Thanks to all,

I have read most of the user manuals for 561 / 565 / 568.2 / G68 / 861 (G68 & 861 - I wish!) and non seem to offer all the functions that the 518 has (Unless the 861 or G68 just carry out the 518 functions out without needing to trouble the user!) nor do they offer more than 1 optical in (G68 and 861 excepted)

As I have previously mentioned the 518 seems a natural choice as I can experiment with the effects it has on the various sources and gain some extra inputs in the process.

I suspect 518 availability is somewhat limited (unless you know otherwise) As it sounds like most who have one are somewhat taken with the device.

I am also seriously considering the Audio Authority 1177 (Thanks SMac770) in conjunction with the 518 but UK availability seems to be a problem and the shipping and import duty from the US nearly double the retail price.

The 562V2/3 was my original choice but they seem a little expensive as I am unlikely to use the additional analogue inputs they offer, but the 2 optical in's is enticing in my desire for a minimalist solution at the right price.

The surround sound processor option like the 562V2/3 may be a little steep for my current expenses but is a possibility depending on s/h prices. G68 seems ideal but �3650!!!

My Mac music server 'source' is a work in progress but I am sceptical about its DVD/video capabilities hence I'm not yet ready to dispense with Sky HD ,HDD PVR and DVD just yet, but i'm sure the Mac users here will correct me if i'm wrong - Thanks Andrew and 'kenliles'

Does anybody know of any objective tests which have been conducted regarding the properties of optical versus coaxial digital out as I have read many discussions about the 'isolating' properties that optical offers but would like to understand the physical properties of this choice

Thanks again for the informed discussion this forum offers

Cheers

Spencer

500CD MKII > 518 (V1.22) > DSP 5000 (V4.003) 24/96

MacBook Black > 518 (V1.22) > DSP 5000 (V4.003) 24/96