channel SACD players also play 2 channel. Wish Sony would let people know if they're planning a replacement for the 9000ES that brings it up to date with no Genesis chip chroma problems, 5 channel SACD,CD-R, CD-RW and dare I say it... MP3 capability, or heaven forbid DVD-A as well! By the way, 5 channel SACD is something of a revelation when done properly. I have never heard a more realistic recreation of an interior space, such as with Chesky's Bucky Pizzarelli 5 channel SACD.

BMPNYC: Can you articulate the problem with the S9000ES that you refer to. I also am looking for a two channel SACD player with a Bel Canto 1.1 for Redbook CDs.