I had a RSP-1068 then bought a RSP-1069. The auio is much better (open, airy and transparent) on the RSP-1069 given the new DSP TI chip and Bur Brown DACs but the RSP-1098 DACs are still better although somewhat older. The RSP-1098 is still superior soundwise to both based on my experience.
The RSP-1069 is a HDMI v1.1 spec and cannot be brought to the 1.3 spec unless harware is changed. This is why you see many manufactueres holding off or if they have a HDMI capability it is modular in design as hardware must be changed to move from one version to the latest version.
The higher end SSP use v1.2 or 1.2 with only one expensive unit I am aware of using the v1.3 spec. Classe, for example, on their SSP-600 doesn't even support HDMI as I suspect they among others are waiting for the HDMI technology to be sorted out if you will.
I moved up to a Anthem D1 Statement that retails for $5000 but I paid half for a used one and it far exceeds any of te Rotel units for sound and has quasi-balanced outputs where all the Rotel SSPs have RCA outputs. The D1 had much superior DACs and the DSP chip, imo. They make the new D2 which is the same as the D1 but with HDMI v1.2 but it retails for $7000.
Personally, I am fine with high quality component equipment and cables. I run them directly to the TV including the DVD player with only the digital audio running to the SSP.
My advice would be to find the best SSP you can within your budget limitations and not focus on HDMI for now. All OEMs will release new or upgraded units or modules (for those that ar ebuilt this way). The technology is still evolviing and component still producing a very fine picture even in 1080p.
