i have a sony es preamp and besides the remote sucking as bad as it does,the sound is awesome and it is built very well.i would say take full advantage of his connection and go with something in the es line.es and run of the mill sony are two different leagues. also, if he does go that way,check out the es777 400 disc dvd sacd player to go with it.(both silver aluminum faced)...with a substantial discount,buy as much as you can!!.....ron