I'm hoping the review turns out to be "true." The reviewer does mention that his previous encounter with Modwright 777 was not that impressive, and that 999 version is much better.
I've heard ModWright 777 absolute truth mod, and it sounded kind of like how you guys described the 999 at Phil's place. In fact, I have heard the Gryphon Mikado player the reviewer mentions, and I like it plenty already. But he says the ModWright is better!
If the latest 999 is anywhere close to that good, it might even pursuade me to buy it despite the fact I don't want to start buying SACD's.
Another quote from the review:
"As now configured, the ModWright/Sony not only tops all other digital reproduction I've heard to date, but all analog reproduction as well "
YOWZA!!