yep, this DV-S9 definitely IS the the japanese version of the DV-09, right down to a less obtusely colored version of that damned DTS label:

John

Great write up and pics.

thank you.
the DV-09 is so satisfying to me,
that i feel that it is the only DVD player i'll ever need, for as long as i can keep it running, and as long as the media is playable.

PIONEER still has it's Laser Pick-Up available,
and i'll eventually get me at least one spare.
at $250.00 per pick-up, they are not cheap.
still, that's $250 i'd much rather sink into this superlative player,
than into any newer model.
i have the service manual coming my way,
so i should be able to re-lube the mechanics (preventative maintenance)
and replace the pick-up when necessary, all by myself...