LOL just hearing back from the OP would be best at this point.
I think the OP brought up something that most of us probably don't realize, that is, the volume "limit" of 98/+18 is just the maximum that the volume control can at it to, but not always, as per Jon AA's Chris K quote about headroom/boost management.
It would definitely be great if the OP returns with an update. I have now done enough experiment to more or less (not 100%) conclude the following.
No effects on the volume limit:
1. Manual level adjustment
2. Source level adjustment
Have effects on the volume limit:
1. Limit setting
2. Amp assign (example: my 4400 would set a limit regardless if 11.1 is configured)
3. Input assign
4. DSP related, such as Audyssey on/off, sound modes (DTS Neural:X, Dolby surround, Stereo etc.)
Things the OP can try are:
First of all, try direct/pure direct just to make sure volume can go to 98, then do each, some or all the following:
- To compare the settings between his 5011 and 5011, he said his 5011 was fine.
- In input assign, De-select "analog" in the inputs he's using.
- Set amp assign to 5.1 (that's part of making the settings the same as his 5011)
May need to disconnect the inputs, to clear things up because the AVR might have remembered the input characteristics, or pulling the plug for 10 seconds may do that trick too.
Too bad the manuals don't mention any of the amp assign, input assign, and DSP effects on the volume limit.