I am inclined to agree Chewbacca. Maybe wishful thinking. James has mentioned possibly developing new hardware and working with a software company dedicated to the firmware. I was just wondering if a modular approach might work and be cost effective at different option/price points. For example start with a base processor unit, make analogue inputs an optional module, HDMI an optional module, all other digital inputs an optional module, streaming an optional module, then add balanced outputs with variable options (3, 5, 7, ? channels). A stealth version with HDMI and 3 channels of balanced outputs would work for me. Apple TV 4K to Processor via HDMI input, HDMI video pass through to 4K TV, 3 balanced outputs to 3 Bryston PowerPac 300 amps, to 3 LCR speakers of choice. Maybe build on that with other optional modules later. All of these new pre/pros now moving to 12+ channels are a major waste for me. Al