Another thing to consider with the comparisons is that the newer 989/2809 receiver has 4 HDMI inputs as opposed to 2 inputs on the 988/2808. The list price is the same for both although real world pricing is probably different.

I have the 889/2309 in my upstairs system and it also has 4 HDMI inputs. What it doesn't have however is any pre-out connections.

2xM80 VP180 2xQS8 2xM3 HSU STF3 LG 60PS11 Denon 3808 ATI 1506 LCR 2xATI 1502 Oppo BDP-83