I have had the same experience with Pioneer SQ decoders. I would play them for friends who didn't really understand quad and they would look around wondering what they were supposed to hear. A basic Sony unit would be better in my opinion, even an SQD-1000. Before I got my Tate, I used an SQD-2010 for many years and I like it a lot as well. If you can find one of them, or a 2020 that is likely the best bang for the buck out there ... Lafayette SQ-W notwithstanding, but they are quite rare ... almost never seen here in Canada. I also had a Radio Shack SQ-II that I sold on eBay for about $20 and it was very good as well ... certainly for the money they usually sell for. Good luck, Mike.