I think getting an SACD capable player is a great idea and the lower cost unit will definitely give you a taste of what this format can do. I started into SACD with the 777ES player and was amazed at how good SACD can sound - almost up there with vinyl. I then bought a low end Sony SACD player (CE775) for another system and yes, the SACD advantages where there as well, WAY better than conventional redbook on the same player. I've only heard SACD in 2 channel because thats all I'm interested in for music but I'll soon buy a DVD/SACD multi channel machine (probably the one you mentioned) for my HT rig. Great music format and if you can try it out for $240 in a decent DVD player, what's to loose?
Billfort