Technology is not something you need to avoid, just have a good friend or neighbor help you out. Chances are the firmware update might have fixed your issue.

Plus, the firmware is either going to work or it doesn't. I don't think you could brick (break it) the player by trying. It's good to learn this stuff and then you will realize it was worth it and how easy it really is. Then you can be the 'techie' of the family :)

Apparently this player is not going to be released in Europe. Anyone here who can recommend a player in the same price range as the 983 with similar qualities? This seems to be THE player to own if you want great upscaling and PQ, at least for this price range.

Any help would be appreciated as my old dvd-player is broken (panny DVD-S52) and I need my daily fix of movies :p

Apparently this player is not going to be released in Europe. Anyone here who can recommend a player in the same price range as the 983 with similar qualities? This seems to be THE player to own if you want great upscaling and PQ, at least for this price range.

Any help would be appreciated as my old dvd-player is broken (panny DVD-S52) and I need my daily fix of movies :p

I could be wrong, but I think you can purchase this and have it sent to you (maybe through a retailer). I think someone in the forum mentioned buying it and having it shipped to them Italy?

I could be wrong, but I think you can purchase this and have it sent to you (maybe through a retailer). I think someone in the forum mentioned buying it and having it shipped to them Italy?


Yeah, that's one option I guess. I'm not sure what the total price would be though, with shipping and all that (and the danger of the packet getting abused :)). Also, I'm not sure how the warranty would work. Perhaps Oppo Europe can handle that even if a product is ordered from the US?

Thanks for the answer though, I will consider it.

Since I have a feeling it will get to the right people, I'd like to suggest a feature request here....

Would it be possible to set a default zoom mode? The underscan option is nice (my TV overscans 3-5%), but every time you stop the DVD or insert a new one you have to change the zoom again. Now its not THAT big a deal, but it might be nice to have a place where you can just set underscan=on and forget about it.

If there was a feature like that, it should be in the "Setup" menu. Less settings to cycle through if you do choose to use a zoom mode. ;)

I sent an email to Oppo Tech Service today regarding an issue I experienced. I had a response in 10 minutes.

....

....


When was the last time you had service like that?

I was then walked through the solution over a series of several emails over the next hour with the same rapid response.

What a company!

I find it interesting you say the modded player is expensive. I still want to buy the player and without the upgrades it'll cost $400.00, adding the extras will cost $750.00 more. Now I'm thinking compared to the cost of much of the equipment I see in a large number of members H/T systems this is a bargain low cost entry level high end player. In fact I think my whole system is basically entry level high end. I see others with amps costing 5 or 6 thousand, speakers costing 10-20 thousand a pair, pre-processors at 5 thousand, and the above figures go all the way up to insanity. So I ask why is there so much talk about this is too cheap, that is too expensive considering the huge sums many dedicated members spend on their gear?

Trying to get everything at the absolute rock bottom price or worrying about spending money on a piece you think is great but your still POd because you have to pay for a function you don't need is as crazy as spending $5000.00 on speaker wire. Eventually you can find youself listening to the equipment not the music. I guess I'm saying everone should leave out comments about how people spend their money. I guarantee you there are members here complaining no dvd player is worth more than $100.00 but these same people spend $5000.00 a year or more on liquor, cigarettes and drugs!

If you told me this player is $3000, i would cringe and say its overpriced or then point at the arcam fmj-dv139 lol .The limitation that i immediately see here is that most people are buying it for its video processing and its video capabilities. I on the other hand bought it for its "universal" ability to play all non hd video formats and all audio formats. I think this universal player is very much worth modding especially considering since this player has already been touted as the next best thing to a $3000 cd player(that is quite a compliment for a company that has been mainly known for their video performance). I applaud nuforce for the tweaking of this player's audio circuitry. How bout the 983 with a new akm 32bit DAC?:cool:

I agree, great customer service. I called today and they emailed the beta firmware to address the dropouts. It supposedly eases the tolerances of the HDMI spec to enable better playback for those that may be having issues.

I tested it out with the movie I had problems with last night(American Gangster) and it definately improved playback. I only thought I heard one or two very brief dropouts of the audio. I then tried Atonement and again only one or two possible very brief dropouts. I did however have a problem at about 1:16 when the player froze. I could hear the transport cycling but it required the disc to be ejected and restarted to view past that point. No problems the second time. It may just have been a problem with the disc but it seems I have some more testing to do.

It's good to know that should I need to get another player that the people at Oppo are more than willing to send me a replacement should it be required. They in fact offered to send out a replacement before I even asked about the beta firmware.

I am on the notify when availble list at oppo cause i wanted one of these. How wide spread is this problem with hdmi handshake issues and dvd playback malfunctions? I had a 981 before and never once had playback issues but an occasional handshake issue.

I am on the notify when availble list at oppo cause i wanted one of these. How wide spread is this problem with hdmi handshake issues and dvd playback malfunctions? I had a 981 before and never once had playback issues but an occasional handshake issue.

LOL... HDMI handshake issues are prominant throughout the consumer electronics industry. Unlike other companies though, Oppo will be sure to work it out. There is no doubt in my mind that Oppo will have it all worked out soon. I would not give up your reservation to own a 983 just from worrying about a potential problem. You already know that Oppo has great products and great service, so go IN knowing that as a consumer, you WILL be taken care of. :)

How widespread. If you look at the number of posts about the problems, there are only 4 unique posters with problems. One poster had an issue with 1080i going into a device which turns HDMI to component (Digital to Analog) and is not technically supported.

One user had issues with his Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH. This was fixed through a quick firmware turn around.

Another two users had issues related to video dropouts. One gave up (did not want a replacement) and the other found his cable to be defective.

So our of the 4, two are real problems, 2 are not.

There have been other video/audio dropout reports, but who knows how many of these people have real issues, or just need to change a couple of cables or software solutions.

Yeah, that's one option I guess. I'm not sure what the total price would be though, with shipping and all that (and the danger of the packet getting abused :)). Also, I'm not sure how the warranty would work. Perhaps Oppo Europe can handle that even if a product is ordered from the US?
I bought one from oppodigital.com shipped to Italy for a total amount of 350€ custom clearing included. Warranty could be a problem, for you've to ship back to them in case of defective unit, that risk must be taken into account. It seems that 983 will not be distributed in Europe.

I am on the notify when availble list at oppo cause i wanted one of these. How wide spread is this problem with hdmi handshake issues and dvd playback malfunctions? I had a 981 before and never once had playback issues but an occasional handshake issue. People are quick to post when they have a problem, but few will bother to post when everything is working perfectly. I (and many others) have had nothing but A/V nirvana with the 983. I feed a Sony 1080p LCD direct, or through an OPPO HM-31 HDMI switch, with no dropouts of any kind. Same for my Samsung DLP.

Remember too, that HDMI handshaking issues are pretty widespread across the industry, and beta testing cannot cover every possible combination of equipment. Nevertheless, if any such issues can be positively traced to the player, OPPO takes them very seriously, and fixes them... or your money back. This has been true of all their players.

Your 981 never had any playback issues, and neither has mine. The 983 is just as reliable, and beats the 981 handsomely in the audio and video department.

Gary

If you told me this player is $3000, i would cringe and say its overpriced or then point at the arcam fmj-dv139 lol .The limitation that i immediately see here is that most people are buying it for its video processing and its video capabilities. I on the other hand bought it for its "universal" ability to play all non hd video formats and all audio formats. I think this universal player is very much worth modding especially considering since this player has already been touted as the next best thing to a $3000 cd player(that is quite a compliment for a company that has been mainly known for their video performance). I applaud nuforce for the tweaking of this player's audio circuitry. How bout the 983 with a new akm 32bit DAC?:cool:

Well not only it is a great video player, its an amazing audio player that is so under rated. Been playing on it for almost a week and its sounding even better now.

People are quick to post when they have a problem, but few will bother to post when everything is working perfectly. I (and many others) have had nothing but A/V nirvana with the 983. I feed a Sony 1080p LCD direct, or through an OPPO HM-31 HDMI switch, with no dropouts of any kind. Same for my Samsung DLP.

Remember too, that HDMI handshaking issues are pretty widespread across the industry, and beta testing cannot cover every possible combination of equipment. Nevertheless, if any such issues can be positively traced to the player, OPPO takes them very seriously, and fixes them... or your money back. This has been true of all their players.

Your 981 never had any playback issues, and neither has mine. The 983 is just as reliable, and beats the 981 handsomely in the audio and video department.

Gary

All true here. No HDMI problems here with my 983. I just noticed a reference to problems playing Atonement. Not here. I played it Saturday night, then played some of the Special Features - Deleted Scenes, Bringing the Past to Life, From Novel to Screen - and all played without a hitch. (Obviously I liked the film.)

I hope folks are closely examining these problem DVDs for flaws. I once bought a brand new DVD in the keep case, plastic wrap, etc., that exhibited a consistent hiccup at a certain point. When I looked at the surface of the disc, it appeared perfect. A mirror finish. It was only when I really examined it closely that I found a flaw in the substrate. I exchanged it for a replacement which played perfectly.

Dana

I bought one from oppodigital.com shipped to Italy for a total amount of 350€ custom clearing included. Warranty could be a problem, for you've to ship back to them in case of defective unit, that risk must be taken into account. It seems that 983 will not be distributed in Europe.

Thanks for the info. 350€ would equal about US$526.

Yeah, I mailed oppo and got a response very fast. I asked if the 983 had a planned release date for Europe, and they told me:

"OPPO.SE, who handles European distribution, is not going to carry the DV-983H, as they are putting all of their resources into the production of a Blu-Ray player."

And from what I gather the blu-ray player is not going to be released any time soon, so that wont be worth waiting for.

If your error is caused by a bad re-synchronization of the audio signal, then your error can be resolved through firmware. On the Onkyo 803 it would not synch at all to a 1080p/60Hz signal. With the new firmware, it syncs 50% of the time, and can be forced to resync by changing inputs on the receiver away from and back to the DV-983H input.

It doesn't hurt to try this firmware on your player, especially if it resolves your error.

If the rep had not used the final firmware for the player, then they are quoting old information. For much of the pre-production Beta Testing the Audio button acted as a session only toggle (much like the P/N button changes your video output for that power cycle).

With the final firmware release, this WILL change the General Setup. This is due to OPPO using the Audio button as a means of changing the default settings for users who are using the DV-983H without a display.

You likely misheard the rep. The delay for the first track with HDMI will always be 2.0 Seconds (this has been true for all of the OPPO HDMI products). There is no inherent 5 seconds delay for this handshaking.

OK, the latest firmware reduces the SACD playback lag time to 2 seconds. But when I play a SACD after a DVD, the 983 still hangs (no sound, the disc is spinning) and the “Ana(logue)” indicator on the receiver will light (strange). I’ll then have to power off/on the player to resume playback. Changing to TV on the reciever (938 for sound only) also causes a long disruption. With PS3, the interruption lasts only 2-3 seconds tops.

The new firmware causes one new issue, the SACD will now stutter every 2-3 minutes if 1080p/60 is set. I didn’t have this problem before. Playing at 1080i/60 seems to eliminate the problem, but then I’ll have to change the setting back to 1080p/60 to play a DVD.

The 2-second loss with CDs using HDMI isn’t a big deal for me since I probably won't play CDs on this machine, but I think OPPO should disclose this info.

...
The 2-second loss with CDs using HDMI isn’t a big deal for me since I probably won't play CDs on this machine, but I think OPPO should disclose this info.

Well, I'd like to disclose that I don't have any delay - none - when playing CDs on my 983 using HDMI through my Panny XR700 HDMI 2:1 switching AVR. This receiver passes through video as received to my display. No upconversion.

Is that a clue here? Maybe the delay is related to folks connecting their 983 via HDMI to upconverting receivers?

Dana

OK, the latest firmware reduces the SACD playback lag time to 2 seconds. But when I play a SACD after a DVD, the 983 still hangs (no sound, the disc is spinning) and the “Ana(logue)” indicator on the receiver will light (strange).

If your Denon is anything like the Onkyo 805, this will cause issues. You should not have to turn Off the player. Simply change inputs away from the DVD player then back to the DVD player. 9/10 this will resolve proper audio again.

This is due to an error with some receivers which have a problem properly handshaking 44.1Khz and its derivatives (which includes SACD->DSD 88.2KHz audio).

If your Denon is anything like the Onkyo 805, this will cause issues. You should not have to turn Off the player. Simply change inputs away from the DVD player then back to the DVD player. 9/10 this will resolve proper audio again.

This is due to an error with some receivers which have a problem properly handshaking 44.1Khz and its derivatives (which includes SACD->DSD 88.2KHz audio).

Just out of curiosity, have you forwarded any of the problems with the 805 to Onkyo?

OPPO has this Onkyo model in house; I have not used it recently. The "Beta Overseer" keeps me updated on all compatibility problems and solutions so I can help the forum when they occur.

For this model switching the inputs away and then back to the DV-983H should resolve the audio handshaking errors.

If your Denon is anything like the Onkyo 805, this will cause issues. You should not have to turn Off the player. Simply change inputs away from the DVD player then back to the DVD player. 9/10 this will resolve proper audio again.

This is due to an error with some receivers which have a problem properly handshaking 44.1Khz and its derivatives (which includes SACD->DSD 88.2KHz audio).

Oppo is investigating and working on a fix and I am waiting patiently for it.

For 400 clams, the 983 is a very good value. It beats the video performance of my old Denon 5900 (then a 2-k machine), mostly because of the lack of macroblocking. Sound wise the two machines are very similar although I still think the 5900 has a very slight edge on CDs. However, the 5900 refuses to play quite a few of my SACDs and DVDAs. That's why I bought the 983.

OPPO has this Onkyo model in house; I have not used it recently. The "Beta Overseer" keeps me updated on all compatibility problems and solutions so I can help the forum when they occur.

For this model switching the inputs away and then back to the DV-983H should resolve the audio handshaking errors.

I have an Onkyo SR-805 at my house and would like to purchase the DV-983H, because of its excellent reviews. However, it seems that other members had problems with this receiver or other upconverting AVR's. Unfortunately, I am not sure what you meant by "switching the inputs away and then back to the DV-983H". Could you explain this a little bit more in detail.
Tahnk you.

Is there any difference in DVD audio quality on the 983 with HDMI vs digital optical?

Is there any difference in DVD audio quality on the 983 with HDMI vs digital optical?Hmmm. You cannot get discrete, lossless multichannel on optical.

Is there any difference in DVD audio quality on the 983 with HDMI vs digital optical? Are you asking about DVD audio quality, or DVD-A audio quality? I think Kal is refering to DVD-A.

Gary

Are you asking about DVD audio quality, or DVD-A audio quality? I think Kal is refering to DVD-A.

Gary

I was asking about regular DVD quality - movies. I don't want to run HDMI with the 983 through my receiver because otherwise it has to share the same picture settings as my Panasonic BD30 (which I presume will be slightly different for the 983. If they're not, then I'll just use HDMI). I'm going to run the 983 directly to my display (in a different HDMI input) using digital optical to the receiver.

I have an Onkyo SR-805 at my house and would like to purchase the DV-983H, because of its excellent reviews. However, it seems that other members had problems with this receiver or other upconverting AVR's

All comments are about the SR-803, not the SR-805.

I was asking about regular DVD quality - movies. I don't want to run HDMI with the 983 through my receiver because otherwise it has to share the same picture settings as my Panasonic BD30 (which I presume will be slightly different for the 983. If they're not, then I'll just use HDMI). I'm going to run the 983 directly to my display (in a different HDMI input) using digital optical to the receiver.

Not from what I have seen - I set mine up both ways to check and didnt notice a difference with the DVD's I listened to. I currently have it set up with HDMI to the Plasma and optical to my receiver. Sounds great!

The only issue would be if you were going to listen to SACD or DVD Audio - wont work thru optical, but that is not your concern anyway.

I don't want to run HDMI with the 983 through my receiver because otherwise it has to share the same picture settings as my Panasonic BD30 (which I presume will be slightly different for the 983.

FWIW, I'm running a BD30 & the 983 via HDMI through my AVR to a calibrated Sharp Z-20000 pj, and the picture settings are almost identical for the two. (+ or - only 1 step on an adjustment range of + or - 30, or 60 steps.) Both players are amazingly accurate as shipped!

just asked in a new thread on visual source quality comparison, but relevant to this threat:

can something like the new Oppo 983 produce a picture on a 1080p HDTV that looks as good as a Bluray on a 720p display? [I do understand that the Oppo 983's ordinary DVD cannot compete with Bluray on a 1080p display.]

Hell no. SD doesn't come close to HD.

Hell no. SD doesn't come close to HD.But close enough for most viewers especially when you are setting 10 - 12 feet away from a nice 60" 1080P display. ;)

Most people just want their television shows, music video's, or movies that only come on the ten of thousands of SD-DVD's available to look great on their large displays and in that regards the Oppo 983H is amazing!

But close enough for most viewers especially when you are setting 10 - 12 feet away from a nice 60" 1080P display. ;)



I haven't seen the 983 yet, but we'll have to agree to disagree on that one. :) I sit 9.5' from my 1080p 60" set and even with the XA2 Reon, there was no comparision between most of the SD DVD and BD/HD DVD versions -- even to some non videophile people I had over. Of course, at something like 12' the difference will not be quite as striking. I think it also depends on the PQ of the movie (smaller difference between a title like Terminator 2 compared to King Kong). The 983 does sound like a great DVD player though!

FWIW, I'm running a BD30 & the 983 via HDMI through my AVR to a calibrated Sharp Z-20000 pj, and the picture settings are almost identical for the two. (+ or - only 1 step on an adjustment range of + or - 30, or 60 steps.) Both players are amazingly accurate as shipped!

Good to hear. It will be interesting to compare.

there are other threads for sdm/hdm comparison/bickering.
not here, please.
it gets old.
fast.

just asked in a new thread on visual source quality comparison, but relevant to this threat:

can something like the new Oppo 983 produce a picture on a 1080p HDTV that looks as good as a Bluray on a 720p display? [I do understand that the Oppo 983's ordinary DVD cannot compete with Bluray on a 1080p display.]

Well you cant compare it to HD but on some DVD's i tested it gave me near HD like pictures on my 50" plasma :)

Well you cant compare it to HD but on some DVD's i tested it gave me near HD like pictures on my 50" plasma :)

On my setup, DieHard Blu-ray and 5thElement-Superbit, look very close to the same picture quality. It's hard to tell without doing side-by-side. Heck, 5thElement might even look better.
That's right, I said it... :D.

just asked in a new thread on visual source quality comparison, but relevant to this threat:

can something like the new Oppo 983 produce a picture on a 1080p HDTV that looks as good as a Bluray on a 720p display? [I do understand that the Oppo 983's ordinary DVD cannot compete with Bluray on a 1080p display.]

I am afraid that the answer depends so much on the transfer quality that the question makes no sense.

:confused:

oh well.:eek:
:D

Well first i would like to thank those that replied to me earlier about the small amount of problems and making this a must buy. The next question is a curiosity question that wont affect my purchase but would be nice to know. If you hook up an external HD with Wma music on it does this player work well as "music" server or is it hard to navigate through tons of music ect? Thanks.

Hard to navigate and current ordering is not in an alphabetical/numerical order. It is find for a small thumb drive, but not for mass storage use.

If you hook up an external HD with Wma music on it does this player work well as "music" server or is it hard to navigate through tons of music It works really well for me, because I like to use the "Shuffle" feature. It plays my 700 tracks for more than 50 hours without repeats (that's over FOUR 12-hour days!) I like the anticipation of what song will come next, and the skip buttons work well without disrupting the shuffle feature.

Gary

Hello, Guys,

I clocked the tray being ejected from a standby status at 9-10 seconds. The drive also makes kind of a rumbling sound when certain seeking operations are performed (like navigating to the root menu). While running, it is silent and the image great. However, are the timing and the reported sounds normal, or I am "blessed" with a more sluggish unit?

OK, the latest firmware reduces the SACD playback lag time to 2 seconds. But when I play a SACD after a DVD, the 983 still hangs (no sound, the disc is spinning) and the “Ana(logue)” indicator on the receiver will light (strange). I’ll then have to power off/on the player to resume playback. Changing to TV on the reciever (938 for sound only) also causes a long disruption. With PS3, the interruption lasts only 2-3 seconds tops.

The new firmware causes one new issue, the SACD will now stutter every 2-3 minutes if 1080p/60 is set. I didn’t have this problem before. Playing at 1080i/60 seems to eliminate the problem, but then I’ll have to change the setting back to 1080p/60 to play a DVD.

The 2-second loss with CDs using HDMI isn’t a big deal for me since I probably won't play CDs on this machine, but I think OPPO should disclose this info.

I discussed the delay issue with an audio/video dealer one time. He said that any universal player would experience it at the start. The reason is that the little computer inside needs time to analyze, determining which software is in use. It happens to $300 player to $3,000 player.

However, are the timing and the reported sounds normal, or I am "blessed" with a more sluggish unit?

Normal.

How widespread. If you look at the number of posts about the problems, there are only 4 unique posters with problems. One poster had an issue with 1080i going into a device which turns HDMI to component (Digital to Analog) and is not technically supported.

One user had issues with his Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH. This was fixed through a quick firmware turn around.

Another two users had issues related to video dropouts. One gave up (did not want a replacement) and the other found his cable to be defective.

So our of the 4, two are real problems, 2 are not.

There have been other video/audio dropout reports, but who knows how many of these people have real issues, or just need to change a couple of cables or software solutions.

I was one of the few with a real problem. Will probably give the 983 another chance in a few months when bugs are worked out. Oppo's a great company with a great product.:)

I was one of the few with a real problem. Will probably give the 983 another chance in a few months when bugs are worked out. Oppo's a great company with a great product.:)

Iam sure it will work out for you. Have faith in OPPO ;)

Is there any difference in DVD [movie] audio quality on the 983 with HDMI vs digital optical? No difference.

Gary

I was one of the few with a real problem.

And it is a shame that you couldn't/wouldn't apply the firmware update that Oppo emailed to you when you contacted them about the issues you were having.

Indeed!

And it is a shame that you couldn't/wouldn't apply the firmware update that Oppo emailed to you when you contacted them about the issues you were having.

Drop it and give the hikinokie some peace.

How did you feel the last time your expectations were not met?

It is understood that the 7.1 ch analog out of the 983 is patterned after the 980 with some improvements. In searching for mods to the 980 this link to a thread in audiocircle came up:

http://www.audiocircle.com/circles/index.php?topic=49807.0

I haven't opened up the 983 yet to see what's inside. But curiosity leads me to ask if this type of mod might have benefits in the 983?

Drop it and give the hikinokie some peace.

How did you feel the last time your expectations were not met?

If someone is going to be a consumer of modern electronics, yet has no desire or ability to partake in a very simple troubleshooting step that would likely solve whatever trouble they are having, then being disappointed stops being an acceptable justification.

If the latest and shiniest toy is what you absolutely require, then you'd best be ready to troubleshoot and apply minor fixes. To behave otherwise suggests you have no place near the front of the line, and instead should relegate yourself to waiting for the technology to prove itself flawless before purchasing. At the end of the day, his behavior cost Oppo some profit margin on their new player, for no other reason than his refusal to apply a simple firmware update.

I do not work for Oppo and am I nobody's paid shill. However, I do not believe it acceptable to return a product without at the very least, attempting to solve the problem with a supplied, easy fix.

It is understood that the 7.1 ch analog out of the 983 is patterned after the 980 with some improvements. In searching for mods to the 980 this link to a thread in audiocircle came up:

http://www.audiocircle.com/circles/index.php?topic=49807.0

I haven't opened up the 983 yet to see what's inside. But curiosity leads me to ask if this type of mod might have benefits in the 983? Yes, such mods could have some benefits, but to hear the difference, you would have to have seriously high-end equipment, speakers, ears, and a listening room that has been properly acoustically treated.

Note the original poster's comments about some of the tradeoffs...
Let me make the disclaimer that bypassing the opamps and using only a cap between the DAC and the output jack does reduce output voltage. The result is that the player may not drive long cable runs very well, may not work well with a passive preamp, and may not have enough gain to drive an amp directly. But when plugged into a good preamp with gain, it works very well.

...Bypassing the opamp output stage in the Oppo cost me a lot of gain and I really had to crank up my preamp to deliver enough signal to the power amp. Each mod he did, introduced new problems, some quite serious, like this:
But I found that after I removed the 7805 regulator, the player started behaving erratically. The transport would sometimes stop reading DVDs and SACDs and the LFE channel stopped working. These mods are not for the faint-hearted. One mistake could blow your player and turn it into a boat-anchor. Additionally, when substituting passive components, you can run into problems with subtle (and not-so-subtle) phase shifts, phase inversions, messed up feedback loops, and the like. This would certainly make the player sound different, but will it really sound BETTER? In whose opinion will it sound better? And even if it does sound better, is it still ACCURATE to the source? Can you measure the results to be certain that nothing strange is happening? Read the ENTIRE thread through, and see the kinds of problems he ran into, before even thinking about doing something like this.

Gary

If someone is going to be a consumer of modern electronics, yet has no desire or ability to partake in a very simple troubleshooting step that would likely solve whatever trouble they are having, then being disappointed stops being an acceptable justification.

If the latest and shiniest toy is what you absolutely require, then you'd best be ready to troubleshoot and apply minor fixes. To behave otherwise suggests you have no place near the front of the line, and instead should relegate yourself to waiting for the technology to prove itself flawless before purchasing. At the end of the day, his behavior cost Oppo some profit margin on their new player, for no other reason than his refusal to apply a simple firmware update.

I do not work for Oppo and am I nobody's paid shill. However, I do not believe it acceptable to return a product without at the very least, attempting to solve the problem with a supplied, easy fix.

You are correct on one point. Being a non technical person unable/unwilling to apply a "simple fireware update" I should have waited months until this player was actually ready for the mass market. I was willing to buy my 4th hdmi cable after Oppo insisted twice and was agreed with by certain members of this AVS forum that 95% of video dropouts are caused by cable issues. After wasting my money on yet another cable did it solve the problem? Of course not. The manufacturers website clearly states that if something happens to the player during a diy firmware update the consumer is basically kaput. Now I'm supposed to download and install this firmware, something I've never done in my life? I don't think so. Didn't want a replacement either as stated above I should have waited until the player was ready. The website also clearly states that if I'm not satified FOR ANY REASON I have the right to return defective player within 30 days. Well shame on me for paying way over $400 for a dvd player and expecting it to work. And double dog shame on me for exercising my right to return a defective player.

You were within your rights for returning it (hence the 30-day "no questions asked" return policy) and it was unfortunate that you had a problem with your player, but I would question the assertion that the 983H was not "actually ready for the mass market." Whether the problem in your case was a bad cable (which I'd say was pretty well ruled out), defective hardware, or a firmware glitch of some sort, none of those appear to be issues that invalidate the player in general - all are, in fact, problems that could appear at any point in a product's production life. It's bad luck, not bad design.
The manufacturers website clearly states that if something happens to the player during a diy firmware update the consumer is basically kaput. Now I'm supposed to download and install this firmware, something I've never done in my life? I don't think so.
I think that some people are expressing frustration over your decision to not do the firmware update because the process used by OPPO is reliable enough that I personally do not recall hearing of anyone bricking an OPPO player in the almost three years that I've used OPPO players and followed discussions of their players in various online forums, and in spite of coaching from some forum members and reassurances that it was not a dangerous process you decided that it was too risky. All I would ask is that if you pick up another 983H later, you reconsider your policy of not installing firmware updates. OPPO has done very good things with firmware updates - not only fixing bugs, but often even adding features to their players.

You were within your rights for returning it (hence the 30-day "no questions asked" return policy) and it was unfortunate that you had a problem with your player, but I would question the assertion that the 983H was not "actually ready for the mass market." Whether the problem in your case was a bad cable (which I'd say was pretty well ruled out), defective hardware, or a firmware glitch of some sort, none of those appear to be issues that invalidate the player in general - all are, in fact, problems that could appear at any point in a product's production life. It's bad luck, not bad design.

I think that some people are expressing frustration over your decision to not do the firmware update because the process used by OPPO is reliable enough that I personally do not recall hearing of anyone bricking an OPPO player in the almost three years that I've used OPPO players and followed discussions of their players in various online forums, and in spite of coaching from some forum members and reassurances that it was not a dangerous process you decided that it was too risky. All I would ask is that if you pick up another 983H later, you reconsider your policy of not installing firmware updates. OPPO has done very good things with firmware updates - not only fixing bugs, but often even adding features to their players.

Thanks for being understanding gonk. When I try it again I'll be sure to buy me one of those thumb drive things y'all are talking about. :)

Thanks for being understanding gonk. When I try it again I'll be sure to buy me one of those thumb drive things y'all are talking about. :)
That is a quite easy solution to the firmware update process (and I've got a couple thumb drives that I keep in my briefcase which I've picked up for $10 or so), but you don't need to be afraid to try burning a CD-R if that's more convenient. The player won't blow up if you do something wrong with the disc - it will either ask to do the firmware update or it will not.

Thanks for being understanding gonk. When I try it again I'll be sure to buy me one of those thumb drive things y'all are talking about. :)

Dude if you are willing, let us guide you through step by step on how to burn the Firmware onto a CD-R and flashing it on your 983. Its really simple. :)

Dude if you are willing, let us guide you through step by step on how to burn the Firmware onto a CD-R and flashing it on your 983. Its really simple. :)

I'm glad for the help. :D Please understand I might have been willing to learn how to do the firmware upgrade but this thing had been dragging on for weeks and I was running out of time on my 30 days. Also I usually had about 6 very quick dropouts per movies so every time I tried a fix I'd have to sit thru' hours of movie (pausing sometimes) trying to not blink because that's how fast the dropouts were happening. But I will be more prepared next time. Checked Wal-Marts website and they have 4gb flash drives for only
$22.88 :eek: I had no idea! Seems like technology has been marching on without me. What I get for being a hermit bachelor.:)

I'm glad for the help. :D Please understand I might have been willing to learn how to do the firmware upgrade but this thing had been dragging on for weeks and I was running out of time on my 30 days. Also I usually had about 6 very quick dropouts per movies so every time I tried a fix I'd have to sit thru' hours of movie (pausing sometimes) trying to not blink because that's how fast the dropouts were happening. But I will be more prepared next time. Checked Wal-Marts website and they have 4gb flash drives for only
$22.88 :eek: I had no idea! Seems like technology has been marching on without me. What I get for being a hermit bachelor.:)

Getting a thumbdrive will be the best and easiest way for you to use the firmware upgrade.

No harm getting a thumbdrive for future use too ;)

I was willing to buy my 4th hdmi cable after Oppo insisted twice and was agreed with by certain members of this AVS forum that 95% of video dropouts are caused by cable issues.

And you just happen to be the 5% that does not follow the standard normality of the cable being the issue.

As an aside, I doubt OPPO forced you to purchase another cable.

The manufacturers website clearly states that if something happens to the player during a diy firmware update the consumer is basically kaput.

The disclaimer is a disclaimer. As much as they want to be the end all of customer satisfaction, they are still governed by the principles of being a company. That is, they need to protect themselves from errors which they should not be liable for, such as abuse of the firmware or user neglect. All electronics have such warnings when it comes to user allowable software alteration.

In every case I have heard of the firmware failing it is due to the customer not following the steps appropriately. This usually means turning Off the player during the middle of the firmware processes. In these cases OPPO has graciously taken back these players for repair servicing without cost to the customer.

Also, as noted several times before, they would not offer a service that could potentially harm their user base. It is not in their interest to allow for end user firmware upgrades if this means that many people will brick their units. It makes no financial or public relations sense to do so.

Now I'm supposed to download and install this firmware, something I've never done in my life?

At the point in the game, what did you have to lose? You waited for a new cable to arrive. This cable did not arrive until the weekend. You tell OPPO your stuff is still not working. They offered a firmware solution to your problem, as a hardware solution would have to wait until a minimum of Monday. If something went wrong, your player would have been replaced or refunded anyways.

The website also clearly states that if I'm not satified FOR ANY REASON I have the right to return defective player within 30 days. Well shame on me for paying way over $400 for a dvd player and expecting it to work. And double dog shame on me for exercising my right to return a defective player.

We are not saying that you had no right to return the player, we are just saying that you still had several options available to you that you decided to just completely ignore as you felt scorned over the entire process. It is understandable, but also frustrating to the people who have high regard for the DV-983H.

Think what you will. I'll say no more on this matter.

Think what you will. I'll say no more on this matter.

Hikinokie:

I'm with you on this.
1) You bought the product
2) It's operation did not meet your expectations
3) You returned the product for a full refund per Oppo's policy

Nuff said...you don't owe an explanation to anybody.

Would like to ask 983 owners who also own a Panasonic PX80 (or PX70) plasma display. That display accepts 1080p input but the native resolution of the set is either 1366x768 (50inch) or 1024x768 (42inch).

Have you compared the picture quality you get when the Oppo sends a 720p signal to when it sends a 1080p signal?

The PX80 has to either scale up from 720p to 768p or to scale down from 1080p to 768p. Which does it do better? Or no difference to your eye?

Thanks.

Would like to ask 983 owners who also own a Panasonic PX80 (or PX70) plasma display. That display accepts 1080p input but the native resolution of the set is either 1366x768 (50inch) or 1024x768 (42inch).

Have you compared the picture quality you get when the Oppo sends a 720p signal to when it sends a 1080p signal?

The PX80 has to either scale up from 720p to 768p or to scale down from 1080p to 768p. Which does it do better? Or no difference to your eye? Not sure if anyone owns a PX80/PX70 here. I'd imagine the 720p/1080p difference would be pretty small. But give both a try, and share your observations - your post could prove useful to someone else later.

Gary

Think what you will. I'll say no more on this matter.

Hikinokie you did what you felt comfortable doing and that is your decision. You do not need to justify returning the 983 to anyone on here. I think you were just one of the unlucky ones that may have had a defective player (which could happen with anything we buy). I will tell you I have had an extremely satisfying experiance with both audio and video on my 983.

If you are really looking for an amazing SD player then you may want to try purchasing another 983 down the road. Either way good luck with your future electronic purchases.

Nuff said...you don't owe an explanation to anybody.+1

Would like to ask 983 owners who also own a Panasonic PX80 (or PX70) plasma display. That display accepts 1080p input but the native resolution of the set is either 1366x768 (50inch) or 1024x768 (42inch).

Have you compared the picture quality you get when the Oppo sends a 720p signal to when it sends a 1080p signal?

The PX80 has to either scale up from 720p to 768p or to scale down from 1080p to 768p. Which does it do better? Or no difference to your eye?

Thanks.

I have different model but still Panasonic 50" 720P plasma. I've switched back and forth trying to see a difference. The difference is VERY subtle. I do sense some shift of the image caused by the different scaling ratios but again, SUBTLE.

I think I prefer the 983 set to output 720P. This is based just on viewing.

My logical theory of why I'd prefer 720 is that it is closer to panel native resolution therefore the 983 does most of the scaling getting close to native res of the panel and the TV does just a bit of tweaking. Setting to 1080 would mean that the SD res of the disc is scaled up even further by the Oppo (this has to introduce some errors no matter how good the scaler is) then the TV would have to scale it back quite a bit. That is a lot more manipulation of the image than happens at 720P output.

Or maybe I'm simply justifying my preference output settings.

Not sure if anyone owns a PX80/PX70 here. I'd imagine the 720p/1080p difference would be pretty small. But give both a try, and share your observations - your post could prove useful to someone else later.

Gary

I would .... after I decide what display to get (probably 42inch, max 46inch). As the Oppo can upscale to 1080p, I'm still trying to decide whether I should get a fullHD set instead of a HDready set. Wonder whether there will be any difference in what I see when the 983 is connected to it.

I have different model but still Panasonic 50" 720P plasma. I've switched back and forth trying to see a difference. The difference is VERY subtle. I do sense some shift of the image caused by the different scaling ratios but again, SUBTLE.

I think I prefer the 983 set to output 720P. This is based just on viewing.

My logical theory of why I'd prefer 720 is that it is closer to panel native resolution therefore the 983 does most of the scaling getting close to native res of the panel and the TV does just a bit of tweaking. Setting to 1080 would mean that the SD res of the disc is scaled up even further by the Oppo (this has to introduce some errors no matter how good the scaler is) then the TV would have to scale it back quite a bit. That is a lot more manipulation of the image than happens at 720P output.

Or maybe I'm simply justifying my preference output settings.

Thanks. Sounds logical.

This firmware also fixes the aspect ratio issue where some 16:9 titles were detected as 4:3.
-Bill

Really? Any ideas about when this beta firmware will be finalized and released?

Depends on OPPO finding further bugs. For them it is best to release a firmware which solves many problems then to release a firmware which as only some minor differences.

Hey Neuro, any chance on if or when we will get the same zoom functions on the 980 as we do on the 983? I really want that underscan for my living room lcd.
TIA

Likely never. The zooming on the DV-983H is handled through the ABT solution. The DV-980H would use the MTK solution and would produce not as accurate results.

Likely never. The zooming on the DV-983H is handled through the ABT solution. The DV-980H would use the MTK solution and would produce not as accurate results.

:(

I would .... after I decide what display to get (probably 42inch, max 46inch). As the Oppo can upscale to 1080p, I'm still trying to decide whether I should get a fullHD set instead of a HDready set. Wonder whether there will be any difference in what I see when the 983 is connected to it. You bet! A 1080p set is most definitely the way to go if you can afford it. Its more "future-proof" and the picture quality is considerably better. If you are looking at plasma, be sure to also compare the Sony LCD's - the XBR series or the less expensive KDL46V25xx/KDL46V3000 series, which all share the same high-quality panels.

Gary

I have different model but still Panasonic 50" 720P plasma. I've switched back and forth trying to see a difference. The difference is VERY subtle. I do sense some shift of the image caused by the different scaling ratios but again, SUBTLE.

I think I prefer the 983 set to output 720P. This is based just on viewing.

My logical theory of why I'd prefer 720 is that it is closer to panel native resolution therefore the 983 does most of the scaling getting close to native res of the panel and the TV does just a bit of tweaking. Setting to 1080 would mean that the SD res of the disc is scaled up even further by the Oppo (this has to introduce some errors no matter how good the scaler is) then the TV would have to scale it back quite a bit. That is a lot more manipulation of the image than happens at 720P output.

Or maybe I'm simply justifying my preference output settings.

I think you're making a lot of sense. It has been well-documented that sending a 720p signal to a 768p display is preferred PQ-wise.

Of course the most preferred is feeding the display its native resolution, 768p.

Oppo, are you listening? Wink, wink.

I would .... after I decide what display to get (probably 42inch, max 46inch). As the Oppo can upscale to 1080p, I'm still trying to decide whether I should get a fullHD set instead of a HDready set. Wonder whether there will be any difference in what I see when the 983 is connected to it.

Dude the bigger the better :D

I recently got 50" Panansonic Full HD and the viewing experience is awesome man!

Depends on OPPO finding further bugs. For them it is best to release a firmware which solves many problems then to release a firmware which as only some minor differences.

I understand that "policy"/idea and even agree with it... But lets say the 983 stays bug free (that is, no more fixes to add) I know I'd like to see the firmware released in a relatively reasonable time frame!

It'd be great to have the small 16:9 vs 4:3 detection glitches fixed. On the other hand it'd be a shame to never really get the fix due to the 983 not having more issues.

I understand that "policy"/idea and even agree with it... But lets say the 983 stays bug free (that is, no more fixes to add) I know I'd like to see the firmware released in a relatively reasonable time frame!

It'd be great to have the small 16:9 vs 4:3 detection glitches fixed. On the other hand it'd be a shame to never really get the fix due to the 983 not having more issues.

They're working on it right now Beaker ;). Hopefully your patience will be rewarded soon :).

It'd be great to have the small 16:9 vs 4:3 detection glitches fixed.


Yes, this is an irritating problem that I'd like to have fixed sooner than later.

I understand that "policy"/idea and even agree with it... But lets say the 983 stays bug free (that is, no more fixes to add) I know I'd like to see the firmware released in a relatively reasonable time frame!

Here is the catch: OPPO updates all of their players before they are released. So if you release a new firmware now, you will have to update the firmware again on all the products. It is rather time consuming to update all the DVD players to the latest firmware release, so it is to their advantage that they reduce the amount of time spent on making sure all of the products are up to speed.

If anything, OPPO will release a small firmware now as a BETA to fix some of the issues (4:3 pillarboxing, etc) for people who want it.

Post corrected:

The ABT chip handles the automatic pillarboxing on the "WIDE/AUTO" setting with no loss of resolution.

Gary

Likely never. The zooming on the DV-983H is handled through the ABT solution. The DV-980H would use the MTK solution and would produce not as accurate results.As observed the Oppo 980H cannot zoom some non-anamorphic films to fill the screen correctly like the Oppo 983H can. Example Universal studios version of Spartacus (1998) which uses an 2.21:1 aspect ratio is disappointing on a Oppo 980H because the artifacts are much more pronounced, and it doesn't scale correctly to width of a HD-TV display, but on the Oppo 983H you see no increase of artifacts and it scales correctly to the width of the screen when using one type of zoom available.

Just to clarify: This 16:9 / 4:3 detection problem only exists when when "TV Display" is set to "16:9 Wide/Auto". This mode is being fixed, but it is not recommended as the best way to display 4:3 content, because the MTK chip (MPEG decoder) does the pillar boxing, with a resultant loss of horizontal resolution.

It is better to set "TV Display" to "16:9 Wide", and then to use the "Zoom" button to manually pillarbox 4:3 content.

Gary

For me, it's not a resolution issue as I almost never watch material that is 4:3. It's when watching trailer's & special content that switch between 16:9 & 4:3 randomly that it becomes a PITA. :mad: It's not the end of the world, but it's surprising to me that it wasn't caught prior to release. Regardless, it still has the best DVD picture I've seem. :)

Think what you will. I'll say no more on this matter.

hikinokie, I am not sure whether you are still reading this thread.

As you can see, there are a few very strong enthusiasts for the 983 (or OPPO for that matter). It is the same in most other threads and therefore, one has to be careful of what one says. That is one of the reasons I don’t post much (look at my join date and post number). FYI I updated my 983 with the latest firmware and it solved one issue but created another. Also, the 2-second delay in CD payback will never be resolved, judging by the response I got from OPPO.

OPPO claimed so far there are only 2 specific receivers having these (non-CD playback) issues, one is the Onkyo 803 (or is it the 805) and the other is the Denon 5308.

I like the unit well enough to wait for the next update to fix these relatively minor issues. For you, you chose to return the unit. Please come back when the issues are resolved to your liking, hopefully soon.

For me, it's not a resolution issue as I almost never watch material that is 4:3. It's when watching trailer's & special content that switch between 16:9 & 4:3 randomly that it becomes a PITA. :mad: It's not the end of the world, but it's surprising to me that it wasn't caught prior to release.

It was caught, it just wasn't fixed. Waiting would have meant still more delay for something that has an easy work-around. They had to kick it back to Mediatak for a solution, which actually came back faster than I expected.

-Bill

It was caught, it just wasn't fixed. Waiting would have meant still more delay for something that has an easy work-around. They had to kick it back to Mediatak for a solution, which actually came back faster than I expected.

-Bill

Neuromancer suggested that I can get the beta for this. Are there any known issues with the beta that I need to know about? I don't want to mess up any basic functions or performance for what is basically an irritant while waiting for the final version.

No known problems, but that doesn't mean none exist.

Neuromancer suggested that I can get the beta for this. Are there any known issues with the beta that I need to know about? I don't want to mess up any basic functions or performance for what is basically an irritant while waiting for the final version.

I'm using the beta and have only two issues; I'm not sure if they existed before the current beta.

(1) Intermittent HDMI A/V dropouts. Sometimes they don't occur for hours, but I have seem them in clusters a few minutes apart.

(2) When resuming a previously ejected disc, sometimes the MENU button doesn't work.

I still see some aspect ratio confusion when viewing mixed 4:3 and 16:9 menus and titles. The title can be fixed by toggling the INFO button, but this doesn't work on menu videos (sometimes intro materials are actually authored as menus). I haven't written this up for Oppo yet because I need to study it.

-Bill

I'm using the beta and have only two issues; I'm not sure if they existed before the current beta.

(1) Intermittent HDMI A/V dropouts. Sometimes they don't occur for hours, but I have seem them in clusters a few minutes apart.

(2) When resuming a previously ejected disc, sometimes the MENU button doesn't work.

I still see some aspect ratio confusion when viewing mixed 4:3 and 16:9 menus and titles. The title can be fixed by toggling the INFO button, but this doesn't work on menu videos (sometimes intro materials are actually authored as menus). I haven't written this up for Oppo yet because I need to study it.

-Bill

Thank you Bill!

Re: #1, I've experienced the HDMI A/V dropouts already with the initial firmware. I'm assuming this will be fixed at some point.

If you're still seeing some aspect ratio confusion w/the beta, then there isn't any reason for me to try it.

I do watch critically, but I don't have the patience to problem solve for Oppo, so I'm very grateful to folks like you and Neuromancer that are willing to dive deep to get this stuff fixed!

If you're still seeing some aspect ratio confusion w/the beta, then there isn't any reason for me to try it.

Well, the beta does fix the problem originally reported: some 16:9 titles mistakenly detected as 4:3, causing pillarboxing when using Wide/Auto.

But I just watched a disc when I had to toggle INFO to get the aspect ratio correct. A minor issue but still not perfect. Probably wouldn't happen if I weren't using Wide/Auto, but as was mentioned, WIDE is a pain when the feature is 16:9 but the previews and supplements are sometimes 4:3.

-Bill

hikinokie, I am not sure whether you are still reading this thread.

As you can see, there are a few very strong enthusiasts for the 983 (or OPPO for that matter). It is the same in most other threads and therefore, one has to be careful of what one says. That is one of the reasons I don’t post much (look at my join date and post number). FYI I updated my 983 with the latest firmware and it solved one issue but created another. Also, the 2-second delay in CD payback will never be resolved, judging by the response I got from OPPO.

OPPO claimed so far there are only 2 specific receivers having these (non-CD playback) issues, one is the Onkyo 803 (or is it the 805) and the other is the Denon 5308.

I like the unit well enough to wait for the next update to fix these relatively minor issues. For you, you chose to return the unit. Please come back when the issues are resolved to your liking, hopefully soon.

Thank you. I've been lurking quietly but intently.:)

Hopefully sooner than later, the picture on my 970 ain't that great now that I've seen the 983:(

Thank you Bill!

Re: #1, I've experienced the HDMI A/V dropouts already with the initial firmware. I'm assuming this will be fixed at some point.

If you're still seeing some aspect ratio confusion w/the beta, then there isn't any reason for me to try it.

I do watch critically, but I don't have the patience to problem solve for Oppo, so I'm very grateful to folks like you and Neuromancer that are willing to dive deep to get this stuff fixed!

Have been a very happy Oppo 981 owner since it was released and just wanted to add my thanks to GSB, Neuromancer, Gonk, et al for all their effort on the 983 as I am waiting for my rebate check to buy this player and have thus been reading this thread diligently to keep up-to-date.

p.s. I just want to add that every time I requested a firmware update disc from Oppo for the 981, I received it withing 3-4 days, followed the simple instructions, and have never had a problem.

hikinokie, I am not sure whether you are still reading this thread.

As you can see, there are a few very strong enthusiasts for the 983 (or OPPO for that matter). It is the same in most other threads and therefore, one has to be careful of what one says. That is one of the reasons I don’t post much (look at my join date and post number). FYI I updated my 983 with the latest firmware and it solved one issue but created another. Also, the 2-second delay in CD payback will never be resolved, judging by the response I got from OPPO.

OPPO claimed so far there are only 2 specific receivers having these (non-CD playback) issues, one is the Onkyo 803 (or is it the 805) and the other is the Denon 5308.

I like the unit well enough to wait for the next update to fix these relatively minor issues. For you, you chose to return the unit. Please come back when the issues are resolved to your liking, hopefully soon.

I think sometimes the line gets crossed here between "enthusiast" and advocate. In either case, it's sad that you would feel compelled to hold back on your thoughts. From my perspective, hikinokie probably began to feel a bit browbeaten, but I believe that most of the folks here were genuine in their attempts to get him to hang in there and resolve his problems.

Also, FWIW, there are reports in the forum indicating that the general delay issue has been addressed in the most recent Onkyo firmware v1.08.

hikinokie, I am not sure whether you are still reading this thread... Please come back when the issues are resolved to your liking, hopefully soon. Agreed. It was good to see him happily coming back, even after returning his player.
As you can see, there are a few very strong enthusiasts for the 983 (or OPPO for that matter). It is the same in most other threads and therefore, one has to be careful of what one says. Its not necessarily that one has to be careful of what one says... its really all about attitude. Think of this forum as a room where enthusiasts and newcomers gather to help one another out and share valuable experiences, and for companies like OPPO to gain valuable feedback.

If someone comes in complaining and mud-slinging, rather than genuinely seeking help or advice, they will not be welcome. The same would be true of someone who refused the help they were offered, but continued to whine. It just adds to the noise, detracts from the usefulness of the thread, and unfairly bashes the good name of a product or company. (I'm not pointing at anyone here).

This forum is frequented by many highly skilled enthusiasts from many different disciplines. Their collective experience is astounding, and they spend many tireless (and sometimes thankless) hours helping people to the best of their ability. We applaud them for that.

Gary

Also, FWIW, there are reports in the forum indicating that the general delay issue has been addressed in the most recent Onkyo firmware v1.08.

Can you please provide more info, a PM, or even a link?... I'd appreciate it. TIA

Can you please provide more info, a PM, or even a link?... I'd appreciate it. TIA

Hi Smarty-pants. There have been so many threads on the topic that I'm not sure where the post originated, but here's a link where an Onkyo user has v1.08 and he refers to the audio delay. I hope this helps.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13492564#post13492564

Hi Smarty-pants. There have been so many threads on the topic that I'm not sure where the post originated, but here's a link where an Onkyo user has v1.08 and he refers to the audio delay. I hope this helps.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13492564#post13492564

Oh... THAT. I thought you were talking about something else :o. Thanks for the link though, I appreciate it. :)

(2) When resuming a previously ejected disc, sometimes the MENU button doesn't work.



The same with the original firmware. Opening/closing the tray usually works.

I just thought my remote had bad / low batteries or was slow (or something!).

I've had the "menu" button not respond or I should say, work at all, on several occassions. Maybe a fix for that can be wrapped in with the 16:9 Auto/Wide settings detection fix.

I actually sat through an entire set of "Commerical" junk to get to the main menu twice now just thinking the disk isn't letting the player skip those annoying "movie commericals"! I was wondering why I didn't get the not valid command icon (circle with diagonal) like the FBI warning, etc.

Hopefully sooner than later, the picture on my 970 ain't that great now that I've seen the 983:(

Hey hikinokie,

If/when you get another 983, I have a CD with the new (beta) firmware Oppo sent me. I'd be happy to send it on to you.

You bet! A 1080p set is most definitely the way to go if you can afford it. Its more "future-proof" and the picture quality is considerably better. If you are looking at plasma, be sure to also compare the Sony LCD's - the XBR series or the less expensive KDL46V25xx/KDL46V3000 series, which all share the same high-quality panels.

Gary

Your enthusiasm is certainly infectious. :)

Mainly viewing standard broadcast and upscaled DVD from the 983. Not into 1080p source ... yet (until my country's broadcasters' programming get better and Blu Ray gets cheaper).

Viewing distance from my sofa would be 9ft (kids sitting on the floor would probably be from 5.5 to 6.5 ft). If I get a 42inch set (or even a 46 inch set), I wonder about 2 things:
- Firstly, would the details from a 1080p set be lost to me because I don't sit near enough to the display?
- Secondly, I'm watching upscaled DVDs from the 983 - sure, it's upscaled to 1080p, but in the first place, the source is only 480. All that "extra" resolution isn't really true detail because it's what the 983 is adding, so there isn't really any extra detail for me to watch anyway.

I would definitely want to consider getting a 1080p set if I can actually see a difference, but my research thus far points towards the conclusion that I might not see a difference.

I'm waiting for the 2008 Panasonic plasmas to be available in my country for me to check out the difference. But I really hate showroom viewing cos it's so difficult to evaluate under those viewing conditions.

My heart says get the 1080p, my head says get the 768p set. *sigh*

Mainly viewing standard broadcast and upscaled DVD from the 983. Not into 1080p source ... yet Same here... though I seldom watch TV anymore... mostly SD DVD.
Viewing distance from my sofa would be 9ft (kids sitting on the floor would probably be from 5.5 to 6.5 ft). If I get a 42inch set (or even a 46 inch set), I wonder about 2 things:
- Firstly, would the details from a 1080p set be lost to me because I don't sit near enough to the display?
- Secondly, I'm watching upscaled DVDs from the 983 - sure, it's upscaled to 1080p, but in the first place, the source is only 480. All that "extra" resolution isn't really true detail because it's what the 983 is adding, so there isn't really any extra detail for me to watch anyway. I sit 12 feet from my 46" set and I can clearly see the difference, even with an SD DVD source (thankfully, my eyes are still sharp). I used two 46" 720p sets before settling for the 1080p. You're absolutely correct that the "extra" resolution in upscaled DVD isn't true detail. However, the higher the screen resolution, the smoother the image looks (ESPECIALLY with the 983!) Plasma sets have more of a "screen door" effect, particularly at lower resolutions, which can make the image look a little more pixelated, and not quite as smooth. Resolution/pixelation becomes less of an issue as screen size decreases, or viewing distance increases.

The 1080p difference will be even more remarkable when a 1080p source arrives somewhere in your future.
I'm waiting for the 2008 Panasonic plasmas to be available in my country for me to check out the difference. But I really hate showroom viewing cos it's so difficult to evaluate under those viewing conditions.

My heart says get the 1080p, my head says get the 768p set. *sigh* As awful as showroom conditions and TV settings can be, they can still be useful for certain side-by-side comparisons (like resolution) if they are receiving the same digital signal and have similar settings. I do understand the price tradeoff though, and you are obviously doing your homework, so all the best with your decision!

Gary

Since it won´t be sold in Europe I´m thinking of ordering it from OPPO US.

I own a ''37 Panasonic TH-PX70 plasma set (720P) and a Pioneer VSX-D1011 A/V receiver.

1)
Planning on feeding the video direct to the OPPO 983 via HDMI, and Audio via Coxial to the A/V receiver. Shouldn´t be a problem as I undertsand it. Am I correct on this?

2)
Does OPPO update to the latest firmware before shipping them out? Or how does that work?

3)
How does the OPPO handle "Color Banding --> solarization --> posturization"?
I have issues now with my cheap Denver DVD player. I assume it´s the players capabilities that is responsible for this?

Looking forward to expert answers. ;)

Just to clarify: This 16:9 / 4:3 detection problem only exists when when "TV Display" is set to "16:9 Wide/Auto". This mode is being fixed, but it is not recommended as the best way to display 4:3 content, because the MTK chip (MPEG decoder) does the pillar boxing, with a resultant loss of horizontal resolution.

It is better to set "TV Display" to "16:9 Wide", and then to use the "Zoom" button to manually pillarbox 4:3 content.


Is this certain? This is the only post in which I can recall seeing this mentioned. Neuromancer mentioned in the closed "Presents" thread that the ABT chip handled the pillarboxing.

I am expecting my player today and I'm gathering all the information I can before I set it up. I have the 971 and the 981 so I'm fairly familiar with the OPPO software.

I would prefer to use the Wide/Auto mode if I could do so without a loss of resolution.

Is this certain? This is the only post in which I can recall seeing this mentioned. Neuromancer mentioned in the closed "Presents" thread that the ABT chip handled the pillarboxing.

I am expecting my player today and I'm gathering all the information I can before I set it up. I have the 971 and the 981 so I'm fairly familiar with the OPPO software.

I would prefer to use the Wide/Auto mode if I could do so without a loss of resolution.

I too was wondering about this. It definitely contradicts Neuromancer's previous posts.

I have been considering purchasing an OPPO DVD player for some time but have been waiting for a player that supports the 7.1 audio for those very few DVDs that actually have EX. I will be hooking the Oppo 983 to a Pioneer VSX-94txh. Have the following questions:

1) Will the Oppo bitstream out the audio similar to my Panny BD30 over HDMI and let the Pioneer 94 do sound processing for all formats?
2) If no bitstream will it still send 7.1 over HDMI
3) Is the best way to output the audio through the 7.1 analog to the Pioneer?

I am sort of a HT newbie and I appreciate any info.

My current setup:
Display: Sony kds-60a2000
Speakers: PSB Image: T45s, C40, B15 (sides & rears), and Subsonic 6i
A/V Reciever: Pioneer VSX-94TXh
Blu Ray: Panasonic DMP-BD30k fw1.6
DVD: Sony DVP-NS71H

Hey hikinokie,

If/when you get another 983, I have a CD with the new (beta) firmware Oppo sent me. I'd be happy to send it on to you.

Well Oppo has received my return and issued a refund so now the waiting and watching begins.:) Maybe they can put it under their microscope and figure out what was wrong with it.
Thanks for the cd offer.

I have been considering purchasing an OPPO DVD player for some time but have been waiting for a player that supports the 7.1 audio for those very few DVDs that actually have EX. I will be hooking the Oppo 983 to a Pioneer VSX-94txh. Have the following questions:

1) Will the Oppo bitstream out the audio similar to my Panny BD30 over HDMI and let the Pioneer 94 do sound processing for all formats?
2) If no bitstream will it still send 7.1 over HDMI
3) Is the best way to output the audio through the 7.1 analog to the Pioneer?

I am sort of a HT newbie and I appreciate any info.

My current setup:
Display: Sony kds-60a2000
Speakers: PSB Image: T45s, C40, B15 (sides & rears), and Subsonic 6i
A/V Reciever: Pioneer VSX-94TXh
Blu Ray: Panasonic DMP-BD30k fw1.6
DVD: Sony DVP-NS71H

SD is not nearly as complicated as HD. You can send a bitstream via optical, digital coax, or HDMI and have the Pio94 decode the EX and/or ES soundtracks in 7.1 bliss.
I would recommend using the HDMI.

hi - i have the 981 and use it on a 40 inch lcd - was wondering how much better will the 983 do with PQ etc.
i use mines at 1080p --

the price is a big jump - i wasnt expecting $399 - that makes me think if is it better off getting a Blu Ray player at this point since blu ray is the winner -

while the format war was going on - i can see getting a good upconvert - but now thats its over -

is it worth spending $399 for the 983 or just get a blu ray for $499 - ?

My advice is to keep the 981 for your display. Wait a few months for the newer BD players to hit the steets and then pick a good one to buy.
The 983 is better than the 981, but if you really like the pic and features of the 981, and you don't want to shell out that much dough for it, then you seem like you'd be better off sticking with the 981. The differences that you'll see between the 2 units will be very minimal on a 40" tv.

hi - i have the 981 and use it on a 40 inch lcd - was wondering how much better will the 983 do with PQ etc.
i use mines at 1080p --

the price is a big jump - i wasnt expecting $399 - that makes me think if is it better off getting a Blu Ray player at this point since blu ray is the winner -

while the format war was going on - i can see getting a good upconvert - but now thats its over -

s it worth spending $399 for the 983 or just get a blu ray for $499 - ?
You already have a good DVD player. Why not add Blu-ray? If you really want the best of both worlds get a Blu-ray player and a 983:cool:

Is this certain? This is the only post in which I can recall seeing this mentioned. Neuromancer mentioned in the closed "Presents" thread that the ABT chip handled the pillarboxing.

I am expecting my player today and I'm gathering all the information I can before I set it up. I have the 971 and the 981 so I'm fairly familiar with the OPPO software.

I would prefer to use the Wide/Auto mode if I could do so without a loss of resolution.

I am very certain that the 983H uses the ABT chip to do pillarboxing. As long as you output 720p or above, pillarboxing 4:3 (16:9 Wide/Auto) mode will not cause any loss of resolution. I tested this when I did the 983H vs PS3 comparison (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13357573#post13357573).

Since it won´t be sold in Europe I´m thinking of ordering it from OPPO US.

I own a ''37 Panasonic TH-PX70 plasma set (720P) and a Pioneer VSX-D1011 A/V receiver.

1)
Planning on feeding the video direct to the OPPO 983 via HDMI, and Audio via Coxial to the A/V receiver. Shouldn´t be a problem as I undertsand it. Am I correct on this?

2)
Does OPPO update to the latest firmware before shipping them out? Or how does that work?

3)
How does the OPPO handle "Color Banding --> solarization --> posturization"?
I have issues now with my cheap Denver DVD player. I assume it´s the players capabilities that is responsible for this?

Looking forward to expert answers. ;)

No expert here, but I would just say what I know:

1) Correct.
2) Yes. OPPO ships with latest official firmware. If you need to try a beta version, you need to download and update yourself.
3) So far no such issues seen with my several OPPO models (upgraded from 981HD to 983H recently, still have my 980H). As long as the disc is encoded without such problems, the player will not add issues.

I am very certain that the 983H uses the ABT chip to do pillarboxing. As long as you output 720p or above, pillarboxing 4:3 (16:9 Wide/Auto) mode will not cause any loss of resolution. I tested this when I did the 983H vs PS3 comparison (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13357573#post13357573).

Thanks a lot, Jeffhdz! That's what I wanted to hear.


I just received delivery of my unit and I've put it through a few tests.

Even on my 32" 1080P set, I see a more film-like picture and, while subtle compared to the 981HD, the overall experience of watching material is more satisfying.

I am having the problem I've seen others mention with blacker-than-black and whiter-than-white on my set, however (Sharp Aquos LC-GP1U). When the color space is set to "Auto" or "4:4:4", the unit will not pass blacker-than-black nor whiter-than-white to my set, as tested with DVE. When set to RGB, these are passed.

The 981 worked in both "Auto" and "4:4:4" modes to pass these.


I'm also wondering what the chances are of getting this unit to keep the subtitles within the frame in the future. I believe this was being worked on for people running CIH setups and I believe the same principle applies here.

For some foreign, non-anamorphic titles, I lose subtitles when zooming to fill the widescreen. A good example is the Kino Video release of Dersu Uzala. Zooming chops off the second line of the subtitles (and part of the first line).

Now, this did work with the 981HD, actually, but the quality left much to be desired. The zoom on this new unit is beautiful and it would be a very nice feature to have.


My first impressions of the player are good. I would like to see the color space issues worked out, if possible, but I'm initially quite pleased.

I have tried to read a good bit of info out there on this player, but still am not sure if I want to order one or not. Here is my situation, followed by my question:

Panny AE2000 1080p at 106" (REMARKABLE picture quality)
Toshiba A2 (I probably jinxed the market when I bought it last fall!)
Sony BDP300 ($225 refurbished...had to jump in!)
Dedicated theater setup
DishHD

Watching DishHD, clearly there are movies on HBO that are not true HD source, but have been upscaled. That said, the quality is still quite good. Is the 983 output comparable? This is the real question. Actually, the idea of a $400 SD player w/ superb chips seems CHEAP to me...but I paid $625 for my first HiFi-VCR > 20 yrs ago!

The upscaling I get from the Toshiba A2 is actually pretty good, although the copy protection stuff does get activated at times (and the message about output set at 480p).

Thanks for input and all of you early adopters of this piece. My dad has been very pleased w/ his 981 on a 65" HD Samsung, and it seems quite reliable.

MTBDOC, based on the information you have provided, I would recomend getting a 983. It will kick the A2 to the curb and never look back. If you read back through this thread, you will find comments about how the 983s pic compares to HD. Will it look HD?... no, but depending on the transfer of the movie, ect...ect...ect... There are so many variables. The fact of the matter is that the 983 makes SD-dvds look better than they ever have before, and believe me, it will be a significant difference on your big screen. Oppo even has a 30 day return policy. If you don't like it, send it back. Believe me on this as well, as long as you're not hung up on the price, and you are looking for the best picture quality for your SD-dvds, you will NOT be sending it back. Plus don't forget that the 983 is a universal player. You can play many formats of video and audio on this player, and even if you're not into all that, like SACD and DVDA, it's still fun to try that stuff if you haven't already. I can go up to 108" on my screen right now, and when I put on a movie with good specs, it looks fantastic. Once again, highly recomended.
Good luck... :)

MTBDOC, believe Gonk about trying the new features. I am very happy with the PQ of the 983 and, as a result of following this thread, I finally bought my 1st SACD's and can't believe the difference over a regular CD. My 1st purchase was the Dark Side of the Moon and was really impressed with the sound. I'm lucky in that I missed all of the rock music of the 70's and early 80's so it's all new to me and very enjoyable. Now my only regret is that when I replaced my receiver last year I would have got one that processed HDMI audio instead of just being a HDMI switch.

Dark Side of the Moon...I can still remember the first time I heard it...10th grade, smokin' a doob...absolutely mind boggling!

Anyone complaining about the price of the 983 needs to understand electronics and pricing from an historical perspective.

BTW: until I bought the new gear this past fall, I'd been pleased with several years of great service out of my RP82. Never bought a DVD-A to try out. The 480p image from that was great on my old 65" RPTV. Great use out of the 3801 receiver (replacec w/ a 3808) too.

Anyway, the Mrs asked about how many SD movies we will continue to watch, and that remains a great question. We didn't buy all that many as we were very early Netflix subscribers and saw everything that way. If I had bought some of their stock instead of just telling everyone about what a great service it was, I'd be waaaay ahead of the game!

You already have a good DVD player. Why not add Blu-ray? If you really want the best of both worlds get a Blu-ray player and a 983:cool:

i was just wondering if the asking price for the 983 really worth it being that you can get a great blu ray for just a $100 more - ? i have the 981 now - i could put that in my bedroom and add the 983 in the main room - but would it be really worth it ?

wouldnt a $500 sony blu ray give a better picture than the 983 ? since blu ray won - its safe to buy blu ray players - the S500 from sony got great reviews -

i guess what i like to know from others who have the 983 now - and anyone here is how can a upconvert stand up against a real blu ray player now ?

wouldnt the S500 from sony beat out any upconvert unit on the market ? if the price were just a bit lower - i would say ok - but being that its pretty close to the real deal blu ray - why would someone pick a upconvert over the real deal at this point if the price is very close ?

expresso712, not sure what you are asking. If you are comparing the 983 for SD-dvd playback, to a BR player for SD-dvd playback, then the 983 wins. The only thing that comes close to the 983 is the Toshiba HD-XA2 HD-DVD player.
For many, many people, they have amassed hundreds or even thousands of dvds in their library. In order to view those movies in the best possible way, they have chosen the 983. To date, no BR player can play SD-dvds better than the 983. That is, unless your BR player can output 480i to an expensive external processor/scaler which would cost much more than just a stand alone player like the 983.

i was just wondering if the asking price for the 983 really worth it being that you can get a great blu ray for just a $100 more - ? i have the 981 now - i could put that in my bedroom and add the 983 in the main room - but would it be really worth it ?

wouldnt a $500 sony blu ray give a better picture than the 983 ? since blu ray won - its safe to buy blu ray players - the S500 from sony got great reviews -

i guess what i like to know from others who have the 983 now - and anyone here is how can a upconvert stand up against a real blu ray player now ?

wouldnt the S500 from sony beat out any upconvert unit on the market ? if the price were just a bit lower - i would say ok - but being that its pretty close to the rea l deal blu ray - why would someone pick a upconvert over the real deal at this point if the price is very close ?
The OPPO 983 isn't going to produce as good an image with standard definition DVD as a BD player can will with HD Blu-ray media. That is for sure. However, the 983 will produce a much better image with standard definition DVD than any BD player currently on the market. There are still quite a few movies that are not on Blu-ray such as Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Matrix, Bourne series, Casablanca, Lawrence of Arabia, etc. Any of those movies will look better on the 983 than they will on any BD player.

I would bet that most of the people who are purchasing the OPPO 983 already have a Blu-ray player. If you are an absolute video fanatic you will want both.

Add: The real question is do you want 100% of your movies to look 20% better or 20% of your movies to look 100% better? And before you answer that question, what percentage of your favorite movies on are on Blu-ray already versus DVD only?

expresso712, not sure what you are asking. If you are comparing the 983 for SD-dvd playback, to a BR player for SD-dvd playback, then the 983 wins. The only thing that comes close to the 983 is the Toshiba HD-XA2 HD-DVD player.
For many, many people, they have amassed hundreds or even thousands of dvds in their library. In order to view those movies in the best possible way, they have chosen the 983. To date, no BR player can play SD-dvds better than the 983. That is, unless your BR player can output 480i to an expensive external processor/scaler which would cost much more than just a stand alone player like the 983.

+1
as I previously commented on, I have over 400 DVD movies and 150 DVD concerts, many of which won't be released on BD, and with the stellar quality of the 983, I probably wouldn't double dip anyway. I think many miss the purpose of the 983 in comparing it to BD. It is simply the best option for an existing library, that by choice or studio won't be "Blue Rayed"............. as well as for those that are holding off on adopting BD.

John

I would bet that most of the people who are purchasing the OPPO 983 already have a Blu-ray player. If you are an absolute video fanatic you will want both.

I've tried to explain to the wife why I need/have 3 dvd players, but she just doesn't get it. :D

The OPPO 983 isn't going to produce as good an image with standard definition DVD as a BD player can will with HD Blu-ray media. That is for sure. However, the 983 will produce a much better image with standard definition DVD than any BD player currently on the market. There are still quite a few movies that are not on Blu-ray such as Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Matrix, Bourne series, Casablanca, Lawrence of Arabia, etc. Any of those movies will look better on the 983 than they will on any BD player.

I would bet that most of the people who are purchasing the OPPO 983 already have a Blu-ray player. If you are an absolute video fanatic you will want both.

Add: The real question is do you want 100% of your movies to look 20% better or 20% of your movies to look 100% better? And before you answer that question, what percentage of your favorite movies on are on Blu-ray already versus DVD only?

ok so from what i am understanding is that the current blu ray players wont give a better picture on SD dvds than the oppo - 983 or even 981 ?

and thats the reason for getting a 983 if you wanted the best PQ from a SD dvd -

so how does the 983 or 981 compare against a blu ray with SD dvds -- can the new blu rays do that bad of a job on upconverting SD dvds ?

also i have the 981 now - how much better could i expect if i got the 983 - 983 vs 981 ? the only drawback of the 981 is it only has HDMI for output - so i have to use my AV all the time when i watch movies -

I've tried to explain to the wife why I need/have 3 dvd players, but she just doesn't get it. :D

Don't get me started on that.

:D

One thing that finally worked on my wife was that the new Oppo will be black.

My trusty old Skyworth DVD is silver and has been clashing with the rest of the gear.

Now all I need is a BLACK blu-ray player and we'll be all set.

PS - decorating is sure expensive...;)

Can anyone tell me how the 983H upscaling compares to the PS3? Equal to it? Better?

I brought a big collection of Region 4 DVDs with me when I moved to the US, and the upscaling of R4 discs on my Oppo 971, whilst watchable, really pales in comparison to the quality of the upscaling the PS3 does on my R1 discs.

If the 983H is as good as or better than the PS3 I think I will be ordering one!

hi.
I haven't posted in a while but I just wanted to say that i will definitely be purchasing a 983 once they come back into stock on a regular basis.

I find it kind of funny that when comparing the 983 to other upscalers, the only one that gets mentioned as being close is the Toshiba HD-XA2 . how come no one mentions the Denon 2930 or the even higher scale Denon models? I have never owned one but for the money they charge they have to be good. right?

Actually I did own a Denon 1920 for a short time and was very frustrated on how it would choke on so many discs. i had to return it. The audio was excellent though.

I have had a Oppo 981 for a long time and have been so happy with it! However i must buy the 983 because i want the best Oppo possible. That is why I have never invested in Blu-Ray. I will never buy another dvd player again unless its an OPPO. I will not buy a Blu-ray player until OPPO comes out with theirs. I will not be a guinea pig for this new technology.

I have a Sony Sony KD-34XBR970 for a display and standard dvd's look amazing at 1080i (it dosen't do 1080p. Its a tube television. The last hi-def tube television sony made)

I really wish OPPPO would also make a AV Receiver. Now wouldn't that be the greatest thing ever!!

Looking forward to your responses.
Russ

Can anyone tell me how the 983H upscaling compares to the PS3? Equal to it? Better?

I brought a big collection of Region 4 DVDs with me when I moved to the US, and the upscaling of R4 discs on my Oppo 971, whilst watchable, really pales in comparison to the quality of the upscaling the PS3 does on my R1 discs.

If the 983H is as good as or better than the PS3 I think I will be ordering one!
The 983 blows the PS3 away. It is more film like with crisper more natural details.

I don't have experience with a 981 myself, but based on what I've read from others I'm surprised with by your experiences. Did you actually do a direct comparison between the 971 and the PS3 using the same R1 discs?

Can anyone tell me how the 983H upscaling compares to the PS3? Equal to it? Better?

I brought a big collection of Region 4 DVDs with me when I moved to the US, and the upscaling of R4 discs on my Oppo 971, whilst watchable, really pales in comparison to the quality of the upscaling the PS3 does on my R1 discs.

If the 983H is as good as or better than the PS3 I think I will be ordering one!Much better! There have been several comparisons. Jeffhdz recently submitted this minireview (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13357573#post13357573). Per Jeffhdz "I would say the 983H does a better job processing DVD than the PS3. It handles more cadences, has less flickering, and less etching. Bad Edits handling is also better on the 983H. On the other hand, the PS3 can play Blu-ray and still does a very good job playing DVD, especially animations. I will keep both on my A/V rack, with the PS3 primarily for Blu-ray, and the 983H for the rest of round discs."

I think that is pretty much most people's gameplan, the Oppo 983H for SD-DVD's, and a good Blu-Ray player additionally.:)

TThere are still quite a few movies that are not on Blu-ray such as Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Matrix, Bourne series, Casablanca, Lawrence of Arabia, etc. Any of those movies will look better on the 983 than they will on any BD player.
Very true, but you only have a few hundred Blu-Ray titles currently, and +50,000 SD DVD titles to choose from. If you are a true movie buff you still have to buy SD-DVD's most of the time considering all the classic movies, television shows, music videos out there. ;)

I've tried to explain to the wife why I need/have 3 dvd players, but she just doesn't get it. :D

I thought I was the only one :). Still looking to add another BD player and a 983 for my living room along with my A3. I'm using an A1, 10A, Oppo 970 with my VP30 scaler in my Cinema Room (CIH) 51"x120" 2.35:1 screen with a UH380 Lens.

Don't get me started on that.

:D

One thing that finally worked on my wife was that the new Oppo will be black.

My trusty old Skyworth DVD is silver and has been clashing with the rest of the gear.

Now all I need is a BLACK blu-ray player and we'll be all set.

PS - decorating is sure expensive...;)
:eek: What you too.. I KNOW THATS RIGHT..LOL :)

Is this certain? This is the only post in which I can recall seeing this mentioned. Neuromancer mentioned in the closed "Presents" thread that the ABT chip handled the pillarboxing.

I would prefer to use the Wide/Auto mode if I could do so without a loss of resolution. I am very certain that the 983H uses the ABT chip to do pillarboxing. As long as you output 720p or above, pillarboxing 4:3 (16:9 Wide/Auto) mode will not cause any loss of resolution. I tested this when I did the 983H vs PS3 comparison (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13357573#post13357573). You're right. Sorry for my incorrect/outdated info on the "WIDE/AUTO" setting. The ABT chip handles the automatic pillarboxing with no loss of resolution. I have confirmed it and corrected my post. I was fully aware that the ABT chip did the pillarboxing when using the zoom button. It may have been an early beta that suffered loss of resolution when automatically pillarboxing with the "WIDE/AUTO" setting. Its not an issue anymore.

Gary

Just a couple of observations about the 983 remote.

First, while it is not backlit, the buttons are luminous. In a darkened room, I can easily find and operate the 983 remote because of this feature. I suspect it needs to be exposed to daylight to maintain its luminescence so better not store it in a drawer.)

Second, apparently Logitech has the 983 in its remote control data base. After discovering that my universal remote, the Monster Control 100 (Monster licenses its firmware/software from Logitech but provides its own support.) did not fully control the 983 with 981 settings - for one thing the Pause function did not work - I deleted the 981 from the control data base and established that I was using the 983. Bingo! The Pause and other functions work! (I haven't tested all of them nor do I need to do so since the luminous 983 remote is close by. :cool: )

Have a Good Day!

Dana

I'm having a problem with my "universal" remote. It's a remote for a PioElite 45tx AVR. I had to use the "learning" mode to get all the buttons learned that I need on a regular basis. It says "ok" (as in it learned the IR code). I went and turned "Alt RC code" to off (I did try with it on to use presets from the mnfg listed in the 983 manual, non worked). Now I have issues with some of the learned buttons on my universal. Just no response. It's wierd.

PS I've "relearned" the pause button and play several times... all saying "ok" for being learned each time but they don't get a response on the player. Batteries are fine so is angle, etc..

You're right. Sorry for my incorrect/outdated info on the "WIDE/AUTO" setting. The ABT chip handles the automatic pillarboxing with no loss of resolution. I have confirmed it and corrected my post. I was fully aware that the ABT chip did the pillarboxing when using the zoom button. It may have been an early beta that suffered loss of resolution when automatically pillarboxing with the "WIDE/AUTO" setting. Its not an issue anymore.

Gary


Question for those of you who own the 983. I am looking at getting a 9G Kuro this summer when released and a 983, moving my 43" Pioneer and Denon player into the bedroom system. I know this doesn't sit well with movie purist, but I like to fill the screen versus looking at 2.35:1 movies in the produced aspect ratio. Am I correct from what I have read that I will be able to upscale to 1080P, and zoom to fill the screen with no loss of resolution? Thanks for your input.

John

Question for those of you who own the 983. I am looking at getting a 9G Kuro this summer when released and a 983, moving my 43" Pioneer and Denon player into the bedroom system. I know this doesn't sit well with movie purist, but I like to fill the screen versus looking at 2.35:1 movies in the produced aspect ratio. Am I correct from what I have read that I will be able to upscale to 1080P, and zoom to fill the screen with no loss of resolution? Thanks for your input.

John
When you zoom to fit you are cutting off pixels on the sides, so you are effectively reducing the resolution.

When you zoom to fit you are cutting off pixels on the sides, so you are effectively reducing the resolution.

Thanks, yes I am aware of that. I guess I should have been a little more specific. Will I retain the same level of sharpness and clarity with the zoom function on the upscaled picture.

John

Thanks, yes I am aware of that. I guess I should have been a little more specific. Will I retain the same level of sharpness and clarity with the zoom function on the upscaled picture.

John
The zoom function in the 983 is about as good as they come, but you do lose sharpness and clarity when you zoom. If you are sitting at a normal distance from the display this will be noticeable with the kind of zoom you are describing.

The zoom function in the 983 is about as good as they come, but you do lose sharpness and clarity when you zoom. If you are sitting at a normal distance from the display this will be noticeable with the kind of zoom you are describing.

Thanks!

Much better! There have been several comparisons. Jeffhdz recently submitted this minireview (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13357573#post13357573). Per Jeffhdz "I would say the 983H does a better job processing DVD than the PS3. It handles more cadences, has less flickering, and less etching. Bad Edits handling is also better on the 983H. On the other hand, the PS3 can play Blu-ray and still does a very good job playing DVD, especially animations. I will keep both on my A/V rack, with the PS3 primarily for Blu-ray, and the 983H for the rest of round discs."

I think that is pretty much most people's gameplan, the Oppo 983H for SD-DVD's, and a good Blu-Ray player additionally.:)

If this is true I'm sold on the Oppo 983H as I am an owner of a PS3 that I bought for BR movies. I am primarly a movie renter then a buyer. Having said that have you ever tried to rent a BR movie on Blockbuster or Netflix?...i's next to impossible as there always a long wait. Ive even tried to rent BR movies at my local Blockbuster and when they do have a movie in BR theres only one and it's always rented out.

So it seems like the 983H makes alot of since for alot of people that rent movies as apposed to buying. I'm sure as time goes on there will more stocked BR for rent but as someone said alot of old movies will never be on BR so I see the the 983H as win , win situation.

i am thinking of getting the 983 and moving the 981 to my bedroom - i been reading that the 983 does fill the screen with nothing lost ? or do you loose some resolution ?

maybe i missed something - i read that it does - then it dosnt and now it does again -

i would like to fill my whole screen - but dont want to make the people look fat or stretch the look -

would the 983 keep it fill the screen and keep the PQ normal and not stretch looking faces etc. - ?

thanks

hi.
I haven't posted in a while but I just wanted to say that i will definitely be purchasing a 983 once they come back into stock on a regular basis.

I find it kind of funny that when comparing the 983 to other upscalers, the only one that gets mentioned as being close is the Toshiba HD-XA2 . how come no one mentions the Denon 2930 or the even higher scale Denon models? I have never owned one but for the money they charge they have to be good. right?

Actually I did own a Denon 1920 for a short time and was very frustrated on how it would choke on so many discs. i had to return it. The audio was excellent though.

I have had a Oppo 981 for a long time and have been so happy with it! However i must buy the 983 because i want the best Oppo possible. That is why I have never invested in Blu-Ray. I will never buy another dvd player again unless its an OPPO. I will not buy a Blu-ray player until OPPO comes out with theirs. I will not be a guinea pig for this new technology.

I have a Sony Sony KD-34XBR970 for a display and standard dvd's look amazing at 1080i (it dosen't do 1080p. Its a tube television. The last hi-def tube television sony made)

I really wish OPPPO would also make a AV Receiver. Now wouldn't that be the greatest thing ever!!

Looking forward to your responses.
Russ

i am thinking of getting the 983 and moving the 981 to my bedroom - i been reading that the 983 does fill the screen with nothing lost ? or do you loose some resolution ?

maybe i missed something - i read that it does - then it dosnt and now it does again -

i would like to fill my whole screen - but dont want to make the people look fat or stretch the look -

would the 983 keep it fill the screen and keep the PQ normal and not stretch looking faces etc. - ?

thanks

Yes, there are zoom modes on the 983 that eliminate black bars and retain the correct aspect ratio. This works for both 4:3 and 16:9 titles.

Losing resolution: well, you are clipping parts of the picture off the sides, so that counts as lost resolution. The remainder has to be zoomed a bit more, and zooming from SD-DVD is never as good as the original image, but I would say it is very good. As good as it can be.

-Bill

Is anyone planning on pre -ordering the 983 modification unit being sold on Audiogon for $1150.00?

Yes, there are zoom modes on the 983 that eliminate black bars and retain the correct aspect ratio. This works for both 4:3 and 16:9 titles.

Losing resolution: well, you are clipping parts of the picture off the sides, so that counts as lost resolution. The remainder has to be zoomed a bit more, and zooming from SD-DVD is never as good as the original image, but I would say it is very good. As good as it can be.

-Bill

This is what I thought I remembered from the older closed 983 thread. Thanks.

John

I find it kind of funny that when comparing the 983 to other upscalers, the only one that gets mentioned as being close is the Toshiba HD-XA2 . how come no one mentions the Denon 2930 or the even higher scale Denon models? I have never owned one but for the money they charge they have to be good. right? Expensive doesn't necessarily equate to better. The Denon 2930 has been mentioned here before (and in the previous thread), but not very often. The 983 is better. It scored higher than any of the Denons on the SECRETS DVD Benchmark, and the PQ is evidently just as good, if not better, than the Realta HQV processing in their higher-end 3930 and 5910 models. During testing, respected reviewers like Kris Deering certainly seemed to think the 983 is the best standalone DVD player for video performance. When you factor the cost into it as well, the 983 wins hands down.

Gary

Is there any cheaper place to pick up an oppo 983 besides Oppo's web site?

Is there any cheaper place to pick up an oppo 983 besides Oppo's web site?

Free shipping when you order from Amazon. But, no stock of the 983 at the moment.

Dana

Hi,
I was wondering if the Oppo 983h apart from dvd's ..... also upscales divx, video files through usb flash drive to high resolution ?. I have some 720P Rips Of Blu Ray how would those be displayed...

Although the DVD player can upscale DivX and XviD media, there is no native support for decoding files which have a resolution larger than 720x480 pixels. Your 720p BD rips will not playback on this player.

Best Regards,

Customer Service
OPPO Digital, Inc.
2629B Terminal Blvd.
Mountain View, CA 94043

Is anyone planning on pre -ordering the 983 modification unit being sold on Audiogon for $1150.00?

Thomas, where do you see this mod on Audiogon? Under what subject heading?

Jim Cate

Thomas, where do you see this mod on Audiogon? Under what subject heading?
Oppo Dv-983h Fully modified by ASi special price

no relation to seller, no knowledge of upgrade service.

I had the Denon 3910 and my OPPO 981's pq is as good or better and the OPPO's audio is much more intelligible. The 983 will most likely better Denon's best.

Oppo Dv-983h Fully modified by ASi special price


Save your money. It's a crock, IMO. As an engineer I can say they make an awful lot of claims with absolutely no objective measurements indicating any performance gains. I mean really, a cryo-treated power connector! Yeah, and monster cable is worth every penny, too.

Barnum was right.

Save your money. It's a crock, IMO. As an engineer I can say they make an awful lot of claims with absolutely no objective measurements indicating any performance gains. I mean really, a cryo-treated power connector! Yeah, and monster cable is worth every penny, too.

Barnum was right.


Asimov - Those people who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do!

Is anyone planning on pre -ordering the 983 modification unit being sold on Audiogon for $1150.00?

Let me guess - magic capacitors, "audiophile grade" power cord, a reference to "jitter reduction", etc.

JMO, but a fool and his money...

Having said that have you ever tried to rent a BR movie on Blockbuster or Netflix?...i's next to impossible as there always a long wait.

I haven't noticed this, the only movie I've watched recently that had a wait was No Country for Old Men on BD. Otherwise pretty much everything ships immediately, whether BD or SD. I did have to wait for Marie Antoinette (SD) a month or so ago.

I just checked my queue, and everything on it is available immediately except for AVP2, which releases on Apr 15. (BD) But it's halfway down my queue anyway. I have 14 BD's in the queue, 1 HD, 25 SD.

Have been a very happy Oppo 981 owner since it was released and just wanted to add my thanks to GSB, Neuromancer, Gonk, et al for all their effort on the 983 as I am waiting for my rebate check to buy this player and have thus been reading this thread diligently to keep up-to-date.

p.s. I just want to add that every time I requested a firmware update disc from Oppo for the 981, I received it withing 3-4 days, followed the simple instructions, and have never had a problem.

I'm trying to get the IRS to directly deposit my rebate check to Oppo as we speak! :D

expresso712, not sure what you are asking. If you are comparing the 983 for SD-dvd playback, to a BR player for SD-dvd playback, then the 983 wins. The only thing that comes close to the 983 is the Toshiba HD-XA2 HD-DVD player.
For many, many people, they have amassed hundreds or even thousands of dvds in their library. In order to view those movies in the best possible way, they have chosen the 983. To date, no BR player can play SD-dvds better than the 983. That is, unless your BR player can output 480i to an expensive external processor/scaler which would cost much more than just a stand alone player like the 983.
Just curious how does the 981 and the 983 compare VS the Marantz(s) DV-9500, 9600? I know a guy who thinks both of those Marantz players are the cat's meow.
Thnx

Just curious how does the 981 and the 983 compare VS the Marantz(s) DV-9500, 9600? I know a guy who thinks both of those Marantz players are the cat's meow.
Thnx

In the Secrets benchmark tests, the 9600 scored 92 and the 9500 78 - 82. http://69.64.68.156/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=all&type=&manufacturer=23&maxprice=0&deInt=0&mpeg=0

When you see your friend the next time, tell him that the 983 scored a perfect 100. ;)

Dana

In the Secrets benchmark tests, the 9600 scored 92 and the 9500 78 - 82. http://69.64.68.156/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=all&type=&manufacturer=23&maxprice=0&deInt=0&mpeg=0

When you see your friend the next time, tell him that the 983 scored a perfect 100. ;)

Dana
You can't mess with numbers let alone a perfect score;)
Thanks

Let me guess - magic capacitors, "audiophile grade" power cord, a reference to "jitter reduction", etc.

JMO, but a fool and his money...

Please reread post# 912!

Keep your 981. I did, because the 983 sounds too "digital' and metallic. I sent it back.

Please reread post# 912!

You quoted post 912:confused:

You probably meant your snappy comeback in post 911:)

Keep your 981. I did, because the 983 sounds too "digital' and metallic. I sent it back.

too "digital' and metallic ? You must be kidding! :rolleyes:

Sometimes new products need break-in, perhaps that's the case here? We know the 983's audio quality isn't going to be tremendously different from the 980, 981, and is most likely slightly improved.

Remember, everbody is entitled to their opinions, but nobody here is entitled to comment on the poster stating their opinions. Doing that puts you on the same level (sometimes lower) as the poster with which you disagree. Let's stick to debating opinions and not making personal comments not matter how "innocent" you think they may be. Most of the time the best thing to do is not post - which is the hardest thing to do for most people and very few people at AVS have mastered the technique. :)

larry

Keep your 981. I did, because the 983 sounds too "digital' and metallic. I sent it back.

Every new electronic needs to break in for many hours. First time I turned it on, I was not impressed by its sound (and I can agree with you, it was not so "musical"), but my 983 is improving every day. I like it.

Every new electronic needs to break in for many hours. First time I turned it on, I was not impressed by its sound (and I can agree with you, it was not so "musical"), but my 983 is improving every day. I like it.

That is an interesting opinion and one I have read many times. Is there some actual testing that confirms this, not just picking on you m.m BTW.

I find it hard to believe that chipset, capacitors and audio circuitry changes for the better with time, and if I'm wrong what exactly goes with the circuitry over time that causes this improvement. Could it be all in the end-users brain?

Been using the Oppo for a while now, absolutely amazed at the improvement in load speeds over my DVD-S2500. Can't complain about this system at all. I've noticed one or two dropouts on dvd's. I noticed it on Happy Feet, it's just a flash of black out every once in a while. I figure the firmware upgrade will fix it when it's released.

That said, I wanted to address the recent topic that hikinoke had regarding firmware upgrades.. one thing no one discussed was his concern that Oppo said it's possible that the upgrade could screw up the system if you did it wrong, etc. etc.... For those not familiar with firmware upgrades, this is a standard disclaimer that ALL system manufacturers make. I run a large healthcare datacenter and the teams that run the systems, and we do these upgrades all the time.
99.9999% of the time, your upgrade will be fine. The reason they make this disclaimer are for 2 reasons... if you are doing the upgrade, you are warned not to remove power to the system because doing so while the upgrade is 50% done, will likely render your system useless. Now, while you wouldn't do this intentionally, no one can predict when lightning will hit a pole, or a car will take out a pole, or a squirrel will hop on a transformer... If you do the upgrade on any day NOT in the middle of a lightning storm with your power already flickering.. you're probably ok.
Another issue I've seen, once in 15 years.. was that a firmware upgrade to a Dell system killed it. The firmware upgrade was like 65K in size (or whatever it was) and all previous upgrades were like 40, then 45, 50, 55K.. finally it got to a certain size.. where it went from one "programmable block" on the chip, to the next one... and that "next one" was actually corrupt or broken or just not right. It was a chip defect. The system was fine every time before because the upgrade never touched that next block. Once it got big enough that it needed to, the system died. This was just a problem with this system only.. and was a manufacturing defect. Never seen it before or since.

ANYWAY... upgrades are usually easy and there's no concern. They just have to make the disclaimer that if you drop the jump drive/flash drive/usb drive in.. and are doing the upgrade, and your 2-year old pulls it out and puts it back in while it's upgrading.. you might kill your system.
And I guess there's always that odd .000000001% chance something happens that no one thought about. But really, firmware upgrades are nothing to worry about or be concerned about. The scary verbage of "this could kill your system" is just like saying if you ingest too much toothpaste, you need to call the poison control board. In the odd chance you eat an entire tube... yeah, probably bad.

brianhahne,

Good points. I have successfully updated the firmware on the two OPPO players I have owned - the 971 and the 981 - and my BD10 Blu-ray player several times. But, unanticipated power interruptions are not uncommon here (even in fair summer weather!) so I invested in an inexpensive battery backup UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) that will support both players long enough to complete any firmware updates and then gracefully shutdown. I have a similar device on my computer since software updates are frequent and having a crash in the midst of one is not good.

Dana

I hear what y'all are saying and will have thumb drive and knowledge in hand when/if I order another 983. Have seen a few people here and there reporting the dropouts but nothing concrete on what is causing them or possible fixes. I'm sure Oppo is working hard on the problem and will have it fixed soon.

Sometimes new products need break-in, perhaps that's the case here? We know the 983's audio quality isn't going to be tremendously different from the 980, 981, and is most likely slightly improved.Exactly.

Kal,
When will we see your review of the 983?

Kal,
When will we see your review of the 983?Not a full review, of course, but it will appear in the May issue.

Is anybody using a 983 with the Sony KDS60A3000. I seem to remember a review that the Sony had difficulty with a 1080p60 signal.

Don't know about the "A" series (RP LCD SXRD models right?) but the XBR4 LCD flat panels love the 1080p60 signal from a 983!

BTW Pirates of the carribean II and III both look absolutely amazing. I can't believe the ending of III was never spoiled for me... waiting this long (due to waiting on 983) to watch it.

Yes, it is the rearpro SXRD. It does have a 120hz refresh rate, but I don't know if it has the same processing software as the XBR4 LCD.

Can someone show me an article or test that shows a DVD/CD player needs to be broke in. This keeps getting mentioned and I'm curious why this is. I would like to know, because if this is true and I'm not happy with the sound of a player how long should I wait for the player to break-in?

Most people are old analog pros. Analog equipment traditionally needed some burn-in time before they started to sound "sweet".

Just leave the player on for 100 hours looping a CD. You may want to physically connect an analog audio cable to there is a draw of power through it.

While I'm still waiting for the official arrival of the 983 in my Country , I'm using my 980 to listen to stereo music ( 980 , van den Hull RCA interconnects & Rega MIRA 3 integrated amp ) .
Perhaps I'm a little heretic , but I can say that I really don't miss my CDP ( Rega Planet 2000 ) which has been replaced by OPPO 980 .
Well , as it is said that 983's audio is even better ...

newtr1 - I am using the Oppo 983HD connected to my Yamaha RX-V2700 (via HDMI) and then HDMI out to my Sony KDS-60A2000.
I don't know about the 3000... but I have the 983 set to upconvert to 1080p on this unit. I have no issues at all. The picture is amazing. An older DVD (The Land Before Time) looked good but not spectacular.. but I think that's the video itself.
Dave Matthews/Tim Reynolds recent DVD which I have in SD, I think it's from Radio City Music Hall.. looked INCREDIBLE. It wasn't quite blu-ray quality of course.. but it looked darn close. I was very very impressed.

There's going to be about a ~2 month wait for this player if you don't have a preorder locked in yet, and possibly also if you're not towards the top of the preorder list. Citing a bottleneck due to the limited supply of the ABT102 chipset, only a limited number of units will be available next week, and I gather these will all be allocated to existing preorders.

More waiting..........

And speaking of pre-orders - Oppo just ermailed me to let me know that the 983s ARE BACK IN STOCK! W00t!! I placed my order immediately, should have the unit in my hands in about 10 days - w00 h00!

-RW-

Yep, just got mine as well. I'm really looking forward to having this thing delivered. :cool:

I guess they did their preorders by just getting an e-mail and sending these people an e-mail notification when they were available so they can order first come first served. They won't last, so order fast!!

Most people are old analog pros. Analog equipment traditionally needed some burn-in time before they started to sound "sweet".Or, at least, many thought so.

There's going to be about a ~2 month wait for this player if you don't have a preorder locked in yet, and possibly also if you're not towards the top of the preorder list. Citing a bottleneck due to the limited supply of the ABT102 chipset, only a limited number of units will be available next week, and I gather these will all be allocated to existing preorders.

More waiting..........

And the source of this info is?

And are you speaking with reference to Canada only?

Dana

Or, at least, many thought so.

That is why I used "quotes". I am personally one of those ungifted fools who can't tell the difference between a two dollar cable and a thousand dollar cable.

The source is the president of Oppo. His words from an e-mail sent directly to me was that they have more preorders than even they can fulfill.

Smoke screen.

Smoke screen.

Perhaps...we'll see what happens. This is just what I've been told.

:D LOL Smoke screen.

Got mine on order. Should be here next week. Waiting....Waiting....Waiting....

Is there any cheaper place to pick up an oppo 983 besides Oppo's web site?

C'mon now, Shipping is not much. $14.00 to Oklahoma. And all the monies go to the guys that put this thing together. They don't have to sell cheaper to Amazon, or give them a cut or however they do it. And besides, Amazon does not support this informative site do they??? But OPPO does! Bite the bullet & get one direct.

Availability: Temporarily sold out. :(

That is why I used "quotes". I am personally one of those ungifted fools who can't tell the difference between a two dollar cable and a thousand dollar cable.

You're in good company. Secrets ran a test some time ago of high end vs. low end cables, inviting some certified audiophiles to participate in a blind test. They couldn't tell the difference either. :)

Dana

Brianhahne,

Thanks for your feedback. I think the A3000 has different sw than the A2000 and handles input differently due to the 120hz refresh.

Someone out there must be using a Sony A3000 with a 983??

Availability: Temporarily sold out. :(

Availability: LIMITED - While Supplies Last. Only 1 unit per customer.
If you got the email

Yippeee! Just snagged my 983h.

God, I hope this thing really does look better than the upconvert on my
HD-A35. I couldn't help buying into the hype.

I'm also looking forward to seeing what it does with my digital pics.

Can I ask a dumb question? Of course I can.

I've got the original Apex AD-600A with the loophole. One of the options you could set was no region, but some R1 discs would refuse to play unless the player was explicitly set to R1. Would something like that be an issue here?

Choosing Fools Day for the "preorder" email was somewhat peculiar, and it took a long
wait to finish the first step of my order (my name, address, etc.), but it worked.
I gave the AVS credit for "discovering" the new Oppo player.

Btw., we will be getting free merchandise from IRS according to "Market Report" radio
show instead of cash to make sure we actually stimulate the economy.
Young couple from Arizona received an air conditioner instead of a Treasury check.
We should be getting Oppo products instead! Anybody in favor?

That was April Fools joke of course, but it caught me "off guard" for a few seconds...

Mike

Can I ask a dumb question? Of course I can.

I've got the original Apex AD-600A with the loophole. One of the options you could set was no region, but some R1 discs would refuse to play unless the player was explicitly set to R1. Would something like that be an issue here?

I've never encountered that on any of the Oppos. I always leave the players set at region 0.

-Bill

And speaking of pre-orders - Oppo just ermailed me to let me know that the 983s ARE BACK IN STOCK! W00t!! I placed my order immediately, should have the unit in my hands in about 10 days - w00 h00!

-RW-

Yep, just got mine as well. I'm really looking forward to having this thing delivered. :cool:

Got mine on order. Should be here next week. Waiting....Waiting....Waiting....

Yippeee! Just snagged my 983h.

God, I hope this thing really does look better than the upconvert on my
HD-A35. I couldn't help buying into the hype.

I'm also looking forward to seeing what it does with my digital pics.

X5. I blew my first pre-order of the 983 when I cancled my 980 order and though that they were going to do the switcheroo for me. The dummy I am I misread the email that said I was supposed to place a new order in it's place.

Got the email earlier, but just ordered it now. Should have it by next week. Yippie!!!

Someone out there must be using a Sony A3000 with a 983??

I will sometime next week. :)

By the way, the A3000 has no issues with 1080p/60 (or 24 for that matter). Before the firmware update, some 1080i resolution was being filtered, but no longer an issue.

hi.
I haven't posted in a while but I just wanted to say that i will definitely be purchasing a 983 once they come back into stock on a regular basis.

I find it kind of funny that when comparing the 983 to other upscalers, the only one that gets mentioned as being close is the Toshiba HD-XA2 . how come no one mentions the Denon 2930 or the even higher scale Denon models? I have never owned one but for the money they charge they have to be good. right?

Actually I did own a Denon 1920 for a short time and was very frustrated on how it would choke on so many discs. i had to return it. The audio was excellent though.

I have had a Oppo 981 for a long time and have been so happy with it! However i must buy the 983 because i want the best Oppo possible. That is why I have never invested in Blu-Ray. I will never buy another dvd player again unless its an OPPO. I will not buy a Blu-ray player until OPPO comes out with theirs. I will not be a guinea pig for this new technology.

I have a Sony Sony KD-34XBR970 for a display and standard dvd's look amazing at 1080i (it dosen't do 1080p. Its a tube television. The last hi-def tube television sony made)

I really wish OPPPO would also make a AV Receiver. Now wouldn't that be the greatest thing ever!!

Looking forward to your responses.
Russ

hi.
I haven't posted in a while but I just wanted to say that i will definitely be purchasing a 983 once they come back into stock on a regular basis.

I find it kind of funny that when comparing the 983 to other upscalers, the only one that gets mentioned as being close is the Toshiba HD-XA2 . how come no one mentions the Denon 2930 or the even higher scale Denon models? I have never owned one but for the money they charge they have to be good. right?

Actually I did own a Denon 1920 for a short time and was very frustrated on how it would choke on so many discs. i had to return it. The audio was excellent though.

I have had a Oppo 981 for a long time and have been so happy with it! However i must buy the 983 because i want the best Oppo possible. That is why I have never invested in Blu-Ray. I will never buy another dvd player again unless its an OPPO. I will not buy a Blu-ray player until OPPO comes out with theirs. I will not be a guinea pig for this new technology.

I have a Sony Sony KD-34XBR970 for a display and standard dvd's look amazing at 1080i (it dosen't do 1080p. Its a tube television. The last hi-def tube television sony made)

I really wish OPPPO would also make a AV Receiver. Now wouldn't that be the greatest thing ever!!

Looking forward to your responses.
Russ

I find it kind of funny that when comparing the 983 to other upscalers, the only one that gets mentioned as being close is the Toshiba HD-XA2 . how come no one mentions the Denon 2930 or the even higher scale Denon models? I have never owned one but for the money they charge they have to be good. right?



I used to own a Denon 2930CI and once demo'd a 3930CI, however, that was when I had my previous 57" CRT RPTV display - not my current SXRD 60A3000 so it will be hard for me to do a valid comparison to the 983. I will say both Denon units were outstanding.

Not a full review, of course, but it will appear in the May issue.

Kal is this review confirm to be out in May? :)

It is not a review, but a little writeup.

hi.
I haven't posted in a while but I just wanted to say that i will definitely be purchasing a 983 once they come back into stock on a regular basis.

I find it kind of funny that when comparing the 983 to other upscalers, the only one that gets mentioned as being close is the Toshiba HD-XA2 . how come no one mentions the Denon 2930 or the even higher scale Denon models? I have never owned one but for the money they charge they have to be good. right?

Actually I did own a Denon 1920 for a short time and was very frustrated on how it would choke on so many discs. i had to return it. The audio was excellent though.

I have had a Oppo 981 for a long time and have been so happy with it! However i must buy the 983 because i want the best Oppo possible. That is why I have never invested in Blu-Ray. I will never buy another dvd player again unless its an OPPO. I will not buy a Blu-ray player until OPPO comes out with theirs. I will not be a guinea pig for this new technology.

I have a Sony Sony KD-34XBR970 for a display and standard dvd's look amazing at 1080i (it dosen't do 1080p. Its a tube television. The last hi-def tube television sony made)

I really wish OPPPO would also make a AV Receiver. Now wouldn't that be the greatest thing ever!!

Looking forward to your responses.
Russ

The best suggestion I can offer is to click on the "BUY" button on the Oppo site where you will then be directed by Oppo to register for their email alert when units will become available. I received such an alert but do not have the money to buy yet. I am honoring Oppo's request not to share further info in the alert email with anyone else as they want to sell the units on a first come, first serve basis via the email registration.

Brianhahne,

Thanks for your feedback. I think the A3000 has different sw than the A2000 and handles input differently due to the 120hz refresh.

Someone out there must be using a Sony A3000 with a 983??

I am. It looks quite nice :)

My biggest complaint about the A3000 is the horrible overscan, so the 983 underscan feature is very nice.

Is there something specific that you would like to know? I haven't noticed any problems yet.

The odd time i read about SDI modded players and how this is or was the best way to get a good clean image on your display,so would there be any advantage to getting a 983 SDI'd or does it's HDMI output make SDI obsolete? TIA

The odd time i read about SDI modded players and how this is or was the best way to get a good clean image on your display,so would there be any advantage to getting a 983 SDI'd or does it's HDMI output make SDI obsolete? TIA

You'd want to start with a different player. No point in paying for ABT deinterlacing and scaling if you are not going to use it.

-Bill

The odd time i read about SDI modded players and how this is or was the best way to get a good clean image on your display,so would there be any advantage to getting a 983 SDI'd or does it's HDMI output make SDI obsolete? To add to Bill's comment, a player like the 983, with HDMI output and ABT deinterlacing+scaling, pretty much makes SDI modding obsolete.

Gary

hi.
I haven't posted in a while but I just wanted to say that i will definitely be purchasing a 983 once they come back into stock on a regular basis...

Looking forward to your responses.
Russ Russ, this is the THIRD time you've posted exactly the same message. Did you see the response here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13514773#post13514773)?

Gary

Just got an anamorphic widescreen R4 !THREE AMIGOS! (Martin, Chase, and Short) dvd and set player to region 0. It is playing but it is not being framed properly...left side is maybe getting chopped off and top, bottom, and right side have a ~1" black bar (on a 40" xbr4). Full screen zoom option zooms in too far. Ugh.

Try changing your output resolutions and see if a lower resolution does not resolve the picture properly.

Are you sending it out as PAL or NTSC?

NTSC. 1080i on underscan is the same as 720p and 1080p on 1:1. 480p on 1:1 looks like its the wrong aspect ration as well. Weird.

Actually the top and bottom bars might be ok due to aspect ratio of film, maybe its just shifted to the left by ~3/4".

Just got an anamorphic widescreen R4 !THREE AMIGOS!

It is playing but it is not being framed properly...left side is maybe getting chopped off and top, bottom, and right side have a ~1" black bar Top and bottom bars are probably on the DVD. As for the sides... my Region 1 version of this DVD also has a black stripe (on one or both sides) - its encoded that way on the disk. Even more annoying - the movie frame oscillates slowly from side to side as though the film master was not properly registered in the digital scanner! That has nothing to do with the player.

Check it on your PC, or in another player. I'll check mine again tonight.

Gary

Oh you're correct. Bars on top and bottom and right show up in vlc too. So I guess it is just the disc. Sorry for the scare there. :rolleyes: Man this sucks... Does anyone know if the region 2 disc has this framing problem?

Availability: LIMITED - While Supplies Last. Only 1 unit per customer.
If you got the email
Got my email April 1st 4:07 p.m., responded a few minutes later. Availability was for the second week of April. Upgraded to 2 day so I would have it by next weekend assuming it shipped by Wednesday. Today at 8:44 P.m. received the email it shipped and is scheduled for delivery April 4th. Getting it before the weekend, just a week early..... Yahooooooooooo!

Does Any body has the picture of the 983 inside?

david,just got my 983 and was curious about your 1080i FW update comment.what update r u refering to. is this something i should be concerned about. also have the sony a3000... thanks. george h.

Does Any body has the picture of the 983 inside?
Yes, I have a few in my review (http://www.prillaman.net/oppo983_review.html).

Hi all,

Still waiting for this to show up in Canada.

SolutionsAV.ca has it listed for second week of this month delayed from last week of last month and thats the last I heard from them.

Actually, this post is just so that I can MAYBE get post #983 for the 983.

Hope this works.

Sorry I got post #983 :)

How can you be so callous to take my one shot at glory away from me??? ;)

<Insert 21 gun salute here>
A numerical and very nerdy milestone has been passed in this thread.

For thread moderators, please keep in mind that I still dont have a player so I need every bit of joy I can get and, right now, this is it. :D

Placed my order for the 983H today. I cannot wait to get it and watch some DVDS

I played my 983H with music for 2 hours and then a movie. When i turn it off by hand i noticed it was pretty warm. it is free standing-with plenty of space on all sides. My previous 970 never got this warm. I suspect it's because this is more powerful player with a larger power supply and components. right.

*** I re-looked at this. I played just a movie last night. Afterwords it was just a tiny bit warm-normal-.
I'll see if it gets warm after playing music-loud. Great player.....

I played my 983H with music for 2 hours and then a movie. When i turn it off by hand i noticed it was pretty warm. it is free standing-with plenty of space on all sides. My previous 970 never got this warm. I suspect it's because this is more powerful player with a larger power supply and components. right.

That's because the 983 is nuclear powered.:D

I played my 983H with music for 2 hours and then a movie. When i turn it off by hand i noticed it was pretty warm. it is free standing-with plenty of space on all sides. My previous 970 never got this warm. I suspect it's because this is more powerful player with a larger power supply and components. right.

I noticed mine was a little warm too but I don't think that is what caused the video dropout problems.

The DV-983H produces more heat than the previous players, especially when you add into account the metal which encases the power supply.

I noticed mine was a little warm too but I don't think that is what caused the video dropout problems.
I'm not really sure how your past issue is even relevant to his post


Yeah the beta I have is also warm after extended use.

1) When you select "Down-Mix 7.1" - what processing is the 983 using to create the surround back channels from 5.1 material?

2) What is the crossover Oppo uses to designate Small/Large? 80Hz?

3) The controls say ProLogic II, but do they really mean PLIIx?

4) If you use the Channel Trim adjustment, does that also impact the HDMI raw output, or only analog?

5) If you use the Channel Delay adjustment, does that also impact the HDMI raw output, or only analog?

1. The D/AC is using a special DSP to matrix the surround back channels from the surround channels (5.1) or front speakers (2.0).

2. The crossover is set to 80Hz.

3. Yes.

4. Channel Delay, Distances, Trim, and Speaker sizes only effect the analog outputs and any PCM signal. A raw digital signal over S/PDIF and HDMI will not be effected by these settings.

Thanks for the reply, Neuromancer!

Would you say the DSP used to "Down-Mix" 5.1 to 7.1 (boy that sounds strange to say!) is of any better quality than generic PLIIx? Am I also to assume that the DSP creates the two extra speakers in stereo, as opposed to the dual-mono that it does for 6.1?

Lastly, does the "Down-Mix" setting impact HDMI output as well? I believe the manual said it does, however it also says that 7.1 is only available through the analog inputs. I'm just a single customer, but I'd greatly prefer if the "Down-Mix" only affected analog. (That way for hi-fi music I could have my analog 7.1, but use my AVR's processing for DD/DTS movies via HDMI)

As a bit of information - my Onkyo 705 seems to have some difficulty in locking down the HDMI signal when I have it set to "Down-Mix 7.1" in the Oppo menu. Most noticeably this has happened on 5.1 SACD discs. Once it locks the signal down, everything is fine. However the initial negotiation sometimes fails.

http://www.hdtvexpert.com/pages_c/OPPO_DV-983H.html

The Reon in the Mitsubishi HC6000 1080p LCD projector seems to hold its own vs. the 983, and bests it in some jaggies test.

I have the 983 and the Denon 2930 and don't see any differences between them on a 6010 or 4280.

Has anyone had to use the Digital audio delay setting (I assume this works with SPDIF output) for A/V sync?

I've left it as default (no adjustment) and I've had to "adjust" to the A/V being alot more insync than my old player. After a few more movies I can watch for the need of the smallest adjustment (or not).

Just wondering if anyone has used this nice feature (god knows my old player needed major A/V sync adjustment and didn't have the control).

http://www.hdtvexpert.com/pages_c/OPPO_DV-983H.html

The Reon in the Mitsubishi HC6000 1080p LCD projector seems to hold its own vs. the 983, and bests it in some jaggies test.

I have the 983 and the Denon 2930 and don't see any differences between them on a 6010 or 4280.Just got my 983 and tested on a few disks and found a nice improvement over my 980 and A-35. (Check my profile for equipment list if interested) It's too early to tell if it's worth the extra money or not so will need to live with it at least a week to make that call. I think this is what most of us need to do if on the fence. Reviews can't be the deciding factor as everyone has a different expectation and the displays and equipment is so varied who can tell by numbered specs and other folks reviews or opinions. As a few have pointed out, if you don't have much of a SD DVD library Blu-ray would be a better choice if you need the best quality, but if not affordable the best bang for the buck would be to stay with a display under 40" and the 981, 980 and most any good DVD player will look great to most folks.

I'm primarily interested in Audio performance and I wonder if the 983 would be much of an upgrade from what I have now. I currently own a Denon 1920. The one thing I dislike about the Denon is not being able to play SACD via HDMI.

I don't really care about video quality. I don't have a large collection of DVDs and I haven't rented any in over two years. I have a ton of CDs, and a small collection of SACD & DVD-A discs. Should I be looking elsewhere if I want to hear a major difference?

Would you say the DSP used to "Down-Mix" 5.1 to 7.1 (boy that sounds strange to say!) is of any better quality than generic PLIIx?

If you do not have a receiver which can do 7.1 matrixing, then the DVD player itself will do a better job for this kind of application.

The audio difference between PLIIx and discrete 7.1 will be marginal in most cases, since both are inferring information from the original discrete channel source.

Lastly, does the "Down-Mix" setting impact HDMI output as well?

The HDMI output will be effected by the DownMix if you are sending a PCM signal over HDMI. So DVD-Audio and SACD media will be effected by your DownMix settings.

I recommend using 5.1 as the DownMix and doing any additional channel matrixing in your receiver if at all possible.

3) The controls say ProLogic II, but do they really mean PLIIx?


3. Yes.

Actually, no, they mean Pro Logic II (generating 5.0 from a 2.0 source), not Pro Logic IIx (generating up to 7.0 from a 2.0 source or 7.1 from a 5.1 source). The Mediatek chip doesn't have the processing power to do PLIIx. That is why when using downmix=7.1, the rear surrounds are generated from a 5.1 signal using a more basic matrix processing scheme.

You are correct. That is what I get for posting late at night again.