for me, the diamond 9 is a logical upgrade from the 8's and its not just a simple step upgrade and/or an upgrade to a newer model but a "jump", ang layo ng diamond 8 sa 9 (personally ha) in all possible aspect, its like coming from an entry level and going to mid level.
historically i had an 8.1, 8.3, 8.4 and a diamond 8 center, after a few other speakers in between (including ribbons) am now back to wharfes, a 9.6 and 9 cm. i dont think ill be changing speakers again, soon.