bakpakv, I believe turning on "Truelife" will fix this.

I am beginning to suspect that when Truelife is OFF, the NR circuit defaults to LOW, even though the menu says it's OFF.

With the following two settings, the image retention/ghosting performance is 100% IDENTICAL:
Truelife OFF, NR OFF
Truelife ON, NR LOWWith Truelife ON, and NR OFF, the problem goes away.

Some snappy-action scenes in "Stealth" and "Finding Nemo" suffer quite badly with this problem until you turn on Truelife.

Anyone else care to check this and see what you think?

The main reason we recommend turning Truelife OFF, is because it can reduce macroblocking quite dramatically - if your display suffers with that affliction.

Gary

This is exactly what I have noticed. Because I get some macroblocking with Truelife on, I wanted to turn it off, but that caused the retention issue, and did weird things with black level. In fact, I couldn't properly set black level with Avia with Truelife off. I rolled back to the 1022 firmware and it solved the black level issue. Now I can turn Truelife off without the retention problems.

Does one subtract the center, surround, and subwoofer distances from the front distance?

This would yield, in my case.

Center: 7-6= 1 ft
Surround Left: 7-4 = 3ft
Surround Right: 7-4= 3 ft
Subwoofer: 7-7=0ft.

Is this correct?

I don't know if it was this thread or the other, but you can probably find some posts by me and the member replies regarding this problem. This system was a very poor choice by OPPO. I may still be confused, but I don't think you have it correct as explained. I thought it was the other way around. I thought the idea was to make your L+R distance point 0, meaning you would subtract this value from your other measurements. In other words,

center=6-7= -1
surround = 4-7= -3

because they are one foot and three feet closer than the mains, respectively. You now have the same problem that I did. There is no option for negative values! It's impossible to set up correctly. Note: my "understanding" is based on dialog with Oppo CS over email and responses on this forum.

I don't know if it was this thread or the other, but you can probably find some posts by me and the member replies regarding this problem. This system was a very poor choice by OPPO. I may still be confused, but I don't think you have it correct as explained. I thought it was the other way around. I thought the idea was to make your L+R distance point 0, meaning you would subtract this value from your other measurements. In other words,

center=6-7= -1
surround = 4-7= -3

because they are one foot and three feet closer than the mains, respectively. You now have the same problem that I did. There is no option for negative values! It's impossible to set up correctly. Note: my "understanding" is based on dialog with Oppo CS over email and responses on this forum.

I think jerwin and Gary have it correct, as far as I understand it. jerwin's center is 1 foot closer to him than his mains, so he needs an extra delay of 1 foot (which will make the center seem 12 inches farther away). His surrounds are 3 feet closer to his listening position than the mains, so they need a 3 foot delay, and so on.

I'll say Brett Miles is right. The speaker distances are based on the front speakers. Unfortunately, most speaker setups have the rear speakers closer to the listener than the front speakers (out of convenience), which means that the speaker delay settings on the OPDV971H are useless, as there is no negative setting.

For instance, if your speakers are:

Center: 50
Front: 50
Rear: 100

Then you will need to set the Center and Front to "0", and the Rear to "50". If this is the case, then you would need negative settings for most audio applications.

However, in the manual, it stipulates that the distances are related to the listening position and the speakers (most likely just the front, as you are unable to change its delay settings). This would make much more sense, as the rear speakers are closer to the listener than the front speakers (which is normally the case) you would want to delay the audio in these speakers.

Question:

Can you either setup the speaker parameters in the Oppo OR your receiver?

I don't know if it was this thread or the other, but you can probably find some posts by me and the member replies regarding this problem. This system was a very poor choice by OPPO. I may still be confused, but I don't think you have it correct as explained. I thought it was the other way around. I thought the idea was to make your L+R distance point 0, meaning you would subtract this value from your other measurements. In other words,

center=6-7= -1
surround = 4-7= -3

because they are one foot and three feet closer than the mains, respectively. You now have the same problem that I did. There is no option for negative values! It's impossible to set up correctly. Note: my "understanding" is based on dialog with Oppo CS over email and responses on this forum.

I think the reason they use speaker distance in foot vs. the millisecond is because that is the rough estimate of speed of sound. It's about 1foot/1milisecond, so the sound delay setting can be directly related to the distance in # of foot.

Anyway, you do want to use your L+R speaker distance as 0 point and you want to make sure once the speaker starts creating sound you can hear the same synchronized sound from all the speakers from the listening distance as a calibration point... so.... if your center speaker is closer than the L+R, then you would want to add "+" delay time to center to sync with L+R. and same rule applies to SR+SL.

Can you either setup the speaker parameters in the Oppo OR your receiver?


Not in my case. I just have a Onkyo 502-- which doesn't allow the user to tweak the multichannel input. In any case, the 502 only has 96khz/24bit DACs/ADCs, which would probably end up mutilating the hi resolution audio-- the "Direct" mode (which bypasses all the DSPs) is less noisy. So, all the DVD-A processing must be done in the DVD-Audio player.

For Dolby digital and dts, I let my Onkyo handle all the bass and speaker management.

As for the speaker distance thing, I just don't know. It would seem that fronts are usually placed colinear with the center, making the center speaker slightly closer to the listener than the mains, and dolby's placement diagram suggests that the surrounds are closer than the mains (http://www.dolby.com/consumer/home_entertainment/roomlayout.html).

I just picked up a Phillips 30pw9110d with an HDMI connection. I am not getting any picture from the Oppo through the DVI out. What could be the problem...in a quick way? Do I need to go back to component for setup?

I have looked for No PIctures problems, but not found any posts on it.

Addendum...found out that my TV is only accepting 480P over HDMI. Is there a way to get a CRT to accept the 1080i when it can handle it?

jedurocher,

My Sony 34XBR910 direct view CRT with DVI is 1080i capable. You just connect the Oppo up via DVI. Voila!

Dana

jedurocher,

My Sony 34XBR910 direct view CRT with DVI is 1080i capable. You just connect the Oppo up via DVI. Voila!

Dana

I have an HDMI input on my TV. I run the DVI output on the Oppo using the cable that they sent to the HDMI input on my TV and, unfortunately....Voila, Nothing :( I hope it is a setting. I am not looking forward to having to take the tv back down the stairs of my house.

I have an HDMI input on my TV. I run the DVI output on the Oppo using the cable that they sent to the HDMI input on my TV and, unfortunately....Voila, Nothing :( I hope it is a setting. I am not looking forward to having to take the tv back down the stairs of my house.

I had the same problem when I first tried to connect the Oppo to my Sony SXRD.

You have to be sure that the DVI output is set to a setting that your TV will recognize. With the player stopped, click on the DVI button on the remote until an appropriate setting is displayed (e.g., 1080i). The picture will then appear.

bakpakv, I believe turning on "Truelife" will fix this.

I am beginning to suspect that when Truelife is OFF, the NR circuit defaults to LOW, even though the menu says it's OFF.

With the following two settings, the image retention/ghosting performance is 100% IDENTICAL:
Truelife OFF, NR OFF
Truelife ON, NR LOWWith Truelife ON, and NR OFF, the problem goes away.

Some snappy-action scenes in "Stealth" and "Finding Nemo" suffer quite badly with this problem until you turn on Truelife.

Anyone else care to check this and see what you think?

The main reason we recommend turning Truelife OFF, is because it can reduce macroblocking quite dramatically - if your display suffers with that affliction.

Gary


This definitely makes sense: I played around with this on Hitchcock's The Trouble With Harry, and turning true life off stopped the kind of ghosting associated with NR being on. I can't say I've noticed it that often, though. Must be another of those disc specific problems.

But hows this for a new conundrum, Gary: with truelife set to on macroblocking is actually elminated in certain discs--well, one that I tested (Heimat 3, a beautifully sharp PAL r2 disc from AE). The macroblock enhance happened in a number of black and white scenes, it was small but still distracting, but with truefile on it went away completely!

I obviously went and tested a few other discs. The pan/zoom up to Mt Doom in the 'Prologue' to Fellowship EE was made worse by having trulife on. Two other discs were, if anything either slightly better with it on or no real difference at all. I'm going to leave it on for a few movies and see if it annoys/improves .

Another mystery to add to the oppo pot.

I also hooked up the components from the mediatek to the ae700 to test the MB before it passed to through the faroudja chip--boy, is that a rough picture! Absolutely terrible; it's like going back to VHS. It still sometimes showed some MB though, which suggests enhance is going on.

Dave

I had the same problem when I first tried to connect the Oppo to my Sony SXRD.

You have to be sure that the DVI output is set to a setting that your TV will recognize. With the player stopped, click on the DVI button on the remote until an appropriate setting is displayed (e.g., 1080i). The picture will then appear.


The big problem is that it is not. I know that CRTs do not recognize 720p and there is a guy in the thread for my TV with an OPPO that is not having this problem. He states it is working just fine. Not sure if it is the TV or the player. I did do what you stated and all that shows up is 480p. I hope that the Phillips is not a TV that has problems with OPPO input. I will try to call their customer service too.

Thanks:)

As I've seen this with TrueLife and NR OFF, I'll take a look using the other combos. FYI, as of this point, I've yet to see Macroblocking.

Doug
Did not really do the test last night, as with my existing config (TrueLife and NR OFF), the Oppo did not duplicate the ghosting/retention behavior I noticed previously, either with a scene that fades to black or with the screen saver. I'm wondering if it was disc-dependent (it definitely happened with Twilight Zone, which is B&W), although I'm not sure how this explains the screen saver differences. Maybe if I have time this weekend...

Doug

On my Oppo menu I can see adjustments for Sharpness, Brightness, Contrast and Saturation.

Are there controls for the individual colors?

In a secret menu?

Are there controls for the individual colors? No. The OPPO's color output (over DVI) is good and should not require tweaking. The display is supposed to take care of that (possibly in the service menu).

Gary

But hows this for a new conundrum, Gary: with truelife set to on macroblocking is actually elminated in certain discs--well, one that I tested (Heimat 3, a beautifully sharp PAL r2 disc from AE). The macroblock enhance happened in a number of black and white scenes, it was small but still distracting, but with truefile on it went away completely! Macroblocking is a funny thing. If you tweak something to get rid of it in one scene, it may pop up in another. Truelife definitely causes that behavior.
I also hooked up the components from the mediatek to the ae700 to test the MB before it passed to through the faroudja chip--boy, is that a rough picture! Absolutely terrible; it's like going back to VHS. It still sometimes showed some MB though, which suggests enhance is going on. Ah, but now you could be seeing MB recorded on the disk. Macroblock-enhance is uniquely a Faroudja bug. Players often get the blame when MB appears in the source material. As for the rough picture, the AE700 uses its own proprietary processing for deinterlacing and scaling. How good is it with 480i over component, in comparison with the amazing DVI output from the OPPO?

Gary

This explanation seems reasonable, and I would have said the same thing, except that on an UN-hacked Zenith DVB-318 player which I owned, (one with February 2005, OEM firmware that was not supposed to up-convert protected content over component video outputs) some DVDs did up-convert, and some did not. Two test cases were "Gladiator", which did up-convert, beautifully, and "Castaway", which stayed at 480p, despite a 720p setting on the player. Win-DVD tells me that both of these DVDs are encrypted MPEG2 streams. Something is not adding up, and it could be the Zenith player was broken, or it could be that there is something else required to block the up-conversion.

On a related note, it is mystifying that any "license agreement" would forbid analog signals as in the Zenith, but not un-encrypted digital siganals as in the Oppo. It is precisely un-encrypted digital signals that are the greatest threat to content protection, since they can be recorded without loss of signal fidelity. It is this simple logic that led me to conclude there should be HDCP protection at the output of the Oppo's DVI connection. Apparently in the world of movie-studio legal agreements, logic takes a back seat to some other form of cause and effect.
>>>> When playing back a DVD on an un-hacked or hacked Zenith how can u tell when the disc is being upconverted?

I'm sure this has been addressed, but how can I check my player's firmware #?

Is there such a thing as a DVI splitter? My TV only has one DVI input (and no HDMI inputs), but I have another device in addition to the Oppo that outputs HDMI and came with an HDMI-DVI cable. TIA.

I'm sure this has been addressed, but how can I check my player's firmware #?

There are two ways:

1) Press Eject then OSD. Look for either Batch or Version Number.

2) Press Setup. Press "9210". Look for the Version or Batch Number. Pay attention to the last 4 digits.

Is there such a thing as a DVI splitter? My TV only has one DVI input (and no HDMI inputs), but I have another device in addition to the Oppo that outputs HDMI and came with an HDMI-DVI cable. TIA.

You will have to go with a switch. Switches generally range from 150-400 dollars.

Macroblocking is a funny thing. If you tweak something to get rid of it in one scene, it may pop up in another. Truelife definitely causes that behavior.
Ah, but now you could be seeing MB recorded on the disk. Macroblock-enhance is uniquely a Faroudja bug. Players often get the blame when MB appears in the source material. As for the rough picture, the AE700 uses its own proprietary processing for deinterlacing and scaling. How good is it with 480i over component, in comparison with the amazing DVI output from the OPPO?

Gary

The ae700 deinterlacing and upscaling from my old sony was pretty good, certainly much, much better than the component outs from the oppo. However, it was also nowhere near as good as the oppo through DVI, bacially it was noisier and felt much less smooth and precise. It's the oppo all the way.

As to you point about MB enhance I take that entirely, that is why I set up the experiment with the faroudja chip out of the loop.

What was interesting about comparing the component to the DVI was that the MB you could see in the DVI (enhanced) was only sometimes present in component picture. But it was also the case, to repeat myself, the truelife could either help or worsen the problem. The logic to it is probably incalculable.

Dave

Is there such a thing as a DVI splitter? My TV only has one DVI input (and no HDMI inputs), but I have another device in addition to the Oppo that outputs HDMI and came with an HDMI-DVI cable. TIA.


You can buy either an HDMI splitter or HDMI switch. Do a search on Google for "HDMI splitter" and you will find lots of sources for either a splitter or switch. Also check ebay and you will find them for sale. I believe the spiltters might cost more than a switch.

Check out:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=101&cp_id=10106&cs_id=1010602&p_id=2721&seq=1&format=2

I seem to have an issue with my Oppo player...have only had it, and my projector (Optoma H31) for a few weeks. I searched this thread and didn't see anything about this, but then again, I've never seen anything like this so I wasn't sure what to search for. I had a stuck pixel on the H31, so I got a replacement for it. I hooked up the replacement last night, and started watching a dvd from the Oppo in 480p over DVI (up to this point I think I had had it on 720p when I was using it). When I started up the disc, I noticed what appeared to be a lot of noise whenever there was a black screen or logo, before the menu came up. It was a weird effect - white dots appearing and disappearing around the screen, almost what you'd expect with a noisy print of an old movie. Once the menu came up, and I started the movie, it was gone. I thought it was the projector, but I swapped in the old one, and the issue was still there. I tried out different dvds..same thing with all. I watched one that was 2.35:1, and the issue was actually present during the movie, in the black bars at the top and bottom of the screen. With that movie, the image would actually jump around a little as well occasionally (it seemed to stretch a bit vertically for a split second).

The weirdest part is, it only happens with 480p. If I changed the player to anything else, it's not present. I haven't tried using component output to see if it happens with that as well. Does anyone have any idea what's going on here? I'm hoping it's just some issue with current firmware (I think mine was shipped with the most up-to-date).

Oppo price drop to $189.99 does this mean the new model is about to come out? Any word on it?

$189.99 shipped free

" amazon.com has the top rated OPPO OPDV971H Digital HD-Ready Up-Converting DVD/DiVX Player with DVI, Faroudja DCDi technology for a low $189.99 after code: CECUSTAPPRCT Exp 2/13. Free shipping. Tax in KS, ND, WA. "

Oppo price drop to $189.99 does this mean the new model is about to come out? Any word on it?

$189.99 shipped free

" amazon.com has the top rated OPPO OPDV971H Digital HD-Ready Up-Converting DVD/DiVX Player with DVI, Faroudja DCDi technology for a low $189.99 after code: CECUSTAPPRCT Exp 2/13. Free shipping. Tax in KS, ND, WA. "

Amazon.com plays a game with OPPO every month where they try to lower the price 10 dollars. OPPO usually gets them to change it back to the full retail price by noon PST.

You can buy either an HDMI splitter or HDMI switch. Do a search on Google for "HDMI splitter" and you will find lots of sources for either a splitter or switch. Also check ebay and you will find them for sale. I believe the spiltters might cost more than a switch.

Check out:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=101&cp_id=10106&cs_id=1010602&p_id=2721&seq=1&format=2

What kind of difference can I expect, if I use the a DVI-DVI cable vs a DVI-HDMI?

Is this something that will depend more on what display I have? (Samsung HLR 6057). I have only 1 HDMI input and 1 DVI. Currently I'm using the HDMI input for the Oppo, but may switch to DVI if I get an HD STB with HDMI.

Chris

tanzbodeli,

No difference between DVI and HDMI as far as video is concerned. HDMI can carry digital audio; DVI does not.

tanzbodeli,

No difference between DVI and HDMI as far as video is concerned. HDMI can carry digital audio; DVI does not.

Ok, just wanted to make sure that people don't think that video over hdmi is better than DVI video. I send the audio from the Oppo to the receiver via optical anyway, so I don't really need to use the HDMI input on the TV.

edit: bummer, just realized the TV doesn't have DVI input, it only has 1 HDMI.

Chris

tanzbodeli,

No matter. Get yourself a HDMI switch. A DVI>HDMI cable carries the digital video signal pin for pin.

Mine came with a DVI to HDMI cable included and that is what I use to connect it to my Toshiba 37HL95 LCD Flat Panel with excellent results. For the audio I use optical out to my receiver and cables to the TV.

You can buy either an HDMI splitter or HDMI switch. Do a search on Google for "HDMI splitter" and you will find lots of sources for either a splitter or switch. Also check ebay and you will find them for sale. I believe the spiltters might cost more than a switch.

Check out:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=101&cp_id=10106&cs_id=1010602&p_id=2721&seq=1&format=2

APREST- I'm interested in a HDMI splitter/switch- the ones advertised on the above link seem ok- if I hook up 2 HDMI devices to it will there be any loss in video quality? I've read elsewhere that splitters/switches can reduce picture quality-like some receivers can if you use them for video switching (like those lacking wideband video switching). My tv only has one HDMI input and I'd like to keep my Comcast HDTV tuner and a future BluRay player both connected- can u provide any info? (My Oppo971 will continue to be connected via DVI)

What kind of difference can I expect, if I use the a DVI-DVI cable vs a DVI-HDMI?

Is this something that will depend more on what display I have? (Samsung HLR 6057). I have only 1 HDMI input and 1 DVI. Currently I'm using the HDMI input for the Oppo, but may switch to DVI if I get an HD STB with HDMI.

Chris

I also have a Samsung- 50" HLP5063W- with 1 DVI and 1 HDMI input- I've noticed zero difference in picture quality between the two. I have my Oppo going DVI to DVI and a Comcast HD tuner DVI to HDMI on the Samsung- both look fantastic. I think the only difference is HDMI may also be able to carry audio signal but I'm not sure as I have audio going straight from Oppo to my receiver via Digital Coax. The Samsungs are great as they have so many inputs- even if you decide to add another component in the future in addition to the HD STB (for example, a High Definition DVD player) it won't be a problem as the HD STB also works great via the component inputs on the Samsung- and you can use the Oppo going to the DVI input while the HD DVD player will use the HDMI input.
If you really want to keep it all digital then a HDMI switcher might be another option- only issue is whether these Swichers degrade video quality- I'm waiting on reply from Aprest about that. I imagine any kind of HDMI swicher/splitter would have to be HDCP compliant if it is to work with a HiDef DVD player though.

My tv only has one HDMI input and I'd like to keep my Comcast HDTV tuner and a future BluRay player both connected- can u provide any info?
This question cannot be answered until someone has a BluRay player to test it with. By then there should be more options out there and hopefully at a reduced price.

HDCP compliant cable boxes don't always work with the current generation of HDMI switching receivers. I need a switch also, but I'll wait.

This question cannot be answered until someone has a BluRay player to test it with. By then there should be more options out there and hopefully at a reduced price.

HDCP compliant cable boxes don't always work with the current generation of HDMI switching receivers. I need a switch also, but I'll wait.

...just noticed on monoprice that the specs for their HDMI switches says that they are in fact HDCP compliant- but I'm still wondering about the possible degradation of the video signal going thru a device like this though.

...just noticed on monoprice that the specs for their HDMI switches says that they are in fact HDCP compliant- but I'm still wondering about the possible degradation of the video signal going thru a device like this though.


I'm using a Gefen 4 to 1 hdmi switch with a 30ft. hdmi cable feeding my native 720p projector with no signal loss at all according to my eyes. I've also fed the projector with a short hdmi cable directly from my dvd player (Panny S97) , and have noticed no difference between the two.

Gefen's switches are also HDCP compliant, and are rated to 1080p.

I can't say enough good things about Gefen, they make great products, and great customer service.

Steve

I have a gefen 4:1 switch with analog audio. It has 4 hdmi inputs, 4 analog audio minijack inputs, is hdcp compliant, and outputs dvi + L/R analog audio. My tv has 1 dvi-hdcp input so this is perfect for me. If I get a receiver later, I won't use the analog audio inputs obviously, but it's nice to have. There is absolutely no video degradation whatsoever when using this switch or connecting directly to my tv. I spoke to lexepro (the company that I purchased the switch from) and from what they told me, the gefen and dtrovision switches (even the ones that input hdmi and output hdmi) use dvi circuitry...basically limiting the video quality to the max of what dvi can do, is that 8bit or 10bit video? Anyhow, long story short, the switch should not degrade the quality, at least on a dvi input display.

How can there be video signal degradation across what amounts to a digital network connection? I understand it with SVideo & component video, but not with HDMI.

I read DVI is 8 bit.

I am using a PureLink DVI switch 2 sources to 1 display which is HDCP compliant. More info here http://www.pacificcable.com/Picture_Page.asp?DataName=DS-21R

This is a 5 v powered switch so the signal is actually boosted in the process, not a bad thing for the Oppo. The description says "Signal Amplification for signal reliability and long length signal transmission. Our 5V power adapter supplies adequate power to amplify the video signals from different video sources. This is necessary as the overall length from the video source to the displays is longer when using the switches (distance from the video source to the switch + distance from the switch to the display). In most cases, the overall distance that the DVI signal will need to travel is over 10ft. Due to the nature of DVI signals, amplification is necessary to warrant the video quality and reliability. (Without amplification, there may be occasional blackouts or blinking effects.) With this amplification feature, your video display can be extended up to 2300ft using our fiber optical DVI cables."

This switch is pricey at $299. I think I paid $199. a year ago. I'd try monoprice. Their switch is also powered and is about $100.

Dana

I'd try monoprice. Their switch is also powered and is about $100.


Can you please provide a link to the monoprice DVI Switch? I could find the HDMI switch, but not the DVI switch. TIA.

Sony RPTV KP-65wv700

NewBie question. I have read many of the thousands of posts, and the OPPO step by step setup guide post.

I have a Sony RPTV 65" HDTV. It has 4 Video modes- Vivid, standard, Movie, and Pro.

The post on setting up says I should use Movie to set it up with my DVE Tweaking CD.

But Vivid and Pro also look good. What should I be using on my Sony?
Anyone else have Sony RPTV (real projection) HDTVs?

I got people coming over for the SuperBowl and I want to show off the Great OPPO pic quality at half time. I what it tweaked to be the best. I bet I will get some more newbie OPPO fans once they see it.

My early Oppo experience viewing ghosting / retained image on fades to black and screen saver were observed in the first week of ownership before I calibrated. My current, calibrated black level is just low enough to make this behavior unobservable now.

Doug

Sony RPTV KP-65wv700

NewBie question. I have read many of the thousands of posts, and the OPPO step by step setup guide post.

I have a Sony RPTV 65" HDTV. It has 4 Video modes- Vivid, standard, Movie, and Pro.

The post on setting up says I should use Movie to set it up with my DVE Tweaking CD.

But Vivid and Pro also look good. What should I be using on my Sony?
Anyone else have Sony RPTV (real projection) HDTVs?

I got people coming over for the SuperBowl and I want to show off the Great OPPO pic quality at half time. I what it tweaked to be the best. I bet I will get some more newbie OPPO fans once they see it.


You should use PRO mode as that has the least amount of artificial/edge enhancement settings.

I just ordered the Oppo and will be trying it with my Sony KP-57WS520.

Are you seeing macroblocking at all?

On the topic of switchers, I am using the Gefen DVI switcher for my Oppo and HD DVR. It seems to draw power from the DVI cables somehow, as the indicator light is on, even though I do not have the power adapter plugged in. Do I need to have the power on? Is there some extra amplication if I do?

Can you please provide a link to the monoprice DVI Switch? I could find the HDMI switch, but not the DVI switch. TIA.

Sorry if I misled you. I don't think monoprice offers a DVI switch. But, the HDMI switch should work fine with a DVI>HDMI cable.

Dana

Thanks, Dana. :) I hadn't thought of that! Duh!

Jim

My early Oppo experience viewing ghosting / retained image on fades to black and screen saver were observed in the first week of ownership before I calibrated. My current, calibrated black level is just low enough to make this behavior unobservable now.

Doug

Calibration helps but does not eliminate the issue. I've calibrated using AVIA and with the latest firmware I get image retention when Truelife is off. When using FW 1022 I can turn Truelife off, and nearly eliminate macroblocking with no image retention.

To reduce the ghosting and image retention, ensure the Oppo's noise reduction is turned to "Off"

Paul

On the topic of switchers, I am using the Gefen DVI switcher for my Oppo and HD DVR. It seems to draw power from the DVI cables somehow, as the indicator light is on, even though I do not have the power adapter plugged in. Do I need to have the power on? Is there some extra amplication if I do?

I think the answers to your questions in reverse order are that yes, according to a Gefen switcher manual I checked on line, powering it up "(e)xtends any DVI compliant device by regenerating the DVI signal." If you have no signal problems without the power adapter being plugged in, you apparently don't need it.

Dana

To reduce the ghosting and image retention, ensure the Oppo's noise reduction is turned to "Off"

Paul

Does anyone know if this effect is going to be addressed in the next FW? It's a catch 22 for me with the noise reduction on. In my setup this provides the overall best picture compared with any other combination, however the image retention is a big drawback in using it.

I think the answers to your questions in reverse order are that yes, according to a Gefen switcher manual I checked on line, powering it up "(e)xtends any DVI compliant device by regenerating the DVI signal." If you have no signal problems without the power adapter being plugged in, you apparently don't need it.

I noticed this same thing tonight. Are you positive? Wow =p

Does anyone know if this effect is going to be addressed in the next FW? It's a catch 22 for me with the noise reduction on. In my setup this provides the overall best picture compared with any other combination, however the image retention is a big drawback in using it.No, the image retention is a known tradeoff with NR.

Gary

To reduce the ghosting and image retention, ensure the Oppo's noise reduction is turned to "Off" Hi Paul, we haven't seen you in a while. You may not have seen our recent discussion on this topic. See my post here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7042828&&#post7042828). It appears that the image retention/ghosting with fast-moving images is present even when NR is OFF. You have to turn Truelife ON to make it go away.

Gary

I just ordered an OPPO. I posted over the projector forum (4805/OPPO specific) as well but had more OPPO related questions.

My wife is Russian, so we get a lot of movies in varying formats/subtitles/etc. From what I could research, this player seems like a great choice as a "swiss army knife" kind of solution. Are there any limitations or tricks I should know about when playing back other region coded DVDs, subtitles, etc?

We will predominantly play US released DVDs. Using it over DVI to M1DA cable to 4805.

Also, can the firmware updates be loaded via burned CD? Or do you have to burn a DVD? (only have a CD burner).

Sorry if these are basic questions but doing a search on "OPPO" and "4805" returns a gazillion hits.

dmcdayton, searching on this board is wierd... if you want messages that have both "Oppo" AND "4805" the search string needs to have a '+' in front of each word, i.e. "+Oppo +4805". Also the advanced search page will allow you to choose to display specific posts instead of the entire thread, which here can have over 1000 or more posts.

Hi Gary,

It has been a little while -- extremely busy with work. I'll take a look at the TrueLife settings and see what happens with the image retention.

Paul

Thanks 73Chargerfan. I've been posting here for a few years and didn't know that. Found several posts alluding to the fact that custom resolution isn't available to match the 4805. Looks like a lot of people have purchased for same reasons as I (HDCP free, region free). Also found answer to the CD burned firmware (yes you can).

Can't wait, should have player this week.

My Oppo was showing ghosting, or the "image retention" problem on a scene in Spiderman I. Turning TrueLife ON eliminated the problem.

In further thought on the DVI/HDMI issue, I've been looking at the Yamaha RX-V2600 AVR (2 In/1 Out HDMI), whose manual states, "Use a conversion cable (HDMI jack<-> DVi-D jack) to connect this unit to other DVI components." However, the manual goes on to say, "This unit is not compatible with HDCP-incompatible HDMI or DVI components." Does this mean that, if I connected the Oppo to the Yamaha via a DVD-HDMI cable, the Yamaha wouldn't pass the Oppo's video?

Jim

ok. I give up. Now I am really confused. Just what IS the function of Truelife?

It would pass - it simply means the display device used (your TV) must be HDCP compliant as your reciever adds the HDCP protection to the signal.

ok. I give up. Now I am really confused. Just what IS the function of Truelife?

To quote Faroudja:
TrueLife™ Enhancement
Conventional video enhancement is done by a “peaking filter” that enhances the high-frequency components of the video signal. However, this creates unwanted artifacts. Faroudja does not use a peaking filter to enhance an image rather uses its TrueLife™ Enhancement technology to identify transitions considered to be the details in an image such as skin texture, freckles or hair. These detail transitions are deliberately enhanced making them more visible and more lifelike. The technology also enhances large edges to create greater depth of perception without introducing visual artifacts or distortion.

Rewind 2 years and you could substitute 'OPPO' with 'BRAVO'. Same MSRP, same problems.

Rewind 2 years and you could substitute 'OPPO' with 'BRAVO'. Same MSRP, same problems.


Except bravo didn't care about the player after they sold it, while OPPO does.

OPPO is willing and more than happy to fix the problems.

To compare them is very unfair.

Oppo has provided more support for the 971H in its first three months than Bravo provided in the D1/D2 product lifetime.

Oppo also clearly did its homework with component selection for both performance and reliability. The same was not true of Bravo with its early products.

Yep, Oppo has a picture that rivals players many times it's price, with better support than any of the large manufacturers, so I would say that the Oppo is not even close to the Bravo.

Lets not forget that some of us are new and just got our OPPOs.

Reading this from the maker of the chip, it would sound like I would want Truelife on so things look more real. What are the Pro and Cons, in newbie terms?

"To quote Faroudja:
TrueLife™ Enhancement
Conventional video enhancement is done by a “peaking filter” that enhances the high-frequency components of the video signal. However, this creates unwanted artifacts. Faroudja does not use a peaking filter to enhance an image rather uses its TrueLife™ Enhancement technology to identify transitions considered to be the details in an image such as skin texture, freckles or hair. These detail transitions are deliberately enhanced making them more visible and more lifelike. The technology also enhances large edges to create greater depth of perception without introducing visual artifacts or distortion."

I love my OPPO 971. The Faroujda chip inside it is a bit dated but at the time they probably started their design it was the only real option.

Hopefully OPPO will select one of the newer chips out there for any future DVD players but for now you simply cannot get more bang for the buck IMO.

Rewind 2 years and you could substitute 'OPPO' with 'BRAVO'. Same MSRP, same problems. So glad you contributed to the collective knowledge of this thread. You're really a BIG help. :rolleyes: :p

Well, after 2 weeks of owning the Oppo, I have to say I love the image quality. It's superb - and not just for a $200 player.

However, there are 2 things bothering me right now.

Audio sync. I'm having problems with lip sync and I just can't get rid of them. I have the latest beta firmware which allows audio delays up to 120ms. I have set mine to 100ms (due to problems many people have experienced with 120ms) and I still get major audio sync problems. The lag is variable. When I start playing a DVD, the video usually lags only slightly. The audio nearly matches the video, but still comes in a little bit early - not enough to be annoying though. However, as the movie goes on, the sync problem gets worse. The video starts lagging more and more, to the point where sometimes you'll hear a character say a word and then you'll see him/her say it immediately afterwards. It's definitely noticable - and I say that because my guests have noticed it without me mentioning anything. Unfortunately, I have no way of further delaying the audio in my audio receiver.

Luma levels. I think there might be a luma level bug in the new firmware. I have calibrated my projector with Avia, and yet, it's happened to me twice already that upon revisiting the Avia disc I have found out that the brightness and contrast are not correct anymore. It's almost as if sometimes luma is initialized at one value and sometimes at another. Has anyone else had this problem?

The audio sync problem is driving me nuts and I fear that if it doesn't get fixed soon, I will have no choice but to return the Oppo. I'm a videophile first and foremost and I love having a great picture, but so far I've never heard any of my friends say "The picture is really soft" but many have already said "I think the audio is out of sync with the video."

Well, after 2 weeks of owning the Oppo, I have to say I love the image quality. It's superb - and not just for a $200 player.

However, there are 2 things bothering me right now. zambelli, hang in there. The firmware you are using is not even beta firmware. It was given to a few people as a courtesy, but it comes with known issues. I think you should give OPPO a break. They are working extremely hard, and have been very accommodating to those of you who requested this "special" firmware. But they have also been very clear about it being a work in progress, and very honest about its limitations. They are NOT done with it... they haven't even released it to their regular beta testers yet.

Gary

I'm using 120ms over digital and it is still not enough delay sometimes.

I've never seen the audio meet up perfectly with this player, yet, with 0 delay or with 120ms delay.

Granted, it is beta, but do you seriously suspect perfect lip sync on the final release? I thought they would just fix the noise when using 120ms over analog? I pray that it is fixed, though, because it is my only real problem with this player!

Can anyone describe the cause of the problems? Most players do not even have a delay option and are perfect - what gives?

PLEAS HELP-- I have the Oppo with the panny 900 and I try to play 2:35 material and it looks like all I can do is 16:9-- new with this and not sure how to get it to work. Also, do I need to callibrate this dvd player-- I've always been plug and play BUT I don't think the picture is as good as people say can be seen on this thing-- not much oomph and definitely NOT stunning so what am I missing??? Many many thanks for helping at all.

I'm using 120ms over digital and it is still not enough delay sometimes.

I've never seen the audio meet up perfectly with this player, yet, with 0 delay or with 120ms delay.

Granted, it is beta, but do you seriously suspect perfect lip sync on the final release? I thought they would just fix the noise when using 120ms over analog? I pray that it is fixed, though, because it is my only real problem with this player!

Can anyone describe the cause of the problems? Most players do not even have a delay option and are perfect - what gives?

The delay is caused by the motion adaptive de-interlacing and upscaling of the faroudja chip. DVDs don't come with any audio/video cross- tracking references so it's hard to keep the audio in synch when so much work has to be done on the video and so little on the audio. Any player with this capability (at this price) has the same or similar problems. The other player that don't have the problems are--probably--either very expensive or don't have an upscaling facility.

To get in synch I use 100ms on the oppo and 70ms from my receiver.--though it was passable when the best I could get out of the oppo was 50ms, it's definately better now The oppo probably needs 200ms to cover itself. They'll get there in the end if we keep asking the question.

Dave

The fixed delay settings on the Oppo are not the solution to the random sync losses. If you're getting abnormally high instances of loss, maybe it's time to go looking again. I get it only rarely. Otherwise, I'd have moved on last April. The Oppo has a lot of fans, but still...not for everyone.

PLEAS HELP-- I have the Oppo with the panny 900 and I try to play 2:35 material and it looks like all I can do is 16:9-- new with this and not sure how to get it to work. Also, do I need to callibrate this dvd player-- I've always been plug and play BUT I don't think the picture is as good as people say can be seen on this thing-- not much oomph and definitely NOT stunning so what am I missing??? Many many thanks for helping at all.


Can you explain your problem a bit more clearly. When you play 1:2.35 material it should fill the full width of the screen with fairly large black bars top and bottom. If you are getting this that is what you are supposed to get.

If you are trying to change the aspect ratio of the projector then you'll find you wont be able to. Using DVI-HDMI locks the aspect ratio to 16:9 (though black bars will be show on anamorphic material) on all upscaled resolutions.

If what you want to do is show 4:3 material then the easiest thing to do is go into the oppo's setup menu and set it to "wide/squeeze."

Yes you do need to calibrate the pj to the oppo for best results. This kind of equipment is not really set up for plug and play but for those that like to get more involved. Check out the ae900 threads for some advice on this.

If you have any other problems look first at the FAQs at the start of this thread or try to be very clear about what the problem is in your next post.

I have the oppo with an ae700 and the results have oomph and definately are stunning, so stick with it.

Dave

The fixed delay settings on the Oppo are not the solution to the random sync losses. If you're getting abnormally high instances of loss, maybe it's time to go looking again. I get it only rarely. Otherwise, I'd have moved on last April. The Oppo has a lot of fans, but still...not for everyone.

I've come across drift synch problems, or random synch problems maybe two or three times in 6months and many hundreds of hours. It can't be all that common.

Dave

Same here.

I'm glad to hear the lip sync problems are not a big deal. I just got my new Oppo and love the picture. I have noticed a slight lip sync lag but nothing super noticable (I am a filmaker so it drives me nuts if/when it happens). Many thanks to the forum for all the good advice and guides!

Except bravo didn't care about the player after they sold it, while OPPO does.

OPPO is willing and more than happy to fix the problems.

To compare them is very unfair.

Having 'problems' in a DVD player is a problem itself whether or not the manufacturer will acknowledge and fix them. If any device in a theater should be 'plug and play', 'set it and forget it', or what have you, it is a DVD player.. But over 3000 posts on a $199 player is telling about how reliability....

Having 'problems' in a DVD player is a problem itself whether or not the manufacturer will acknowledge and fix them. If any device in a theater should be 'plug and play', 'set it and forget it', or what have you, it is a DVD player.. But over 3000 posts on a $199 player is telling about how reliability....
The number of posts on an internet forum regarding a particular product has no automatic relationship with the product's quality or reliability. As a matter of fact, I find that poor products, when not addressed by the mfg, receive fewer and fewer posts intil it all just fades away.

Oppo has "opened its doors" and invited us in. They've done this through customer support and through this forum. I live very, very close to the Oppo shop in Mountain View and I've contacted Oppo a few times about certain issues only to be invited over to show them what's happening. And the topics are more positive in nature rather than complaining. It's high time a mfg paid attention to its customers the way Oppo had done here - and if that doesn't result in a constant flow of posts then there's something wrong.

INMO, the number of posts here is a sign of healthy exchange. ;)

...over 3000 posts on a $199 player is telling about how reliability....3000 posts can also be telling about how popular it is. Being #1 on the SECRETS test, makes that a very likely possibilty.

Having 'problems' in a DVD player is a problem itself whether or not the manufacturer will acknowledge and fix them. If any device in a theater should be 'plug and play', 'set it and forget it', or what have you, it is a DVD player.. But over 3000 posts on a $199 player is telling about how reliability....

You can get a good picture out of the OPDV971H by doing a "plug and play" approach, but that would not be in the spirit of this forum. AVS is all about getting the best out of your investment, even if the investment was only 199 dollars.

If people seriously did not like the product, you would think that "OPPO sucks" type threads would go much longer than 38 posts. But they don't for good reason.

zambelli, hang in there. The firmware you are using is not even beta firmware. It was given to a few people as a courtesy, but it comes with known issues. I think you should give OPPO a break. They are working extremely hard, and have been very accommodating to those of you who requested this "special" firmware. But they have also been very clear about it being a work in progress, and very honest about its limitations. They are NOT done with it... they haven't even released it to their regular beta testers yet.
Does anyone know what the return policy is on the Oppo bought from the Extreme Phono website? Is it 30 days? I'd hate to get stuck with a player I cannot enjoy - if the audio delay issue doesn't get fixed.

I hope we are still getting a new firmware this week :)

I hope we are still getting a new firmware this week :)
That would be nice, especially if it has the fix for the incompatablity of the latest firmware with certain TVs.
J

Does anyone know what the return policy is on the Oppo bought from the Extreme Phono website? Is it 30 days? I'd hate to get stuck with a player I cannot enjoy - if the audio delay issue doesn't get fixed.

From their website:
Money-back guarantee. Regardless of any reason, within 30-day, return the item in its original condition for a full-refund.

I've come across drift synch problems, or random synch problems maybe two or three times in 6months and many hundreds of hours. It can't be all that common.

Dave

I agree, and if there is anything that bothers me, it is a synch issue. I will spend an hour or more synching an avi movie using virtualdub just to make it right. My other mpeg4/DivX/XviD player (Philips) had frequent synch issues. The Oppo has never had synch isssue with any mpeg4 file I have played. I have noticed a synch problem on only 2 dvds out of close to the 100 I have played so far in this player - and both were DVDs I had converted myself from XviD and the problem was easily solved using the delay feature. I have my Oppo video connected to a Toshiba 37HL95 LCD flatscreen via dvi to hdmi, audio to my receiver via optical cable, and audio to my TV via LT/RT audio cables. I have Downmix set at 5.1CH mode. I am not sure, maybe the Oppo works better with the Toshiba or with LCD, or I have just so far been lucky. I previously had a Samsung DLP that I returned because I couldn't live with the sych issue - the Samsung DLP had constant synch problems, and that was long before I had the Oppo - it had synch problems with HDTV, the Philips DVD player and a Pioneer DVD player. To sum it up, at this time I am very satisfied with my purchase of this DVD player.

Having 'problems' in a DVD player is a problem itself whether or not the manufacturer will acknowledge and fix them. If any device in a theater should be 'plug and play', 'set it and forget it', or what have you, it is a DVD player.. But over 3000 posts on a $199 player is telling about how reliability....

So, according to your logic; the Denon 3910 is pure crap?

Has anyone had issues with the DVI to HDMI cable that came with their unit? In other words, the cable not being of high enough quality for the 720p or 1080i signal to be recognized by the TV.

Thanks

No. Mine works perfectly.

Dana

Has anyone had issues with the DVI to HDMI cable that came with their unit? In other words, the cable not being of high enough quality for the 720p or 1080i signal to be recognized by the TV.

Thanks

I did some tests on the DVI-HDMI cable that came with the unit, and I only received 5-6 errors at 1080i. Testing the DVI-HDMI cable that came with the HDMI test equipement yeilded 9-17 errors. I would say that the cable is more than sufficient at the current cable length.

So I take it everyone is turning True Life off an not using the more "visible and more lifelike" features or is the True Life setting more for those with out HDTVs?

"To quote Faroudja:
TrueLife™ Enhancement
Conventional video enhancement is done by a “peaking filter” that enhances the high-frequency components of the video signal. However, this creates unwanted artifacts. Faroudja does not use a peaking filter to enhance an image rather uses its TrueLife™ Enhancement technology to identify transitions considered to be the details in an image such as skin texture, freckles or hair. These detail transitions are deliberately enhanced making them more visible and more lifelike. The technology also enhances large edges to create greater depth of perception without introducing visual artifacts or distortion."
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So, according to your logic; the Denon 3910 is pure crap?

C'mon....look at all the OPPO complaints, needed software updates, lip sync problems, HDMI issues, etc, etc, etc over the last few pages. At least with the Denon, you plug it in and it goes...

In just browsing the last few pages, it is tatally reminisecnt of the Bravo..almost exactly..software revisions, problems in playback, etc...identical. It appears that the $199 players that appeal to tweakers never seem ready for prime time....yet we keep buying them (I did buy the Bravo....but have skipped the OPPO). I see 3000 posts that make me feel good about not buying this one....and with Blu Ray and HD DVD here, I have less interest in a better upconverted 480i picture.

C'mon....look at all the OPPO complaints, needed software updates, lip sync problems, HDMI issues, etc, etc, etc over the last few pages. At least with the Denon, you plug it in and it goes...


Well, it seems you never owned the 3910 or the 2910. They both need updates/fixes, but unfortunately Denon is not as customer friendly in this regard. Even the 5910, perhaps the best SD DVD player on the planet, has required and could still use some extra tweaks.

To OPPO's credit, they tried something entirely different in an effort to maximize video DVI 480p/720p/1080i performance. This effort did not come without a risk and to their credit they have been extremely active helping tie up the loose ends of their bold effort.

Your criticism is unfounded. All DVD players, at any price range, have had their problems. Many go unfixed.

OPPO has been one of the better examples of a company continuing to provide follow up development, extending and improving upon the value & performance of the product. Yes, they have more work to do. But what you suggest, based on their efforts in the context of every other player available, is simply absurd.

You don't like OPPO, fine. IMHO, but for the 5910, OPPO is doing it better than anyone else and continues with a fine tradition of commitment to improve the product thru updates.

Really? Remiscent of the Bravo? I owned the Bravo D2. There was only one firmware revision. There is only one posted on the V. Inc. web site now, dating back to 2004. There was virtually no tech assistance. The Oppo is 'way ahead of the D2 in PQ, firmware revisions, and customer support based on my personal experience having owned both. If you've skipped the Oppo, then you don't speak from experience with it, do you. Just speculation. The Oppo was better than the D2 when I bought it nine months ago. And it is even better today.

You're just a contrarian.

Dana

C'mon....look at all the OPPO complaints, needed software updates, lip sync problems, HDMI issues, etc, etc, etc over the last few pages. At least with the Denon, you plug it in and it goes...

Having 'problems' in a DVD player is a problem itself whether or not the manufacturer will acknowledge and fix them. If any device in a theater should be 'plug and play', 'set it and forget it', or what have you, it is a DVD player.. But over 3000 posts on a $199 player is telling about how reliability....

I did a search on the Panasonic - DVD-S97 which you list as your DVD player on your Screening Room - Current Components. Almost 1500 posts on the S97 on a $300 player is telling about reliability... .
I also did a search on the Denon - DVD-3910 here on AVS. But with over 5583 posts on a $1000 player is telling about reliability...

Using your logic... Not mine :rolleyes:

I did some tests on the DVI-HDMI cable that came with the unit, and I only received 5-6 errors at 1080i. Testing the DVI-HDMI cable that came with the HDMI test equipement yeilded 9-17 errors. I would say that the cable is more than sufficient at the current cable length.

I should be getting another cable from Oppo tomorrow or Wednesday...wait it is Tomorrow..Today. OK, or WEdnesday. I will try that. They said if that does not work, they will ship a new unit. I may try a wire I buy at Fry's to test the HDMI output on my HD PVR. If that does not work either, I would suspect a problem with the HDMI input on the TV, since my HD CVI works fine and does all the scaling that it needs to do. As the Oppo tech said, better cable or DVD player than the TV.

C'mon....look at all the OPPO complaints, needed software updates, lip sync problems, HDMI issues, etc, etc, etc over the last few pages. At least with the Denon, you plug it in and it goes...

In just browsing the last few pages, it is tatally reminisecnt of the Bravo..almost exactly..software revisions, problems in playback, etc...identical. It appears that the $199 players that appeal to tweakers never seem ready for prime time....yet we keep buying them (I did buy the Bravo....but have skipped the OPPO). I see 3000 posts that make me feel good about not buying this one....and with Blu Ray and HD DVD here, I have less interest in a better upconverted 480i picture.

I just plugged it in and it plays fine 94% of the time. But that is about the same precentage I get with lip sync issues while watching OTA TV.

I think it is a great cheap DVD player.

Larry

Hi

Just a quick question about this player. The Secrets Benchmark lists this player as having a seamless layer change, but the Audioholics review states the layer change is about 0.75-0.8 seconds. So who is right? Do they use different test discs to test for the layer change?

Thanks.

Hi

Just a quick question about this player. The Secrets Benchmark lists this player as having a seamless layer change, but the Audioholics review states the layer change is about 0.75-0.8 seconds. So who is right? Do they use different test discs to test for the layer change?

Thanks.


Umberto, just re-reading your Foucault's Pendulum as I write: what a coincidence!

I've not noticed one layer change since I got the oppo. Secrets is right--the layer change pause is history.

Dave

he he, yeah I thought Secrets would be right. But then again, Audioholics seem to know their stuff too. Maybe they got their results mixed up with some other player when doing the writeup.

I'm really thinking about getting this player. Right now I don't have an HDTV, just a Sony analog. I know some people have had problems with lip synch, but is this a problem with analog tv's? Thanks...

I'm really thinking about getting this player. Right now I don't have an HDTV, just a Sony analog. I know some people have had problems with lip synch, but is this a problem with analog tv's? Thanks...
If your TV doesn't have a DVI or HDMI input, don't get the Oppo, it won't preform near its best.

At least with the Denon, you plug it in and it goes...
Odd, I plugged in my Oppo and it just worked. Imagine that.

The Secrets Benchmark lists this player as having a seamless layer change, but the Audioholics review states the layer change is about 0.75-0.8 seconds.
Go with Secrets.
J

In just browsing the last few pages, it is tatally reminisecnt of the Bravo..almost exactly..software revisions, problems in playback, etc...identical.

Jeff, where your analogy breaks down is that the Oppo has much, much, much better picture quality than the Bravo. The problems the player still has are mostly superficial. The Bravo, on the other hand, was just a piece of junk through and through.

So I take it everyone is turning True Life off an not using the more "visible and more lifelike" features or is the True Life setting more for those with out HDTVs?

I go back and forth on this. My inclination is to turn off all unnecessary processing, because in most cases it hurts the picture more than helps, but sometimes I feel that the Oppo's picture is better with TrueLife on.

I have found that the Faroudja deinterlacing is still affected by TrueLife, even though Oppo supposedly fixed that error. I get occasional combing errors with TrueLife off that go away when it's turned on.

I agree, and if there is anything that bothers me, it is a synch issue. I will spend an hour or more synching an avi movie using virtualdub just to make it right. My other mpeg4/DivX/XviD player (Philips) had frequent synch issues. The Oppo has never had synch isssue with any mpeg4 file I have played. I have noticed a synch problem on only 2 dvds out of close to the 100 I have played so far in this player - and both were DVDs I had converted myself from XviD and the problem was easily solved using the delay feature. I have my Oppo video connected to a Toshiba 37HL95 LCD flatscreen via dvi to hdmi, audio to my receiver via optical cable, and audio to my TV via LT/RT audio cables. I have Downmix set at 5.1CH mode. I am not sure, maybe the Oppo works better with the Toshiba or with LCD, or I have just so far been lucky. I previously had a Samsung DLP that I returned because I couldn't live with the sych issue - the Samsung DLP had constant synch problems, and that was long before I had the Oppo - it had synch problems with HDTV, the Philips DVD player and a Pioneer DVD player. To sum it up, at this time I am very satisfied with my purchase of this DVD player.

Thanks for mentioning that. I've had the oppo since last summer. I have some occasional sync issue as well. I'm connectted to a Tsoh CRT 65hx93. With audio to a Sony reciever, via digital audio out - coax. I've also had some problems with stuttering on home recorded dvd's and have exhanged emails with OPPO support and provided them samples. Im hoping they will resolve it. It has happened with some others as well, though not everyone has the problem.

In any event, wrt the sync problems, hich are only occasionally, I had actually not considered that I also experience them occasionally with my OTA HiDef broadcasts which go into the TV RF in. It's not often, but it does happen occassionally.

I'm still glad I got the oppo, though I do hope they resolve some of the issues. They defeintely have the best customer support I've experienced. If they would put out a dvd recorder that support record on dvd -r and -rw's I'd pop for one in an instant. (I'm too far down the road to invest in the + format).

Rick

So I take it everyone is turning True Life off an not using the more "visible and more lifelike" features or is the True Life setting more for those with out HDTVs?

"To quote Faroudja:
TrueLife™ Enhancement
Conventional video enhancement is done by a “peaking filter” that enhances the high-frequency components of the video signal. However, this creates unwanted artifacts. Faroudja does not use a peaking filter to enhance an image rather uses its TrueLife™ Enhancement technology to identify transitions considered to be the details in an image such as skin texture, freckles or hair. These detail transitions are deliberately enhanced making them more visible and more lifelike. The technology also enhances large edges to create greater depth of perception without introducing visual artifacts or distortion."
Report Post

I'll double check, but I think I have mine set to on.

Rick

I keep it set to ON on mine. I see the issues with image retention without it.

he he, yeah I thought Secrets would be right. But then again, Audioholics seem to know their stuff too. Maybe they got their results mixed up with some other player when doing the writeup.

Maybe this also is sensitive to the DVD? I've had Oppo since last summer and have never noticed a layer change. This past week, I've noticed it on 2 different dvd's.

These were both DVD's I got from public library, so maybe they were in bad shape.

Rick

Maybe this also is sensitive to the DVD? I've had Oppo since last summer and have never noticed a layer change. This past week, I've noticed it on 2 different dvd's.

The length of the layer change does vary from disc to disc depending on how they were mastered. The Oppo has a specific digital frame buffer (I forget the exact specs), and if the layer change goes beyond that you still get some delay, but obviously much shorter than without the frame buffer.

I believe Tomorrow Never Dies is the only DVD where I've noticed any lag at the layer change using the Oppo. Most other notorious DVDs for bad layer change placement (ex. Monsters Inc.) zip right through.

I just got my OPPO last week and I'm totally impressed with the PQ. That could be a result of my crappy older DVD player, but non the less it IS an improvement. I have a AE900 PJ

I do have a few questions though that I could not find specifics for by searching this thread.

1. After reading through the thread about the 1224B firmware, is it better than 1111B or should I scrap that and go back to the 1022 firmware?

2. Sorry I have to ask this but what is "beta" firmware?

3. I'm getting the image shift to the right and was wondering if I should just offset the picture through my PJ menu or is that bad or once again should I go back to the 1022?

4. Does the OPPO do a true 1:1 mapping? In other words, should I turn the overscan off on my PJ or does it really matter with this DVD player?

5. What is layer change?

On a side note, I did see MB for the first time last night while watching "Oh Brother" and I'm not sure how to address that.

Thanks for the help,
Rob

I just got my OPPO last week and I'm totally impressed with the PQ. That could be a result of my crappy older DVD player, but non the less it IS an improvement. I have a AE900 PJ

I do have a few questions though that I could not find specifics for by searching this thread.

1. After reading through the thread about the 1224B firmware, is it better than 1111B or should I scrap that and go back to the 1022 firmware?

2. Sorry I have to ask this but what is "beta" firmware?

3. I'm getting the image shift to the right and was wondering if I should just offset the picture through my PJ menu or is that bad or once again should I go back to the 1022?

4. Does the OPPO do a true 1:1 mapping? In other words, should I turn the overscan off on my PJ or does it really matter with this DVD player?

5. What is layer change?

On a side note, I did see MB for the first time last night while watching "Oh Brother" and I'm not sure how to address that.

Thanks for the help,
Rob

1. the 1224 is european specified fw that sorts out a few PAL quibbles--but it does add some extra audio delay that some find helpful. It will soon be replaced by the a new fw for the oppo proper.

2. a beta firmware is one that is being tested for errors--the 1224 isn't a beta and b at the end of a firmware, eg., 1111b, stands for black remote not beta (in case that through you)

3. If you get the picture shift and play mainly NTSC discs, then role back to the 1022b--remember to reset the oppo's brightness to -3.

4. I don't know about 1:1 pixel mapping, but the oppo slightly underscans, so you certainly don't need any overscan correction.

5. A layer change is the slight pause when a dual layer DVD changes layers. The oppo is buffered so the pause doesn't occur (or at least shouldn't...see above).

Hope that helps.

Dave

1. the 1224 is european specified fw that sorts out a few PAL quibbles--but it does add some extra audio delay that some find helpful. It will soon be replaced by the a new fw for the oppo proper.

2. a beta firmware is one that is being tested for errors--the 1224 isn't a beta and b at the end of a firmware, eg., 1111b, stands for black remote not beta (in case that through you)

3. If you get the picture shift and play mainly NTSC discs, then role back to the 1022b--remember to reset the oppo's brightness to -3.

4. I don't know about 1:1 pixel mapping, but the oppo slightly underscans, so you certainly don't need any overscan correction.

5. A layer change is the slight pause when a dual layer DVD changes layers. The oppo is buffered so the pause doesn't occur (or at least shouldn't...see above).

Hope that helps.

Dave

Thanks for your quick replies Dave.

Back to question 3. Do you think I should roll back or just use the horizontal image shift in my PJ? Or will that introduce PQ issues?

What' a layer? :confused:

Thanks again,
Rob

1. the 1224 is european specified fw that sorts out a few PAL quibbles--but it does add some extra audio delay that some find helpful. It will soon be replaced by the a new fw for the oppo proper.

2. a beta firmware is one that is being tested for errors--the 1224 isn't a beta and b at the end of a firmware, eg., 1111b, stands for black remote not beta (in case that through you)

This isn't correct. 1224 is firmware for US players. 1226 is the equivalent firmware for European players. The big changes in 1224 are DVI synch changes which fix image shift issues with certain TVs, and additional audio delay options. There are also some processing changes at 1080i which seem to have improved PQ compared to 1111B. You can only get the 1224 firmware by emailing Oppo; they haven't put it on their web site since it has a bug that causes errors when the audio delay is set to 120ms.

That being said, I am running 1224 and like it better than any previous firmware, so I am going to stay with it until the next official release.

Thanks for your quick replies Dave.

Back to question 3. Do you think I should roll back or just use the horizontal image shift in my PJ? Or will that introduce PQ issues?

What' a layer? :confused:

Thanks again,
Rob

If you are using a projection TV via DVI and the image is shifted to the right, it is worth trying 1224 since it addresses that problem.

Layers: DVDs and CDs are composed of thin sheets of different materials sandwiched together. CDs have a single surface on which data is recorded, but DVDs can have multiple layers containing data. These layers are semi transparent, so a DVD player can read data from different layers by changing the focus of its laser. A single layer on a DVD holds about 4.5 gigabytes of data, but most DVD movies take up quite a bit more space than that. So the movie is recorded on two layers of the disc.

When playback reaches the end of the first layer, the player has to change its focus to the second layer of the disc and resume playing from there. Some players have a noticeable pause when they do this. The Oppo generally doesn't have a noticeable pause when it changes layers on a DVD.

Josh Z,

What other DVD players have you used besides the Oppo? How did they compare to it (videowise)? My Oppo is due this week; I'm currently using the Panasonic XP-30.

When playback reaches the end of the first layer, the player has to change its focus to the second layer of the disc and resume playing from there. Some players have a noticeable pause when they do this. The Oppo generally doesn't have a noticeable pause when it changes layers on a DVD.

The Oppo has the shortest delay (like '0+' ) when switching layers I have seen so far against any players I've used in the past.

I fired up my Oppo over dvi to hdmi cable last night with a BenQ PE7700. I have vertical lines of pixelation going down the screen almost like they are evenly spaced apart. The lines are there pretty much all the time. When the lines go through peoples faces there skin tone pixelates and changes to a lighter shade of color. I set everything up according to what I have read in the forum, and still no luck. Also tried a new cable but same effect. I tried different movies, but still have the same effect. I have tried all the firmware updates too. My panny S97 does not display this problem. Has anyone seen anything like this? Any ideas on how to fix this???

Thanks, Steve

steve4459,

Is this the DVI>HDMI cable that came with the Oppo - at least the same length?

Dana

I'm having a problem upgrading (or backgrading) firmware. Oppo support suggested that I step back to 1022-b and I followed, as well as I could, the posted directions for downloading the file and burning the iso image. But when I inserted the CD the process seemed to hang up in the copy phase. After several minutes the screen changed its message to "copy retry", and then after several more minutes, the display indicated "Checksum fail". I ejected the disc with no harm done. So where did I go wrong?

Thanks,
Bob

steve4459,

Is this the DVI>HDMI cable that came with the Oppo - at least the same length?

Dana


Yes, I tried the Oppo cable and I tried a 3ft. hdmi cable with a dvi adapter from Ram electronics. And still the same problem. Have any ideas???


Steve

I fired up my Oppo over dvi to hdmi cable last night with a BenQ PE7700. I have vertical lines of pixelation going down the screen almost like they are evenly spaced apart. The lines are there pretty much all the time. When the lines go through peoples faces there skin tone pixelates and changes to a lighter shade of color. I set everything up according to what I have read in the forum, and still no luck. Also tried a new cable but same effect. I tried different movies, but still have the same effect. I have tried all the firmware updates too. My panny S97 does not display this problem. Has anyone seen anything like this? Any ideas on how to fix this???

Thanks, Steve

Could be TV compatibility? Could be the cable itself? Could be the unit?

I am going through the same thing right now. I have a Philips PW309110d/37 with and HDMI input. The TV only recognizes 480p. Others in the forums have the exact same set-up with no problem. I will be trying a new cable soon and also trying the HDMI out of my PVR to see if it is the HDMI input.

Sorry to ask, but did you use the cable that you are using for the Oppo on the Panny? I saw that you tried the different cable on the Oppo with the adapter. If there is no problem, I would assume that there is an issue with the Oppo and would contact customer support.

I'm having a problem upgrading (or backgrading) firmware. Oppo support suggested that I step back to 1022-b and I followed, as well as I could, the posted directions for downloading the file and burning the iso image. But when I inserted the CD the process seemed to hang up in the copy phase. After several minutes the screen changed its message to "copy retry", and then after several more minutes, the display indicated "Checksum fail". I ejected the disc with no harm done. So where did I go wrong?

Thanks,
Bob

It sounds like the ISO you downloaded has become currupt in some manner. Delete the current ISO and download a fresh copy off of the 1022 download page and try again.

Steve,

Is it possible to try the OPDV971H on another DVI/HDMI based display device for diagnostic purposes? It is very likely that the DVI board on the OPDV971H is not working correctly, but to save time and money (OPPO's) I would the DVD player on another device, such as a PC monitor.

So why cant some one just post it (the new code 1224/6) and mark it as BETA with a disclaimer on the web site?

We are all capable of testing Beta software and then backing out to the old version if something does not work right.

Otherwise OPPO is going to get flodded with emails asking for it.

I can live with the small bug (just wont do it).

"You can only get the 1224 firmware by emailing Oppo; they haven't put it on their web site since it has a bug that causes errors when the audio delay is set to 120ms."

What other DVD players have you used besides the Oppo? How did they compare to it (videowise)? My Oppo is due this week; I'm currently using the Panasonic XP-30.

My primary DVD player is a Denon 1600, which has most of the same internal components as your XP30.

I still prefer the picture on the Denon and use it as my default for Region 1 discs, but the Oppo is certainly the best region-free DVD player I've ever owned (and I've owned a bunch). The Oppo's big advantages for most users are its DVI output and upscaling, but I had the Denon SDI modified and it's connected to an iScan VP30 video processor, which evens the playing field. Under those circumstances, for me the Denon provides a slightly sharper, more detailed picture. The results are close, though.

So why cant some one just post it (the new code 1224/6) and mark it as BETA with a disclaimer on the web site?

We are all capable of testing Beta software and then backing out to the old version if something does not work right.

Otherwise OPPO is going to get flodded with emails asking for it.

I can live with the small bug (just wont do it).

"You can only get the 1224 firmware by emailing Oppo; they haven't put it on their web site since it has a bug that causes errors when the audio delay is set to 120ms."

Because alot of people could install it and not know what beta means :)

Also they said a new version was due real soon, thats why they dont want to spread the 0126 build.

So why cant some one just post it (the new code 1224/6) and mark it as BETA with a disclaimer on the web site?

We are all capable of testing Beta software and then backing out to the old version if something does not work right.

Otherwise OPPO is going to get flodded with emails asking for it.

I can live with the small bug (just wont do it).

"You can only get the 1224 firmware by emailing Oppo; they haven't put it on their web site since it has a bug that causes errors when the audio delay is set to 120ms."

The simple reason that it is a beta is why OPPO and other manufacturers usually do not post them on their websites. It is their liability if something goes wrong with their software. A beta firmware may contain very nasty bugs in them, and no company really wants to be put in the position that their product could become potentially ruined. Convenience is not always the best solution.

On a side note, I did see MB for the first time last night while watching "Oh Brother" and I'm not sure how to address that.

Thanks for the help,
RobSee this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6811617&&#post6811617).

Gary

I fired up my Oppo over dvi to hdmi cable last night with a BenQ PE7700. I have vertical lines of pixelation going down the screen almost like they are evenly spaced apart. The lines are there pretty much all the time. When the lines go through peoples faces there skin tone pixelates and changes to a lighter shade of color. I set everything up according to what I have read in the forum, and still no luck. Also tried a new cable but same effect. I tried different movies, but still have the same effect. I have tried all the firmware updates too. My panny S97 does not display this problem. Has anyone seen anything like this? Any ideas on how to fix this???
You are in the correct display mode, right? You press the DVI button on the remote to cycle between 480p, 720p, and 1080i.

Steve,

Is it possible to try the OPDV971H on another DVI/HDMI based display device for diagnostic purposes? It is very likely that the DVI board on the OPDV971H is not working correctly, but to save time and money (OPPO's) I would the DVD player on another device, such as a PC monitor.


OK, I took the Oppo player over to my brothers house to test it on his Optoma H31 projector. Tested this unit with a few different hdmi and dvi cables at 480p, 720p, and 1080i. The same problems exist on his projector as they did on mine. So, that leaves me with a defective unit. The only problem is I traded some superbit movies for this player with a fellow forum member, so I kinda feel I am left with no alternatives. If I get the reciept from the forum member that I got it from, will Oppo warranty this player??? Thanks for everyones help.

Steve

The only problem is I traded some superbit movies for this player with a fellow forum member, so I kinda feel I am left with no alternatives. If I get the reciept from the forum member that I got it from, will Oppo warranty this player??? Thanks for everyones help. Well, that gets kinda tricky. Ask OPPO customer service. Otherwise, get your buddy to send it in. Why did he trade a dud unit anyway?

This isn't correct. 1224 is firmware for US players. 1226 is the equivalent firmware for European players. The big changes in 1224 are DVI synch changes which fix image shift issues with certain TVs, and additional audio delay options. There are also some processing changes at 1080i which seem to have improved PQ compared to 1111B. You can only get the 1224 firmware by emailing Oppo; they haven't put it on their web site since it has a bug that causes errors when the audio delay is set to 120ms.

That being said, I am running 1224 and like it better than any previous firmware, so I am going to stay with it until the next official release.

Sorry, my mistake--they are, though, basically the same it's just that the 1226 defaults to PAL.

Dave

If I get the reciept from the forum member that I got it from, will Oppo warranty this player??? Thanks for everyones help.

I have found Oppo's CS folks to be extremely helpful and friendly. Since you have a legitimate sales receipt, I can't imagine they'd give you a hard time. What if you had gotten this unit as a gift?

/steve

Hello everyone,

I just got the Oppo player to go along with the Sony 60" SXRD RPTV I got just before the Super Bowl (Oppo->Sony via DVI->HDMI). I've been experimenting and it seems that while setting up and testing with Star Wars Ep. 3 RotS, some of the scenes come out really crisp (generally closeups), but others come out fairly soft (generally shots that are "pulled back"). Then I switch to Season 1 of Friends, and it seemed really harsh as far as jagged edges. So I thought maybe it's the interlacing part (in 1080i mode), so I thought maybe sending the Sony a progressive signal might help. (I know the Sony is supposed to upscale as well, supposedly.) When I changed the Oppo's DVI output to 720p, things did seem to improve as far as sharpened edges. Does this sound logical to others on the forum? Does anyone have a Sony SXRD as well that might have some tips as far as settings?

Overall, I'm happy with the player... I guess I might be expecting too much from the DVDs after seeing movies in HD over TW Digital Cable. I tried going with SW Ep. 3 since that was supposed to be all digital, but as I said, some parts seemed kind of blurry/soft. Kind of the oppo-site ;) of what I was expecting. Still, overall, a great player for the price. I just guess the higher end TVs point out the limitations of the media we are watching on them!

Again, any tips?

Thanks!
-Tony

The only problem is I traded some superbit movies for this player with a fellow forum member, so I kinda feel I am left with no alternatives. If I get the reciept from the forum member that I got it from, will Oppo warranty this player??? Thanks for everyones help.

Steve

Likely they will want to bring back the unit for inspection and repair, because the unit is no longer within the 30 day purchase period (of which they send our new units for replacement). If you butter them up, you may beable to get an AR, but this will require your credit card number (a direct means to charge you if you do not send in your defective unit).

Hello everyone,

I just got the Oppo player to go along with the Sony 60" SXRD RPTV I got just before the Super Bowl (Oppo->Sony via DVI->HDMI). I've been experimenting and it seems that while setting up and testing with Star Wars Ep. 3 RotS, some of the scenes come out really crisp (generally closeups), but others come out fairly soft (generally shots that are "pulled back"). Then I switch to Season 1 of Friends, and it seemed really harsh as far as jagged edges. So I thought maybe it's the interlacing part (in 1080i mode), so I thought maybe sending the Sony a progressive signal might help. (I know the Sony is supposed to upscale as well, supposedly.) When I changed the Oppo's DVI output to 720p, things did seem to improve as far as sharpened edges. Does this sound logical to others on the forum? Does anyone have a Sony SXRD as well that might have some tips as far as settings?

Overall, I'm happy with the player... I guess I might be expecting too much from the DVDs after seeing movies in HD over TW Digital Cable. I tried going with SW Ep. 3 since that was supposed to be all digital, but as I said, some parts seemed kind of blurry/soft. Kind of the oppo-site ;) of what I was expecting. Still, overall, a great player for the price. I just guess the higher end TVs point out the limitations of the media we are watching on them!

Again, any tips?

Thanks!
-Tony


It might be expectations: on a 60" TV there's only so much that can be done for a SD DVD especially in those awkward mid shots. If close ups are sharp then your are probably set up fine. Also, as Friends is an off TV thing it may have been interlaced at source and never mastered well--that's a common experience with TV shows.

Sometimes we enthusiasts need to take a deep breath and realize that DVD was invented for use on SD CRT TVs up to about 32"--it's something of a miracle that we can get even good, let alone often startlingly good images out of this 10 year old technology on screens from 60"-100".

Dave

Hello everyone,

I just got the Oppo player to go along with the Sony 60" SXRD RPTV I got just before the Super Bowl (Oppo->Sony via DVI->HDMI). I've been experimenting and it seems that while setting up and testing with Star Wars Ep. 3 RotS, some of the scenes come out really crisp (generally closeups), but others come out fairly soft (generally shots that are "pulled back"). Then I switch to Season 1 of Friends, and it seemed really harsh as far as jagged edges. So I thought maybe it's the interlacing part (in 1080i mode), so I thought maybe sending the Sony a progressive signal might help. (I know the Sony is supposed to upscale as well, supposedly.) When I changed the Oppo's DVI output to 720p, things did seem to improve as far as sharpened edges. Does this sound logical to others on the forum? Does anyone have a Sony SXRD as well that might have some tips as far as settings?

Overall, I'm happy with the player... I guess I might be expecting too much from the DVDs after seeing movies in HD over TW Digital Cable. I tried going with SW Ep. 3 since that was supposed to be all digital, but as I said, some parts seemed kind of blurry/soft. Kind of the oppo-site ;) of what I was expecting. Still, overall, a great player for the price. I just guess the higher end TVs point out the limitations of the media we are watching on them!

Again, any tips?

Thanks!
-Tony

Is the Friends A/R 4:3? If so, it may be the lowered resolution the Oppo uses in the Wide/Squeeze mode. Are you able to let your TV do the pillarboxing?

Again, any tips?

Thanks!
-Tony

IMHO, unless you know for certain the display has excellent 1080i deinterlaing capability, sending a progressive signal from the OPPO is preferred.

I would have assumed your Sony might have processing equal to the new Ruby. But it's also possible it is no better than what's in the HS-51/51A LCD projectors, which is not very good. These projectors do much better with 720p instead of 1080i from the OPPO.

If the OPPO ever gets updated to do 1080p, it might become the best choice, but for now go with 720p.

Last night I was trying to finish painting my HT (to no avail) and decide to site down and watch the wonderful picture that the OPPO puts out on my Panny900.

I threw in "The Iron Giant" Yeah, I know its a kids movie but I guess there's still a little bit of one left in there somewhere.

Anyway, for an older non-digital animation, the picture was quite nice. I can't comment on the colors as it appears to be done in the older Johny Quest type look, but needless to say the rendition was great.

Last night I think I was introduced to the audio lag that everyone is talking about but I'm not sure. As the movie was running, the picture would freeze for an instant and then go again and then the audio would be off a bit. It even happen once for 2-3 seconds and I thought ther was a layer changing problem that has been explained to me.

Am I seeing the audio sync issue or could it be something else. I may have to back up to the 1022 or contact OPPO and get the 1224.

Thanks for the input,
Rob

Am I seeing the audio sync issue or could it be something else. I may have to back up to the 1022 or contact OPPO and get the 1224. Just wait for the next official release.

Gary

Last night I think I was introduced to the audio lag that everyone is talking about but I'm not sure. As the movie was running, the picture would freeze for an instant and then go again and then the audio would be off a bit.

The audio lag problem others are talking about does not involve the picture freezing. The picture plays smoothly, but the audio erratically drifts out of sync.

It sounds like something else is wrong in your system. Was the disc scratched?

Is the Friends A/R 4:3? If so, it may be the lowered resolution the Oppo uses in the Wide/Squeeze mode. Are you able to let your TV do the pillarboxing?

Friends' A/R is 4:3... Since the Sony is new to me, I am not sure if it can do the pillarboxing. I do know that it has Full, Zoom, and Wide Zoom, but I don't think any of that applies to the pillarboxing other than the 4:3 would be distorted if it was set to anything other than Full. I need to check and see if there are other settings, because I believe there might have been another setting that could apply.

To those that replied, thanks for your input! And if anyone out there has anymore tips or insight on settings to better mate this Oppo to the Sony SXRD, please post!

Thanks again! :)
-Anthony

The audio lag problem others are talking about does not involve the picture freezing. The picture plays smoothly, but the audio erratically drifts out of sync.

It sounds like something else is wrong in your system. Was the disc scratched?

Nope, brand new from CH.

Why would the audio stay in tact then? In the audio sync issues doesn't the video trail the audio? That's what I was seeing and hearing. Audio first.

Rob

Nope, brand new from CH.

Why would the audio stay in tact then? In the audio sync issues doesn't the video trail the audio? That's what I was seeing and hearing. Audio first.

Rob

If you are getting picture freezing then there is something wrong with either the DVD or the player. The fact that the audio remains normal suggests to me that it might be the player as usually when a disc freezes the sound breaks up too. Test a few other discs, and in the meantime report your findings to oppo directly--they usually respond same day.

Dave

Nope, brand new from CH.

Why would the audio stay in tact then? In the audio sync issues doesn't the video trail the audio? That's what I was seeing and hearing. Audio first.

Rob

If you are getting picture freezing then there is something wrong with either the DVD or the player. The fact that the audio remains normal suggests to me that it might be the player at fault as often when a disc freezes the sound breaks up too.

Test a few other discs, and in the meantime report your findings to oppo directly--they usually respond same day.

In the known synch issues the video lags behind the audio--hence the need for audio delay to counter it.

Dave

Friends' A/R is 4:3... Since the Sony is new to me, I am not sure if it can do the pillarboxing. I do know that it has Full, Zoom, and Wide Zoom, but I don't think any of that applies to the pillarboxing other than the 4:3 would be distorted if it was set to anything other than Full. I need to check and see if there are other settings, because I believe there might have been another setting that could apply.

To those that replied, thanks for your input! And if anyone out there has anymore tips or insight on settings to better mate this Oppo to the Sony SXRD, please post!

Thanks again! :)
-Anthony
The alternative to using Wide/SQZ on the Oppo is to set the Oppo to Wide, and change the DVI output to 480p. When you're in 480p, the WIDE button on the Sony will give you four choices: Normal, Full, Zoom, and Wide Zoom. Normal will display the signal "unstretched", in the proper 4:3 aspect ratio.

Also, "Zoom" on the SXRD does not distort the picture, it just zooms in so the sides of a 4:3 image are at the edges of the screen, without altering proportions. It's useful when watching non-anamorphic widescreen transfers on the Oppo; either with Wide/SQZ at 720p/1080i, or Wide at 480p, you can use Zoom to fill the screen with the picture (although you'll definitely see the loss of resolution inherent in a non-anamorphic transfer).

Nope, brand new from CH.

Why would the audio stay in tact then? In the audio sync issues doesn't the video trail the audio? That's what I was seeing and hearing. Audio first.

Rob


Is the DVD that is giving you problems a new commercial DVD or one that you burned on a DVD recorder? To me the problem sounds like the stutter problem that is common with the Oppo on DVDs that are burned on a DVD STB recorder.

Who is CH?

I havent posted in a while - but talk about history repeating itself. I have to sort of agree with thebland on this one - but yeah every player has issues.

It does seem though that people are always trying to tweak that last 2% (at best) improvement out of SD image quality with upscaling players - myself included. I've got a Momitsu V880 which was pretty trendy a few years ago. I updated the firmware 2 or 3 times and struggled with loader issues and a bunch of other little things. Tweak tweak and tweak away.

Even if the image improvement is 2% (which I seriously doubt), God the problems! Loader issues, Lip synch issues, Macroblocking, pixel cropping, blacker than black etc etc etc. So SECRETS thinks the OPPO is great eh? Too bad they don't consider Macroblocking in their ranking! That FL3210 is a piece of CRAP. No way I'd accept that chip in a player for the marginal, if any, benefits it otherwise provides.

So I went out and bought a Panasonic XP-50 used on this forum. I send 480i to my BenQ 8700 over component and let the BenQ's capable Sil504 processor and internal scaler handle things. I've done input comparisons with to Momitsu and I'll tell you... No real difference! The colors are actually more vibrant from the XP-50, but resolution is basically identical to my eye. I think DVI/HDMI obsession is frankly not worth it. The analog conversion is not that big a deal.

But more importantly, I can watch everything and not worry. No freezing, skipping, lip synch, macroblocking, combing, ghosting. Just the movie! I know that the Panasonic RP82/XP-30/XP-50 and its cousin the Denon 1600 is no longer a trendy breed of player but the FL2200 is a much better chip.

Until I get a real HD DVD Player, you'll have to pry my XP-50 out of my cold dead hands. My Momitsu on the other hand.... LOL

Those who have never owned or used an Oppo should refrain from complaining about things they have no actual experience with.

My Oppo arrives tomorrow. As a participant in other threads on AVS, I of course scanned all your opinions on here before ordering. Seems just what I need as my Philips DVP642 has started acting up (but I got my $60 out of that box :-)

FWIW, I was gonna order it from Amazon, but they had a shipping date of 2/14, so I ordered right from Oppo, sent out the same day, 2 day air.

I'll post my thoughts tomorrow night! Its gonna be hooked to my Philips 42" Plasma (42PF7320A)

Those who have never owned or used an Oppo should refrain from complaining about things they have no actual experience with.

Whatever. 3000 posts, plenty of problems. Well known problems with the FL3210.
I need to buy the OPPO to gain first hand experience?

And Secrets doesnt account for Macroblocking. Why is that?

Whatever. 3000 posts, plenty of problems. Well known problems with the FL3210.
I need to buy the OPPO to gain first hand experience?

And Secrets doesnt account for Macroblocking. Why is that?


Panasonic XP-50 is not an option for most, as they are no longer available new. For those that can find them, don't mind used equipment, and have other means of upscaling in their display, that is great! We all know about the FL3210, you aren't adding any new information to the thread.

As for macroblocking, I don't have any on my properly calibrated AE700, so it is not an issue for me.

My co-worker bought an XP-30 yesterday on this forum. Used of course. No I'm not adding anything other than what thebland was trying to add - a sanity check.

But nobody wants to hear it so I'll stop. I do hope this OPPO or the next will be "the" DVI machine. Peace.

Is the DVD that is giving you problems a new commercial DVD or one that you burned on a DVD recorder? To me the problem sounds like the stutter problem that is common with the Oppo on DVDs that are burned on a DVD STB recorder.

Who is CH?

CH = Columbia House. That's where I got it.

I will test some other discs as soon as I can. I just Re-signed up with them and I've got some older ones that I know are good as well as new ones to check.

Come to think of it, I put Prince of Egypt in a day or so before The Iron Giant and the OPPO had a hell of a time reading it. ("No Disc") But once it did "find" it everything was fine.

Maybe Columbia House has a company that is doing bad recordings?

Rob

Those who have never owned or used an Oppo should refrain from complaining about things they have no actual experience with.

Agreed! If I listened to all the people who were spouting off their uninformed opinions on these threads, I would have never bought my Sony SXRD, which the more I watch, the more I love it!

I don't know if I'll ever understand what motivates someone to spend their time and energy to spread negative info. about a product they don't even own. If you buy it and you don't like it, then okay, post about your experience and ask questions in the hopes that someone can share some knowledge that might help your problem.

All I know is I am way too busy to spend time searching threads on stuff I do not own or have no intention of owning, much less trolling for a flame war. I barely have enough time to search through these forums to get info. on potential purcahses or tips on getting the most out of the equip. I *do* own!

It really makes you wonder what the agenda is that motivates people to slam a product that they don't own.

-Tony

I'm currently using XP50 as my main player, but the inability to make it region free makes me want to replace it with the Oppo.

Will I see minor or major improvements on my Hitachi 50V500 RPLCD? Is it worth the upgrade?

Thanks.

Agreed! If I listened to all the people who were spouting off their uninformed opinions on these threads...
-Tony

How am I uninformed? I was aware of the problems and have personal experience with the Faroujda chipsets and upscaling DVI/HDMI players. I've been through the Bravo and Momitsu saga of problems and I'm expressing my frustration with upscaling players - especially ones using the FLI3210. Go read about the Zenith and LG models and the Panasonic S97.

How is that not relevant?

Consider this macroblocking mess Faroujda has created and all the players infected - Zenith, LG and Denon models, the OPPO and others. And SECRET's ranking and heralding players *with this chip* but without consideration of the bug. Sorry I think it is rediculous.

I'm not saying the OPPO is a bad player. It has peers with similar issues that's all. People in the last few days have been asked pointed questions such as - is the OPPO better than the RP82 in image quality? Go take a look at the answers before dumping that XP-50 in favor of the OPPO.

So why do I bother bringing it up or "trolling" as I'm accused? Because there is a mystique that SD upscaling has a huge impact on the image and that adding the FL3210 to the mix (over the Sigma board for example) is going to improve the situation. In some ways yes, in others it introduces issues. Now you have lip synch and macroblocking. Hopefully the lip synch issue will be handled in a firmware release. The macroblocking however, will NEVER be fixed.

But I guess I don't know what I'm talking about. I'm a troll after all.

But more importantly, I can watch everything and not worry. No freezing, skipping, lip synch, macroblocking, combing, ghosting. Just the movie!

And I can do all this with the OPDV971H. No, wait, if a single person has complained about the issue, it must be indicative of the entire product. So I recant my previous statements.

The OPDV971H is not for everyone, and people on these forums (and others) are well aware of this. I would never recommend this DVD player if I felt there were direct issues associated to using it with a specific display device. However, as a general "what should I buy?" question, the OPDV971H is the first device that slips off my tongue.

...I need to buy the OPPO to gain first hand experience?...
How else does one gain "first hand experience?"

How else does one gain "first hand experience?"

You think the OPPO's components are unique? Looks like thebland was smarter than I am. He left the thread. Good luck guys. Hope your firmware updates go well.

...So why do I bother bringing it up or "trolling" as I'm accused? Because there is a mystique that SD upscaling has a huge impact on the image and that adding the FL3210 to the mix (over the Sigma board for example) is going to improve the situation. In some ways yes, in others it introduces issues. Now you have lip synch and macroblocking. Hopefully the lip synch issue will be handled in a firmware release. The macroblocking however, will NEVER be fixed.

But I guess I don't know what I'm talking about. I'm a troll after all.
SD upscaling may not have a huge impact on picture quality? So what?

I didn't buy the Oppo for its upscaling capability, and I wouldn't be surprised to find out that many, many others could say the same thing.

I purchased the Oppo because it has a much superior processing suite than my tv does. Complement that with the digital interface and dvds have never looked better on my set.

Macroblocking will "NEVER" be fixed? So what?

I have yet to see any macroblocking, so I'm not looking to Oppo to resolve a problem I don't have.

However, some folks just might hope to improve the quality of their SD viewing by buying an upconverting player - what business is that of yours? I seriously doubt there's anyone around waiting for someone like you to bring them out of their fog of misunderstanding. Do you feel compelled to save folks from buying an Oppo to improve their dvd viewing quality?

You've offered no new information. Not a single thread of solution or recommendation. Just complaining. Was it good for you?

Todd,

most macroblocking annoyance can be calibrated out of the display. My BenQ 8700+ was easily tweaked to provide an INCREDIBLE picture with the OPPO with macroblocking only RARELY IF EVER beeing seen.

BTW,

the OPPO has definitely improved the image quality of my SD DVD software. It's the best-looking image I've ever seen from DVD. I could not go back to 480I/P analog or any other upscaling DVI player...the OPPO produces the best picture I've seen by far. I haven't compared it to high-priced $$ HDMI upscaling players like the pioneer...but those aren't options given my budget, and if the Bravo looks anything like the Momitsu, I can assure you that the OPPO would produce a noticable gain in picture quality.

Todd,

most macroblocking annoyance can be calibrated out of the display. My BenQ 8700+ was easily tweaked to provide an INCREDIBLE picture with the OPPO with macroblocking only RARELY IF EVER beeing seen.

BTW,

the OPPO has definitely improved the image quality of my SD DVD software. It's the best-looking image I've ever seen from DVD. I could not go back to 480I/P analog or any other upscaling DVI player...the OPPO produces the best picture I've seen by far. I haven't compared it to high-priced $$ HDMI upscaling players like the pioneer...but those aren't options given my budget, and if the Bravo looks anything like the Momitsu, I can assure you that the OPPO would produce a noticable gain in picture quality.

I figured you'd see I got myself in hot water here LOL. I've seen macroblocking and its not pretty - but never on my projector. Glad to hear yours looks great.

You think the OPPO's components are unique? Looks like thebland was smarter than I am. He left the thread. Good luck guys. Hope your firmware updates go well.

hmmm...
I kinda wish we could move on...

Speaking of firmware, shouldn't the next official FW be released very soon?
(My own communications, as well as other's, with Oppo CS indicated a scheduled release for this week!)

Has anyone had a recent communication with Oppo regarding whether or not the official FW is still slated for release? Tomorrow, perhaps?

Peter

(I was also informed by Oppo of an early March release of an official FW that will target some PAL synch issues, which would be welcomed by users such as myself with some PAL titles in their collection, though the Oppo does an admirable job of conversion as it stands, despite a modest shift/offset issue with my Panny plasma)

You think the OPPO's components are unique? Looks like thebland was smarter than I am. He left the thread. Good luck guys. Hope your firmware updates go well.

And he's still smarter. You posted 1h 17min later after you told us good luck :p

Rob

And he's still smarter. You posted 1h 17min later after you told us good luck :p

Rob



LOL, Good one :D

And he's still smarter. You posted 1h 17min later after you told us good luck :p

Rob

Well I just wanted to wish you REALLY good luck this time! ;)

Received my Oppo today. However, it's real cold since it was on my porch when I got home. Should I wait until it adjusts to room temperature before hooking it up?

Received my Oppo today. However, it's real cold since it was on my porch when I got home. Should I wait until it adjusts to room temperature before hooking it up?Yes, that's a good idea with any electronics, to avoid condensation problems. An hour should be plenty.

Gary

Heres my problem, I got a 65" RPTV HD. The wife and kids dont like the black bars, I dont either. I know we should live with em, but its personal preference, we just dont like them.

Using the OPPO with 480P and letting the Sony do ZOOM will I still get a pretty good picture, or do I loose the main purpose of this DVD Play and that is 720p and 1080i. My Sony only does Zoom modes in 480i and 480p.

I will still use the HDMI cable.

Any one else doing 480P or is everyone upconverting?

Heres my problem, I got a 65" RPTV HD. The wife and kids dont like the black bars, I dont either. I know we should live with em, but its personal preference, we just dont like them.

Using the OPPO with 480P and letting the Sony do ZOOM will I still get a pretty good picture, or do I loose the main purpose of this DVD Play and that is 720p and 1080i. My Sony only does Zoom modes in 480i and 480p.

I will still use the HDMI cable.

Any one else doing 480P or is everyone upconverting?

I just got mine yesterday from Amazon. Unfortunately, they sent me old stock, so it didn't come with the HDMI-DVI cable, plus it had the old remote. E-mailed Oppo CS, and they're sending me both parts no charge. That's fantastic service!

In the meantime, I've been running of the 480P component side into my Hitachi 42HDT52 and gotta say it looks fantastic! Everything looks clean, sharp, bright and close as anything I've seen to HD apart from true HD.

Can't wait to try the HDMI connect. Hope it works, but if not, I know I have a great image through the component feed.

edit... OK, so my response wasn't directly relevant to your question, but I wanted to share my story anyhow! I tried different scaling via both the Oppo and my display. The picture degraded slightly, but not bad at all. Certainly better than my old player and worlds apart from my Dish receiver. I would imagine your Sony will do a fine job with the 480P signal from the Oppo.

Heres my problem, I got a 65" RPTV HD. The wife and kids dont like the black bars, I dont either. I know we should live with em, but its personal preference, we just dont like them.

Using the OPPO with 480P and letting the Sony do ZOOM will I still get a pretty good picture, or do I loose the main purpose of this DVD Play and that is 720p and 1080i. My Sony only does Zoom modes in 480i and 480p.

I will still use the HDMI cable.

Any one else doing 480P or is everyone upconverting?


If you want to get anything like the best out of the oppo it's time to start loving the bars. If you play at 480p and let the display scale you lose half of the oppo's point, i.e., its upscaling, but you still get the beneifit of the other half, its de-interlacing. But the main problem is you can lose up to a third of the picture.

Also, SD DVD blown up that big will seriously start to show its limitations if you add a zoom into the mix.

I say hail the black bars, they let me know I'm seeing what I should. It's not something you should just put up with, it's an advance in movie presentation that we all should celebrate! Maybe if you give yourself time to get used to it you can modify your preferences?

Though I appreciate that explaining that to the kids--who just want BIG!--might be a problem--at first. But kids also don't want to miss anything, so maybe there's a way forward...? Good luck.

Dave

I just got mine yesterday from Amazon. Unfortunately, they sent me old stock, so it didn't come with the HDMI-DVI cable, plus it had the old remote. E-mailed Oppo CS, and they're sending me both parts no charge. That's fantastic service!

In the meantime, I've been running of the 480P component side into my Hitachi 42HDT52 and gotta say it looks fantastic! Everything looks clean, sharp, bright and close as anything I've seen to HD apart from true HD.

Can't wait to try the HDMI connect. Hope it works, but if not, I know I have a great image through the component feed.

edit... OK, so my response wasn't directly relevant to your question, but I wanted to share my story anyhow! I tried different scaling via both the Oppo and my display. The picture degraded slightly, but not bad at all. Certainly better than my old player and worlds apart from my Dish receiver. I would imagine your Sony will do a fine job with the 480P signal from the Oppo.

If you are running component, you are running 480i, not 480p. For some odd reason, the Oppo does not have progressive scan capability over component.

I've tried to search through this thread to find any mention of my problem but was not able to find any..

My Oppo has a problen displaying in 720p , all other modes seem to display properly includiing 1080i but when I switch to 720p what I get is basically get is an image that is horizonatlly off by about half the screen size. Has anyone else seen this? I and connected via DVI

In the meantime, I've been running of the 480P component side into my Hitachi 42HDT52 and gotta say it looks fantastic! Everything looks clean, sharp, bright and close as anything I've seen to HD apart from true HD.
If you are running component, you are running 480i, not 480p. For some odd reason, the Oppo does not have progressive scan capability over component.
As a matter of fact, if you're using component (which is 480i-only on the Oppo), then you're not even taking advantage of the Oppo's core strength, which is the Faroudja FLI2310 chip, and which only operates on the DVI output.

As I understand the engineering issues which underlie the 480i-only limitation for component:

1) For whatever reason, the BBK engineers who originally designed the player put the Faroudja chip on the DVI output board, so it only operates on the digital output, and not the analogs. The analog outputs are driven by the Mediatek MPEG decoder chipset on the mainboard.

2) The Mediatek MPEG decoder feeds its output to the Faroudja chip, which is expecting a 480i data stream. Therefore, the Mediatek chip is locked into 480i mode, and that's all that's available on the analog outputs. If the Mediatek were outputting 480p (i.e., doing the deinterlacing itself), then the Faroudja chip would choke on the input data it was getting, and the digital output would fail.

So that's why you get only 480i on component -- that's all that the chip is allowed to do.

I've tried to search through this thread to find any mention of my problem but was not able to find any..

My Oppo has a problen displaying in 720p , all other modes seem to display properly includiing 1080i but when I switch to 720p what I get is basically get is an image that is horizonatlly off by about half the screen size. Has anyone else seen this? I and connected via DVI

Did you check the FAQs, first post on the thread? Off set picture is often a synch issue, and one which some recent firmwares not helped. Try the 1022b firmware (link posted on the first post on this thread) and see if it helps. This was the last firmware released before the problem.

Dave

If you are running component, you are running 480i, not 480p. For some odd reason, the Oppo does not have progressive scan capability over component.
well dang, even better then! This thing rocks!!!

Did you check the FAQs, first post on the thread? Off set picture is often a synch issue, and one which some recent firmwares not helped. Try the 1022b firmware (link posted on the first post on this thread) and see if it helps. This was the last firmware released before the problem.

Dave

Actually I did, but didn't realize that was the same issue. I will have to check my firmware version when I get home, I just got the player this week.

If you're experiencing lip-sync issues with the Oppo - but aren't quite sure how to correctly measure the delay - check out this test DVD that I made:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=642950

Did you check the FAQs, first post on the thread? Off set picture is often a synch issue, and one which some recent firmwares not helped. Try the 1022b firmware (link posted on the first post on this thread) and see if it helps. This was the last firmware released before the problem.

Dave


I also contacted Oppo about the issue this morning and they just sent me the beta firmware OP971-F-0126Async.iso , so I will give that a shot. Impressive customer support.

Got my Oppo this morning! First impressions are good. HDMI-DVI to my 42" Phillips Plasma, at 1080i. Of course easy to hook up and get up and running.

Watched about 1/2 of Sin City, flipping through scenes. Looks so great.

Watching Opeth DVD now (that's a music concert DVD), notice a bit of macroblocking in the blacks, not seen in Sin City.

Now my question is - since my TV can do 720P, isn't progressive scan better than the 1080i? This has always confused me a bit ... more resolution, but not progressive.

trust your eyes.
Javry

trust your eyes.
Javry


HAha, that's great, cause I was just watching that part of Evil Dead when the girl screams "HER EYES! What's wrong with her eyes!"

HAha, that's great, cause I was just watching that part of Evil Dead when the girl screams "HER EYES! What's wrong with her eyes!"

LOL I love that movie. Do you have the The Evil Dead (Book Of The Dead Limited Edition version with the latex case? Great DVD I got them both just for the cases.

Nope just the normal ones, but I should get them as my Evil Dead 2 DVD is messed up.

Nope just the normal ones, but I should get them as my Evil Dead 2 DVD is messed up.
That's great guys. Now please remind us why the rest of us should care?

Now my question is - since my TV can do 720P, isn't progressive scan better than the 1080i? This has always confused me a bit ... more resolution, but not progressive.
Unless your display or video processor can do a better deinterlacing job than the Oppo - the answer is always YES. Use 720p.

"That's great guys. Now please remind us why the rest of us should care?"


Wow, a little harsh, don't ya think? :eek:

hey all.... anyone know if oppo has any plans for upconversion over component cables in the near future?? i would really like to purchase this unit if that is an option soon!!
thanks if anyone has any inside info... dmr

hey all.... anyone know if oppo has any plans for upconversion over component cables in the near future?? i would really like to purchase this unit if that is an option soon!!
thanks if anyone has any inside info... dmr


not going to happen.

hey all.... anyone know if oppo has any plans for upconversion over component cables in the near future?? i would really like to purchase this unit if that is an option soon!!
thanks if anyone has any inside info... dmr

It's a hardware issue. See Dixie Flatline's comments in post 3434 above.

Dana

I meant with maybe a new model.. not an upgrade to the 971H......

I meant with maybe a new model.. not an upgrade to the 971H......

If you need to upconvert over Component I'd recommend a Zenith DVB318 which does this beautifully- not sure if they are still making this model but I'm almost sure you can find it online- there's a huge thread on AVS about this player. I have one hooked up to my Samsung via component which I use to play back non-anamorphic DVD's because its zooms these titles really well- much better than the horrible zoom on the Oppo. I also have the Oppo connected to same tv via DVI at 720p and thats gorgeous on Anamorphic discs.

hsinnott, so of the two players, which has the better PQ?
I would like a DVB318 except for no divx playback... I may still look for one if oppo has no plans for component upconversion in the near future..
anyone have a DVB318 they want to get rid of?

do u guys think oppo will release a hd-dvd player ?

Got my Oppo last night. I'm in the midst of rebuilding my HT since my wife gave me a hall pass. . .

Hooked it up to a Sony E50A10 and did some head-to-head with my previous player, a Philips DVD724.

At first I was nonplussed by the upconverting, but after tweaking a few of the settings (turned just about everything off except truevision), I noticed a marked improvement in a few discs. I rented Wedding Crashers, and believe it or not this has to be one of the best transfers I've seen. Picture was perfect.

Ran through a comparison on Jedi (Enter the Death Star, track 40 or so) and got improved smoother whites in the inside scenes, and better detail on the ship scenes. Not earth-shattering though. I think my old player was a bargain.

Bad transfers remain bad. Braveheart looks very fair, with a lot of graininess to it. The arrows in the Battle of Sterling show a lot of stair-stepping. I loaded Das Boot and got noticable macroblocking in the opening title, but nowhere near as bad as my old combo of the Philips/Samsung RPCRT.

I am moving on to my next purchases - speakers and AVR. I'm looking at the Yamaha RXV-1600, the Pioneer VSX 72, and the (now discontinued) Denon 3805. If I connect through the HDMI on the PIoneer or Yamaha, can they take the video from hdmi and audio from a different input? I assume that eventually I'll have an additional HDMI component and want to make sure I can make use of the HDMI switching capabilities.

hsinnott, so of the two players, which has the better PQ?
I would like a DVB318 except for no divx playback... I may still look for one if oppo has no plans for component upconversion in the near future..
anyone have a DVB318 they want to get rid of?

>>> Using the Component video cables the Zenith looks clearly better to me on my 50" Samsung DLP tv versus the Oppo component connection. The Oppo has better PQ than the Zenith though when using the DVI connection (less video noise and a smoother looker picture-brightness and color saturation are very similar)) but I'm assuming you only have component cables on your tv? I'm sure you'll be happy with the Zenith- its great for non-anamophic dvd's that need to be stretched to fill the screen.
Search the AVS forum for more info on the Zenith.

I meant with maybe a new model.. not an upgrade to the 971H......

New unit: yes. A successor to the OPDV971H will likely feature component based upconversion, and the daughter product (sans Faroudja chipset) will be out in most likely March/April, and will feature upconversion through the component output as well.

I'm sure this is covered somewhere on AVS but darned if i can find a good answer or opinion. I have had my new Oppo for about a week and am really impressed. I bought it to replace an aging Bravo D1 based mainly on comments in this forum.

My display is an RCA 52" Scenium RP (to be replaced within 6 mos). I use the DVI connection. I do not watch television and use the system exclusively to
watch DVD movies.

Am i better off adjusting bright/contrast/saturation etc. using the Oppo's or the display's controls? Set up the display using DVE or similar and then adjust the Oppo? Doing it that way the color saturation seems quite high.

I would appreciate insights and opinions. Or pointers to where in this vast forum to find guidance <g>.

Thanks very much!

Michael

Am i better off adjusting bright/contrast/saturation etc. using the Oppo's or the display's controls? Michael, it is always best to adjust the display. Read the first post in this thread for advice on setting up the OPPO. (Most of the defaults are fine). Then look for RCA threads to help with calibration of your display.

Gary

Michael, it is always best to adjust the display. Read the first post in this thread for advice on setting up the OPPO. (Most of the defaults are fine). Then look for RCA threads to help with calibration of your display.

Gary

Would caveat that by saying that as long as your DVD player (or other source component) outputs a signal that is more or less in the right range you should fine tune on the display. But if the source is way off you need to make some adjustments on the player before calibrating on your display (older FW versions of the Oppo for example where you needed to adjust contrast and brightness to ouptut video rgb instead of studio rgb) . With the latest versions of the Oppo though it's pretty much goog-to-go right out of the box and you should just calibrate your display.

Still waiting for a new firmware update.
J

hsinnott, so of the two players, which has the better PQ?
I would like a DVB318 except for no divx playback... I may still look for one if oppo has no plans for component upconversion in the near future..
anyone have a DVB318 they want to get rid of?

...you may want to prefer to hang on and wait for either a HD-DVD player or BluRay player- either will work via component connections and will both output at a higher resolution than either the Zenith or Oppo (via component)...and of course you'll have the player for the future if you purchase a new tv with HDMI inputs.

i finally got around to trying a different optical cable. problem fixed. guess it was a bad cable. weird manifestation of the problem though. new problem. on one dvd, the tray gets jammed when it opens.

I have the same problem. The dvd i watched last nignt is jammed inside the player. Pressing eject would not open the tray. The player displays "open" on the lcd screen, I waited for over 5 mins but it just stays closed. :mad:

I tried to unplug the power all night long (to force a reboot), but this morning still no success.

slocko, how did you solve your problem?

what player is it? I had that problem a few months ago with my Pani XP-30. I just took the top off the player, which exposed the closed DVD tray, then took out the DVD. After that, it started working fine again.
Javry

...you may want to prefer to hang on and wait for either a HD-DVD player or BluRay player- either will work via component connections and will both output at a higher resolution than either the Zenith or Oppo (via component)...and of course you'll have the player for the future if you purchase a new tv with HDMI inputs.

You keep on posting this advice, hsinnot, and of course you are right that the new technology will, in time, render SD players all but obsolete. However, in the meantime, most buyers still want players to get the best out of their existing DVD collection, and as has been posted here before, the oppo is almost certainly going to geive better SD performance than HD/BD players. How does advising folk to wait for HD help? It's not like the coming of HD at an affordable price in sometime in the next 2 years is news to anyone.

Just a thought--I'm not getting touchy.

Dave

what player is it? I had that problem a few months ago with my Pani XP-30. I just took the top off the player, which exposed the closed DVD tray, then took out the DVD. After that, it started working fine again.
Javry

i m reluctant to open my oppo, doesn t that void the warranty?

i m reluctant to open my oppo, doesn t that void the warranty?


I think before you do ANYTHING you should email OPPO support, they respond very fast. They sent me the beta firmware in a couple of hours to address my audio sync issues. Just shoot them an email and see what they say to do first.

I think before you do ANYTHING you should email OPPO support, they respond very fast. They sent me the beta firmware in a couple of hours to address my audio sync issues. Just shoot them an email and see what they say to do first.

Hate to suggest the "Redneck Repair" option, but my Liteon DVD recorder will sometimes jam/not open. After i push the eject button, a slight but firm whack on the top of the player with the tips of my fingers just above the door will do the trick every time.

That whacking... I call, "percussive maintenence". :)

oppo's customer service advised me to open the player, which i did, got the disc out, closed it and...same problem again, it just wouldn t eject the tray. i have the "feeling" it s a software glitch. I ll wait for customer service next suggestion tomorrow.

will keep you posted.

oppo's customer service advised me to open the player, which i did, got the disc out, closed it and...same problem again, it just wouldn t eject the tray. i have the "feeling" it s a software glitch. I ll wait for customer service next suggestion tomorrow.

will keep you posted.

You know if you e-mail them right now (yes, I know it's Sunday night), believe it or not, you'll probably have a reply within the hour. No need to wait until tomorrow.

So is there any way to fix this? Because now that I know what it is of course, I see it more often. It seems to happen more on my 32 inch sammy than the 50 inch sony.

So is there any way to fix this? Because now that I know what it is of course, I see it more often. It seems to happen more on my 32 inch sammy than the 50 inch sony.

Okay, I'll bite. What is "It?"

Dana

I know, I thought the same thing. :) He meant that rply for the MB thread.

I was beginning to think it was part of an Abbott & Costello act. The "Who's on first, what's on second..." one. :)

Dana

...you may want to prefer to hang on and wait for either a HD-DVD player or BluRay player- either will work via component connections and will both output at a higher resolution than either the Zenith or Oppo (via component)...and of course you'll have the player for the future if you purchase a new tv with HDMI inputs.
Is this really accurate? That the coming HD/BR DVD players will do their magic over component cables? Or are you saying there's some "lesser level of fidelity" that'll be offered over component cables, but short of HD?

I was under the impression that one of the reasons for the "delay" in getting these devices out to market had to do with content protection - and that such could only be achieved over a digital interface compliant with HDCP.

From what I have read, only 480 output will be available over component in the new HD players. DVI will be only output for High Definition signal from HD disks.

The same rules will apply for HD-DVD and Blu-Ray players in regards to upconversion over component for DVD. I believe the stipulation to upconvert lies in the CSS used by DVD and I imagine upconversion over dvi/hdmi with hdcp would still be required. On the other hand HD-DVD and Blu-Ray titles will allow HD resolutions over component depending on the ICT flags on the title, which will (or will not) allow full resolution over component (or down-rez up to a maximum of 960x540, which will then be upconverted to whatever resolution is set by you on the player).

Youre right, wrong thread, sorry guys.

The same rules will apply for HD-DVD and Blu-Ray players in regards to upconversion over component for DVD. I believe the stipulation to upconvert lies in the CSS used by DVD and I imagine upconversion over dvi/hdmi with hdcp would still be required. On the other hand HD-DVD and Blu-Ray titles will allow HD resolutions over component depending on the ICT flags on the title, which will (or will not) allow full resolution over component (or down-rez up to a maximum of 960x540, which will then be upconverted to whatever resolution is set by you on the player).

The info posted here http://www.crutchfield.com/S-QKGt1Zfhv3u/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?search=HD%2DA1&i=052HDA1
on the new Toshiba HD-A1 HD DVD high-definition disc player only mentions HD over HDMI. Note also for those who would wait for the new HD player vs. the Oppo that according to this rundown, the Toshiba only will play Region 1 DVDs.

Details:
» plays HD DVD high-definition discs (selectable 720p/1080i output available through HDMI output only — HDMI cable included)
» plays DVD-Video, DVD-R & DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM
» plays CD, audio CD-R & CD-RW, and MP3 and WMA CD-R & CD-RW
» selectable 720p/1080i video upconversion for DVD (upconverted video available through HDMI output only)
» built-in audio decoding for Dolby® Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD lossless (2-ch.), DTS® and DTS-HD lossless
» HDMI digital output (combines video and multichannel audio with HDCP copy protection)
» 1 set of A/V outputs (composite video, S-video, and component video)
» stereo and 5.1-channel audio outputs
» coaxial and optical digital audio outputs
» Ethernet port for access to Internet-based content
» two front-panel USB ports
» remote control (multibrand for TV)
» 216MHz/11-bit video D/A converter
» multichannel 192kHz/24-bit audio D/A converters
» 17"W x 4"H x 14"D
» warranty: 1 year parts, 90 days labor
» Want more peace of mind? Extended Service Plans Available
» viewing high-definition HD DVD content requires an HDTV or HD-ready TV with HDMI input
» DVD movie playback is restricted to "Region 1" coded discs

Still no new firmware?

I hope its this week.

drbonbi,
This subject is a little off topic to this thread, but if you follow the HD-DVD and Blu-Ray discussions here on AVS, Toshiba updated their specs and will allow HD over component now that ICT flag rules have been decided for both Blu-Ray and HD-DVD.

To keep it somewhat on topic, it was mentioned earlier that Oppo is waiting before any plans to release a BD or HD-DVD player. I'm guessing they're waiting for a decent chinese manufacturer to have a model ready so that they can come out with a quality but inexpensive player that will score well on a future Secrets HD Benchmark before they take the HD world by storm. :)

Still no new firmware?

I hope its this week.

OPPO finally found the PAL error that has been plaguing them since the start. Instead of releasing two firmware releases, they decided to hold off on the other one (last weeks final release of 1224/0126) so they can do a single firmware release most likely early next week (Q/A still needs to pass the firmware).

And before any one inquires: no, they will not be handing out this beta like they did with the 1224/0126.

Have you tried going back to the OP971-D-1022 Firmware ? Two of the people who I talked to on other forums found that dropping back to the 1022 firmware corrected the colorspace problem they were experiencing with the 1111B firmware.

Re: rumors of problems with Sharp Aquos at 720p. I couldn't get my Aquos LC-32DA5U to display properly at 720p (colors totally off and strange artifacts). On the recommendation of Neuromancer and Oppo Support I retrograded my firmware from 1111b to 1022 and Hey Presto! 720p works and looks great. It would be nice if this Aquos compatibility could be reincarnated in future firmware upgrades.

OPPO finally found the PAL error that has been plaguing them since the start. Instead of releasing two firmware releases, they decided to hold off on the other one (last weeks final release of 1224/0126) so they can do a single firmware release most likely early next week (Q/A still needs to pass the firmware).

And before any one inquires: no, they will not be handing out this beta like they did with the 1224/0126.


Awsome news! More PAL fixes is good in my books.

OPPO finally found the PAL error that has been plaguing them since the start. Instead of releasing two firmware releases, they decided to hold off on the other one (last weeks final release of 1224/0126) so they can do a single firmware release most likely early next week (Q/A still needs to pass the firmware).

And before any one inquires: no, they will not be handing out this beta like they did with the 1224/0126.

So, new release will be QA stamped 0126?

So, new release will be QA stamped 0126?

New release will have a February stamp, usually around the time the firmware is designed to be released. I havn't had the opportunity to see what the new firmware notation is, since I have not received my firmware for testing yet (right now it is fully internal).

Re: rumors of problems with Sharp Aquos at 720p. I couldn't get my Aquos LC-32DA5U to display properly at 720p (colors totally off and strange artifacts). On the recommendation of Neuromancer and Oppo Support I retrograded my firmware from 1111b to 1022 and Hey Presto! 720p works and looks great. It would be nice if this Aquos compatibility could be reincarnated in future firmware upgrades.
Its not just Sharp Aquos, its also Sony LCOS TVs and a few others. Supposedly this will be fixed with the new firmware.
J

New release will have a February stamp, usually around the time the firmware is designed to be released. I havn't had the opportunity to see what the new firmware notation is, since I have not received my firmware for testing yet (right now it is fully internal).

I didn't think 0126 would be the one since it still has a screen shift on PAL.

BTW, has anyone experienced DVI port going out of sync while playing?... I started having this issue once I installed 1224b firmware and it happened about 4 times within about two weeks period. I was able to track it down to the oppo since it sync itself back when flipping though dvi output setting. Reseting the display didn't do anything, so it's narrowed down to oppo DVI at 1080i. I've not tested other settings or tried to see if it happens on different resolution output. It's hard to blame it on the Monoprice DVI cable since it's been fine for about 3 months prior to beta firmware. I thought about reflashing, but I also had 0126 to play around and it's holding up so far. Haven't had time to give fair trial, yet.

I had the issue once with 1224b and I just reset the oppo and all was fine.

I didn't think 0126 would be the one since it still has a screen shift on PAL.

The 0126 does not have the PAL syncronization fix (the 0126 is basically the 1224 with some minor changes). The PAL fix was only introduced in a new alpha which premiered on Friday.

Michael, it is always best to adjust the display. Read the first post in this thread for advice on setting up the OPPO. (Most of the defaults are fine). Then look for RCA threads to help with calibration of your display.

Gary

Thanks very much Gary. That's what i kind of assumed but it's reassuring to hear it from someone more knowedgeable than i. I did the setup over the weekend and it worked out very well. I'm ~really~ pleased with the Oppo!

Michael

PLease dont get mad at me, but I am reporting my Observations so others can decide on there own before buying this product.

After all is that not what AVS forums is all about, everyone reporting there observations and reviews so others can decide on what to buy?

Others have said somewhat CONs to this product and then they got slammed for it. SOme said it with out ever trying the Oppo.

I tried it for 2 Weeks and returned it. WHY? with all the Macoblocking and Sound Synch issues, it was just not worth it for a $200 player. To many troubles for a beginner. Who has time to tweak the Sound (Yes I did install the lastest Update for the Oppo).

My Non up converting player did much better.
Granted it is Software based. . . . Now please dont laugh

But aside for the Flag reading issues, which I dont have becuase I play only Hit Movie current releases.

My Personal Test Results- I thought my $399 XBOX 360 did a better job than the Oppo. My SONY has a built in upconverter as do all HDVT sets.

I also considered Price. TO me the 360 was free (as I already had it for GAMES).
The OPPO was an additional $200.

Here is a DVD Secerete review- Yes it has issues, but for a Software based solution it is good. ANd free to me. Plus it works great for ZOOM Mode (near perfect) so the kids and wife love it. Yes the Wife factor is important.

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=125#MicrosoftXbox%20360%20(Component)


Please no flame replys, just reporting the other side of the the OPPos pros and cons so people can decide on there own, I am no expert. Just reporting what I saw on my TV. Your TV may do different results.

Not every one has a Good Upconverter line doubler system in there HDTV. Study the reviews on your TV make and Model BEFORE buying the OPPO, you may be OK with what you have now.

PLease dont get mad at me, but I am reporting my Observations so others can decide on there own before buying this product.

After all is that not what AVS forums is all about, everyone reporting there observations and reviews so others can decide on what to buy?

Others have said somewhat CONs to this product and then they got slammed for it. SOme said it with out ever trying the Oppo.

I tried it for 2 Weeks and returned it. WHY? with all the Macoblocking and Sound Synch issues, it was just not worth it for a $200 player. To many troubles for a beginner. Who has time to tweak the Sound (Yes I did install the lastest Update for the Oppo).

My Non up converting player did much better.
Granted it is Software based. . . . Now please dont laugh

But aside for the Flag reading issues, which I dont have becuase I play only Hit Movie current releases.

My Personal Test Results- I thought my $399 XBOX 360 did a better job than the Oppo. My SONY has a built in upconverter as do all HDVT sets.

I also considered Price. TO me the 360 was free (as I already had it for GAMES).
The OPPO was an additional $200.

Here is a DVD Secerete review- Yes it has issues, but for a Software based solution it is good. ANd free to me. Plus it works great for ZOOM Mode (near perfect) so the kids and wife love it. Yes the Wife factor is important.

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=125#MicrosoftXbox%20360%20(Component)


Please no flame replys, just reporting the other side of the the OPPos pros and cons so people can decide on there own, I am no expert. Just reporting what I saw on my TV. Your TV may do different results.

Not every one has a Good Upconverter line doubler system in there HDTV. Study the reviews on your TV make and Model BEFORE buying the OPPO, you may be OK with what you have now.


LOL...obviously you have made this post so people will flame you......the xbox is better??/haha.....nice comedy routine...even with any of the issues the oppos has[which is totally display dependent] your wrong on so many points....I think what you really need is to go to the eye doctor........and dont post this bs here with your mispelling and caps on small letters and ask to not be flamed.......hahaha...silly boy...also, in addition to you take your whole family to the eye doctor with you....

PS-burn baby burn

Has anyone compared the Oppo to an HTPC with one of the new ATI X1000 cards (new drivers)?

I've read some fantasic reviews on the cards with new drivers.

Has anyone compared the Oppo to an HTPC with one of the new ATI X1000 cards (new drivers)?

I've read some fantasic reviews on the cards with new drivers.


There's little chance the oppo can compete with a well set up HTPC (except that it's quieter). Someone did a comaprison a few months ago on which the oppo came a respectable second to a good HTPC set up.

Dave

Did a search and can't find the thread. Any chance you have a link to that comparison?

I would like to see what kind of hardware they were using. I'm currently doing an HTPC build and will be using an ATI X1600 vid card.

Did a search and can't find the thread. Any chance you have a link to that comparison?

I would like to see what kind of hardware they were using. I'm currently doing an HTPC build and will be using an ATI X1600 vid card.

Thank you for the feed back DEEZ, just reporting my observations for what I saw on my brand and model of TV.

Do you always make fun of people reporting there test results or just people that do not agree with you?

Maybe someone can give me some advice. I just bought the Oppo, but I am getting my TV's HDMI input calibrated this weekend by an ISF tech with a signal generator. If I need to make any user setting tweaks using the player, I rather make them ON THE PLAYER, rather than changing my TV's settings if you know what I mean...especialyl since I will eventually be using an HD player with my HDMI input later this year or next. Changing color and brightness, for example, on the Oppo.....does this lead to picture issues on the Oppo? I only as because I saw on the brain dump page to leave brightness at zero. In other words, I want to tweak the player settings to my set rather than doing the opposite.

Maybe someone can give me some advice. I just bought the Oppo, but I am getting my TV's HDMI input calibrated this weekend by an ISF tech with a signal generator. If I need to make any user setting tweaks using the player, I rather make them ON THE PLAYER, rather than changing my TV's settings if you know what I mean...especialyl since I will eventually be using an HD player with my HDMI input later this year or next. Changing color and brightness, for example, on the Oppo.....does this lead to picture issues on the Oppo? I only as because I saw on the brain dump page to leave brightness at zero. In other words, I want to tweak the player settings to my set rather than doing the opposite.

Though usually the display is tweaked, in a multi-input set up there's no reason why the oppo can't be tweaked instead. There are no issues that I know of--I' have my oppo settings slightly changed from default. It's just not likely to be quite as flexible.

Dave

Did a search and can't find the thread. Any chance you have a link to that comparison?

I would like to see what kind of hardware they were using. I'm currently doing an HTPC build and will be using an ATI X1600 vid card.


Look on this page for links:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6553310&highlight=HTPC#post6553310

Dave

regarding the HTPC vs OPPO, they didnt cover something that i have worried about, as well as seen comments about it through-out this (and the other oppo thread)

cut of pixels...
i noticed that through firmware updates, Oppo has addresses this problem and iirc they have fixed it for most users who use 720p/1080i though there was still some issue for the non-standard sizes for some projectors.

i have played around w/ the DVI->hdmi for a laptop and noticed that it was cropping about 10pixels off of both sides on a mac w/ 1280x720 default resolution for my Sony KDFE42A10
i dont currently have access to a PC w/ DVI as im only running my laptop and it only has VGA out. and still adjusting settings to fix to horizonal cropping (lossing image on both sides as it goes "off the screen")

since i got my sony HDTV, i have used my xbox via component connection for video and have to use the TVs scalar to zoom into the image and i lose about 1" on both top and bottom (2.35). im not sure as i havent taken the time to see if there is horizonal "off the screen" when i zoom in that much, but i think its the same as the DVI from the mac, which is about 10pixels on both left and right sides...

i have asked about this in the HTPC forums but havent gotten any feedback and was wondering if anyone was running a stock image out of their PC DVI to their HDTV and has NO image cut off due to oversampling. once when i was running the VGA out w/ DVD and the Sony as a "full screen overlay" of the video (from the dvd) and my Sony was reported that it was 720x480 rather than the 1280x720 which i was outputing via windows (nvidia driver) though if i just moved the dvd window over and hit Z (fullscreen) it would not try to change the resolution...

thanks for the info, and sorry for the somewhat 'off-topic'

I used to own an HTPC, and got the Oppo to compare -- I kept the Oppo. HTPC was a p4 2.8 gig, with 512mb ram, ATI Radeon 9600 with DVI, using TT 2.1 overlay renderless with ffdshow post processing with lancosz scaling and a bit of sharpening.

My HTPC was very stable, no problems at all. The Oppo clearly has better de-interlacing, with no discernible difference in scaling -- which is to say both are excellent (720P to MT700 1280x720 DLP projector). The HTPC scaled non-anamorphic widscreen DVDs much better, but that's not much of a concern for my viewing.

In the end the Oppo provided a sharper, cleaner image -- and that's with TrueLife and sharpness both set to off. I rarely experience lip synch issues, and there's nothing the Oppo hasn't been able to play. MB isn't an issue for me.

So DEEZ, you have the new XBOX 360 which is using the HTPC software based DVD software and you found it to be really bad, or are you just saying that becuase you once used the old XBOX which was really bad?

No, I think it is Kris Deering's review of the Xbox360 (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=125#MicrosoftXbox%20360%20(Component)) which has DEEZ laughing.

i have asked about this in the HTPC forums but havent gotten any feedback and was wondering if anyone was running a stock image out of their PC DVI to their HDTV and has NO image cut off due to oversampling. Using the OPPO (or an HTPC) set to 1280x720 over DVI, there is ZERO pixel cropping with either of them. However, my Samsung 720p DLP does have overscan - a different thing altogether. The TV has a setting to scale the image to eliminate overscan, but then you no longer have 1:1 pixel mapping.

Gary

forgive the newbie question and please keep the flames down...
is there such a thing as a DVI to RGB cable/connect??
i ask because i have an open RGB input on my zenith plasma open and really want to buy this oppo but dont have an open hdmi port..
is this possible without any loss in PQ??
2nd question: is there a DVI to component converter?? that may be my other option or just keep waiting for the new oppo that will upconvert via component?? thanks dmr