Thanks, You know if there is a North American equiv. I really do not know what it would be. I was using an older Pioneer 700 because I found one in silver, and I kinda have a thing for Pioneer silver. It started acting up which turned out to a dirty lazer lens but it got me started looking around for something that was more complimentary to all the SX stuff I like. I found this in Japan, all I have read says Japan and Europe and I think the UK were the only ones to get to enjoy them, never offered in North America. It works very well which is a good thing because it was only available in 90 and 91 if I remember right, I've had it for 3 years and as with most all Pioneer its been good.