Here's my setup:

HDMI: SA8300
DVI-D: Oppo 971 dvd player
Both are directly connected to an Optoma HD72 projector.

And here's my problem:

When I switch sources from HDMI to DVD-D, the screen starts a green strobe light effect. This can only be fixed if I power down the projector, and power it back on.

This does NOT happen when switching from DVD-D to HDMI.

Is this a SA8300 problem, dvd player, or projector issue?

I have a similar setup, except I'm going to a plasma with a DVI->HDMI adapter into my set. No problems at all like you are describing. I can go back and forth between the two and no problems. If it were DVI switching to HDMI, I would say "handshaking" issues, but not HDMI to DVI....

I understand the difference between the Oppo 971 and 970 DVD Players. I am leaning towards the former, however I’d like to find information on the processor in my TV – Samsung 4095. Where can I find this information?

If the processor on my TV is the same quality found on the 971, I could theoretically receive the same image quality using the 970 player – is this correct? If not, please correct me.

the panny 58px600U, which oppo would be recommended ?

I have a problem with my oppo971 and sony rear kdfe50a11. Whenever I set it to 720p or 1080i, i get strange horizontal white dots and lines in the left side of the image.
Excuse my poor english, i think the best i can do is show you a small clip of what happens:

hxxp://rapidshare.de/files/32711961/oppo971.MPG.html

I usually see it in light areas of the image.
Any clues on why i get that?

Thanks and regards,
jshooter

I have a problem with my oppo971 and sony rear kdfe50a11. Whenever I set it to 720p or 1080i, i get strange horizontal white dots and lines in the left side of the image.
Excuse my poor english, i think the best i can do is show you a small clip of what happens:

hxxp://rapidshare.de/files/32711961/oppo971.MPG.html

I usually see it in light areas of the image.
Any clues on why i get that?

Thanks and regards,
jshooter

Woah man, that is WEIRD. It only happens on the left side of the screen, where the right side looks perfect. How about with other sources? Have you tried different inputs? With a native resolution of exactly 720p, I would suggest that you leave the Oppo on 720p with a 1:1 pixel map. :D

In 1080i it appears in left side, in 720p it appears in right side. No problem on 576p or connected by scart.
Unfortunately, I can't try other sources right now.

Could it be my single link dvi to hdmi cable?

Thanks, I emailed oppo as well, i hope it can be fixed

In 1080i it appears in left side, in 720p it appears in right side. No problem on 576p or connected by scart.
Unfortunately, I can't try other sources right now.

Could it be my single link dvi to hdmi cable?

Thanks, I emailed oppo as well, i hope it can be fixed

Are you using the cable supplied by Oppo or one of your own? Mine came with a dual-link DVI->HDMI. I also ordered cables from monoprice.com and mine work great. Do you have another option for the cable? That is certainly where I would start.

Justin

nope, i didn't get a cable with the oppo, so i bought one single link. I think i'll go for a profigold dual link to see if it works.

Thanks and regards

Hi there, just setting up my home theater. Still working on the room, but collecting components in the mean time. Have most everything, but need a new DVD player. Looking that this Oppo, but reading a review I am confused about what they say about Audio. Here is the quote:

"Audio CD and DVD quality is very good, but the unit will not show you any titles information or ID3 tag information. There is only an Oppo Digital logo on the television screen. For true 5.1 channel DVD audio playback, you will have to use the 6 separate analog connectors instead of the SPDIF connections. We did not test DVD Audio playback on this unit, but since this is the norm for most DVD players, we expect it to hold true in this case. If you know otherwise, please post in our forums letting people know."

My receiver only has an optical input for 5.1 sound. What are they talking about in this review? Is only for straight audio DVD's?

Thanks for any help you can provide.

Jay

In 1080i it appears in left side, in 720p it appears in right side. No problem on 576p or connected by scart.
Unfortunately, I can't try other sources right now.

Could it be my single link dvi to hdmi cable?

Thanks, I emailed oppo as well, i hope it can be fixed

I would try new cables if you have them available.

A secondary problem could be that it is related to the DVI output being defective, which is why I would recommend a LCD monitor or other DVI/HDMI based display device be used for diagnostic purposes.

As many of you know, Oppo is a Chinese company and its 971 is based on BBK 971. BBK is the parent compnay located in GuangDong, China. According to Chinese trade journals and online technical comparisons, SkyWorth(another Chinese company) 9810 is far superior to BBK 971. One major technical advantage stands out to me is Skyworth uses AmLogic pixel de-interlacer, while 971 uses Dcdi deinterlacer which is line-based. AmLogic used to a US company based in Silicon Valley and now is Chinese. So the Chinese owns the IR on the design(a single chip design combines decoder+de-interlacer). Pixel de-interlacer is far superior to line-based de-interlacer by design. The net effect is that Skyworth has a much better PQ in terms of color saturation, resolution, smoothness without the macroblock noise. In addition, Skyworth supports 1080P thru component and HDMI. And they retail for about the same price in China and Skyworth is killing 971 big time.

I will try to get a Skyworth in the next month or 2 to see for myself. I will report my personal observations.

Wilson you must hurry !!! I need a new player by tomorrow and I was waiting for the new Oppo with HDMI, but now I must have the Skyworth! or the Toshiba HD-DVD.

Hey can anyone pull up chapter 48 on Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith? At around 2:09:20 -> 2:09:28, Yoda turns his chair to face Obi-Wan. There are some red markings on a control panel behind his right ear. When he turns and moves his head, It seems like his ear extends "past" his actual ear and interferes in the red of the control panel. Anyone else seen this??? I'm on 0302 firmware, 'cause it seems "smoother" to me in camera pans.

Justin

I've got a kinda wierd problem, and couldn't find anything when searching the thread. I have an SVCD that plays fine over DVI/HDMI going into my Sony 34HS420 tv. However, it is non-anamorphic, so I want to use the stretch modes of the tv. When I try and watch it via the Oppo's component out, the picture scrolls vertically like mad. Any idea what may be causing this?

Solved my own problem. Rolled back my firmware from the latest Russian mod to the latest official release, and voila, no more scroll. Wierd issue though...

As many of you know, Oppo is a Chinese company and its 971 is based on BBK 971. BBK is the parent compnay located in GuangDong, China. According to Chinese trade journals and online technical comparisons, SkyWorth(another Chinese company) 9810 is far superior to BBK 971. One major technical advantage stands out to me is Skyworth uses AmLogic pixel de-interlacer, while 971 uses Dcdi deinterlacer which is line-based. AmLogic used to a US company based in Silicon Valley and now is Chinese. So the Chinese owns the IR on the design(a single chip design combines decoder+de-interlacer). Pixel de-interlacer is far superior to line-based de-interlacer by design. The net effect is that Skyworth has a much better PQ in terms of color saturation, resolution, smoothness without the macroblock noise. In addition, Skyworth supports 1080P thru component and HDMI. And they retail for about the same price in China and Skyworth is killing 971 big time.

I will try to get a Skyworth in the next month or 2 to see for myself. I will report my personal observations.
How do I find more info on this Skyworth (price, compatability, etc) my search only shows everything in Chinese? I would like to try one of these is the 9810 the best they have? see there is a number of models but still cant understand much on the sites? Where can you buy one? :rolleyes:

Not to be cynical, but this "Skyworth" post seems like a marketing ploy for an upstart electronics outfit? On the other hand, I could be wrong.

Typing the word "review" along with the model HVD-9810 results in zero finds, so it seems to be too new. In the meantime, I scored the biggest picture I could find of the SkyWorth HVD-9810 and it's not on the company's website. For now, it seems that's all we'll be able to look at, much less a set of actual specs regarding its abilities.

http://publish.it168.com/2006/0412/images/655500.jpg

For my TV remote (Mitusbishi), Oppo is not listed as one of the preprogrammed selections and it is not a learning remote.

Anyone had any luck trying other mfr remote codes in place of Oppos?

I only need the basic commands on my main TV remote to run the DVD player.

Thanks!

tried another dvi-d single link and still same problem. could it be i need a dual link cable?

:(

regards

tried another dvi-d single link and still same problem. could it be i need a dual link cable?

:(

regards

Yes, it could be, mine shipped with a dual link cable, so there may be a reason for that. It's still in the packaging. How long of a cable do you need? Do you want mine?

Justin

thanks but i'm afraid i'm a bit far -spain-
I'll look for a dual link cable this evening and see if it works.

Regards

Typing the word "review" along with the model HVD-9810 results in zero finds, so it seems to be too new. In the meantime, I scored the biggest picture I could find of the SkyWorth HVD-9810 and it's not on the company's website. For now, it seems that's all we'll be able to look at, much less a set of actual specs regarding its abilities.

http://publish.it168.com/2006/0412/images/655500.jpg

Hmm...I hope the remote doesn't get lost :)

Kerry

As many of you know, Oppo is a Chinese company and its 971 is based on BBK 971. BBK is the parent compnay located in GuangDong, China. According to Chinese trade journals and online technical comparisons, SkyWorth(another Chinese company) 9810 is far superior to BBK 971. One major technical advantage stands out to me is Skyworth uses AmLogic pixel de-interlacer, while 971 uses Dcdi deinterlacer which is line-based. AmLogic used to a US company based in Silicon Valley and now is Chinese. So the Chinese owns the IR on the design(a single chip design combines decoder+de-interlacer). Pixel de-interlacer is far superior to line-based de-interlacer by design. The net effect is that Skyworth has a much better PQ in terms of color saturation, resolution, smoothness without the macroblock noise. In addition, Skyworth supports 1080P thru component and HDMI. And they retail for about the same price in China and Skyworth is killing 971 big time.

I will try to get a Skyworth in the next month or 2 to see for myself. I will report my personal observations.

"New Member", do you work for Skyworth or a related company? If so, you should disclose that information.

HVD players all use the AMLogic chipset. I've used the Skyworth HVD-3050 (http://www.connectedhomemag.com/HomeTheater/Articles/Index.cfm?ArticleID=43123) as well as the NeuNeo/Helios HVD2085 (http://www.dvdtalk.com/features/004850.html), and the quality of both was far inferior to the Oppo players. AMLogic's "per-pixel" deinterlacing is relatively decent on simple film-based content, but very poor with any video-based material. Faroudja is much better on either type of content. As for AMLogic's MPEG decoding, other aspects of picture quality such as sharpness and color were nothing special on the HVD players either. The Oppo easily outperforms them.

About the only real advantage these players have over the Oppo is the ability to play HVD discs, which will be of very limited interest to most English-speaking viewers.

Hi, all,

No, I don't work for Skyworth and has no affiliation with Skyworth whatsoever. I'm simply passing on some of the research I did while trying to decide if I should buy the Oppo 971H.

Josh,
Skyworth 3050 is a much older model and is night and day compared to 9810. Since you are a staff reviewer, why don't you get hold of 9810 and do a review for the entire forum and let us know how it stacks up against 971?

It's way premature for you to declare the winner here without even doing a scientific comparison. My information is accurate and I read them on some of the top Chinese online AV forums and trade journals. While Oppo 971H is a good player, it's not as highly regarded in China at all. Some of the comparison reviews include BBK971 and Skyworth 9810 and the pictures convinced me that Skyworth is a better player. Skyworth has almost 50% of the DVD market there. Why do you suppose so? I'm considering buying Skyworth 9810 not for the HVD capability, but purely for its upconversion. It can upconvert DVD upto 1080P thru both Component and HDMI, that alone is convincing enough for me to make that purchase considering it costs the same as 971H.

As I said, I will have that player in the next 2 months and I will report back my personal observations.

One more thing and this is a biggie for me. 9810 decodes MPEG-4 and supports 62 encoding schemes. This means you can literally throw all kinds of home-burned discs at it and it will play.

Many OPPO owners found out about OPPO through this forum. There have been a few reviews of the OPPO and they have been overwhelmingly positive. I think The Perfect Vision did one and Secrets of Home Theater as well. When I bought mine it hadn't been officially reviewed yet and had a few acknowledged flaws. I bought mine based of a few personal needs and since then OPPO has maintained interest in the 971 and continued to fine tune it with firmware upgrades. The same thing that got me interested in a "no-name" outfit like OPPO ( I know, there a huge manufacturer for other companies, etc.) is the same thing that would interest me in a Skyworth, so yes, I'd like to know more about them. OPPO seems to be pursuing the US market now while Skyworth is completely unknown here. Being a big seller is by no means a way to measure quality, after all, McDonalds sells lots of burgers. Still, it's an indication that it's worth checking into. I'm looking forward to hearing more about it. Keep us posted.

Many OPPO owners found out about OPPO through this forum. There have been a few reviews of the OPPO and they have been overwhelmingly positive. I think The Perfect Vision did one and Secrets of Home Theater as well. When I bought mine it hadn't been officially reviewed yet and had a few acknowledged flaws. I bought mine based of a few personal needs and since then OPPO has maintained interest in the 971 and continued to fine tune it with firmware upgrades. The same thing that got me interested in a "no-name" outfit like OPPO ( I know, there a huge manufacturer for other companies, etc.) is the same thing that would interest me in a Skyworth, so yes, I'd like to know more about them. OPPO seems to be pursuing the US market now while Skyworth is completely unknown here. Being a big seller is by no means a way to measure quality, after all, McDonalds sells lots of burgers. Still, it's an indication that it's worth checking into. I'm looking forward to hearing more about it. Keep us posted.
Im also very interested in this Skyworth 9810. Does anyone know where one can buy one to try out? Are they multi zone and region free? Duel voltage 110/230v?

I haven't find a US seller yet. I will be ordering from China directly, probably thru Ebay China. It's region free and dual voltage.

wilsonzhang2005 and Martin Butler,

One of the reasons Josh Z lashed out is the disregard for what this forum is designed for. We don't mind mentioning other products, especially as a comparison, but the talk of the Skyworth has gone well beyond "comparions". If you want to talk shop about this company and their units, please start a new thread.

This is not a general DVD thread, this is a FAQ specifically for the OPDV971H.

Anyone had any luck trying other mfr remote codes in place of Oppos?

Unfortunately I have not seen any that retain enough of the original functions to be useful.

Neuromancer, I thought I was simply mentioning I'd be interested in hearing more about any new player with a potentially superior pq than the OPPO 971, whether in this thread or a new one. As for it's pertinence to this thread, it's simple, the OPPO's been top dog in the bang for the buck sweepstakes for quite a while now and has been a great solution for those people who wanted equivalent pq of a player like the Denon 3910 without the high price tag. The OPPO delivered. If there's something even better, great, but I'd sure like to hear from some people who've tried and tested both before getting seriously interested. I think that's about all that can be said about a DVD player no one's seen yet.

Skyworth 3050 is a much older model and is night and day compared to 9810. Since you are a staff reviewer, why don't you get hold of 9810 and do a review for the entire forum and let us know how it stacks up against 971?

If there were an English-language retailer who shipped to the US for a reasonable price I might consider it. I'd also like to find a decent EVD player with an HDMI output. Know of any of those?

There's an Oppo beta firmware with better DVI output and better audio/video sync. Might want to give it a try.

opdv971h_firmware_0316_download.html[/url]

Is this an older firmware or the latest? Just wondered OPPO OPDV971H Firmware Release OP971-F-0316 vs MVer: 05.00.01.07 Batch: 10-0720. Thanks

That is an older firmware release with an audio/video syncronization scheme. The 10-0720 firmware incorporates this, with more features to boot.

Martin Butler -

I am not calling you out, just explaining to the both of your that this is not the right thread to really be talking about the DVD unit in terms of interest. Comparisons et al are welcome.

"I think that's about all that can be said about a DVD player no one's seen yet."

Precisely my point.

That is an older firmware release with an audio/video syncronization scheme. The 10-0720 firmware incorporates this, with more features to boot.
Thank you, sir!

Hey can anyone pull up chapter 48 on Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith? At around 2:09:20 -> 2:09:28, Yoda turns his chair to face Obi-Wan. There are some red markings on a control panel behind his right ear. When he turns and moves his head, It seems like his ear extends "past" his actual ear and interferes in the red of the control panel. Anyone else seen this??? I'm on 0302 firmware, 'cause it seems "smoother" to me in camera pans.

Justin

Went back to the newest firmware (0720) and, of course, all fixed! No problem at all, and I think the "0302 smoother firmware" that I was talking about was just me "seeing things". The new firmware looks great and fixes that annoying problem! Good job Oppo engineers!

Justin

In 1080i it appears in left side, in 720p it appears in right side. No problem on 576p or connected by scart.
Unfortunately, I can't try other sources right now.

Could it be my single link dvi to hdmi cable?

Thanks, I emailed oppo as well, i hope it can be fixed

I just took a look at the cables again and mine came with a single-link DVI-HDMI cable and dual-link DVI-DVI. So, I don't think it is the fact that it is the fact that it is a single-link DVI-HDMI.

Justin

Well, My oppo 971H arrived today. I have to say that the packaging from the mesh bag on top and everything seemed top notch compared to some cheaper dvd players I've bought in the past.

I hooked it up as fastttt as possible as I had to head off to work and just had time to pop in the movie 'Valcano' which looked pretty good in its opening scenes.

From several feet away the picture quality on my 72" DLP tv(Toshiba 72MX195) was pretty good.

I did have some questions. I still had black bars on the top/bottom. When I was looking on the oppo specs form their website it apperas that it would have a auto-aspect ratio feature so if I put in 2:31 it would clip the sides to make it full16:9 automatically? IE no black bars ever!!! =)

Mind you, I like the black bars but the installer who installed the tv says my model of dlp tv is subject to burn in ...which I think is garbage since open seraching google almost ever dlp tv advertises 'No burn in!'.

Anyways, I quickly checked the ..4th? page of the options and noticed by default areas like 'Color' 'Saturation' 'Sharpness' were all set to 00?

Does anyone with my dlp tv or another dlp tv have recommendations for this? I've heard from various sources keep sharpness at 00 and added sharpness has no benefit. I also couldn't help but notice by default when I hooked it up the 'Noise Reduction' feature was off. Should I turn it on?

Thanks for your advice in advance.

DLPs by definition will not have burn-in

I thought the 971 wouldnt do 720p though the component? When I tested it last night the screen says 720p? I thought it would only do interlased?

Well, My oppo 971H arrived today. I have to say that the packaging from the mesh bag on top and everything seemed top notch compared to some cheaper dvd players I've bought in the past.

I hooked it up as fastttt as possible as I had to head off to work and just had time to pop in the movie 'Valcano' which looked pretty good in its opening scenes.

From several feet away the picture quality on my 72" DLP tv(Toshiba 72MX195) was pretty good.

I did have some questions. I still had black bars on the top/bottom. When I was looking on the oppo specs form their website it apperas that it would have a auto-aspect ratio feature so if I put in 2:31 it would clip the sides to make it full16:9 automatically? IE no black bars ever!!! =)

Mind you, I like the black bars but the installer who installed the tv says my model of dlp tv is subject to burn in ...which I think is garbage since open seraching google almost ever dlp tv advertises 'No burn in!'.

Anyways, I quickly checked the ..4th? page of the options and noticed by default areas like 'Color' 'Saturation' 'Sharpness' were all set to 00?

Does anyone with my dlp tv or another dlp tv have recommendations for this? I've heard from various sources keep sharpness at 00 and added sharpness has no benefit. I also couldn't help but notice by default when I hooked it up the 'Noise Reduction' feature was off. Should I turn it on?

Thanks for your advice in advance.

First the 16x9 is a reference to the type of TV/Display you have 16x9 or 4:3, the Oppo (as most DVD players) does not Auto Crop the content...do a quick search/read on aspect ratios for more information. If you run a 2.35:1 movie you will have black bars on the top and bottom... use you display zoom etc... to get rid of them if you so choose...

2nd In general the suggested settings are to leave all the video settings to off or 0...adjust if needed with you display.

I thought the 971 wouldnt do 720p though the component? When I tested it last night the screen says 720p? I thought it would only do interlased?

If you are using the OSD function of the player, it is telling you the resolution of the DVI port, even if you have it connected via component.

If the display itself is reporting 720p as input, then I'm stumped.

-Bill

If you are using the OSD function of the player, it is telling you the resolution of the DVI port, even if you have it connected via component.

If the display itself is reporting 720p as input, then I'm stumped.

-Bill
I have my projector using the HDMI and my plasma using the component. When I test the resolution on the plasma (with component) the top LHS of the plasma says 720p! Im happy but isnt that wrong for this model Oppo 971?

tried a dual link cable and image problems are still there, so it has to be the player. I'll get a new one.

Regards

I have my projector using the HDMI and my plasma using the component. When I test the resolution on the plasma (with component) the top LHS of the plasma says 720p! Im happy but isnt that wrong for this model Oppo 971?

When I have my Oppo 971 set to 720p, the info display on my LCD panel reads:

DVI: 1280 x 720p
component: 720 x 480i

The "DVI" button on the Oppo remote will display "720p (60hz)" on the left side of the display regardless of which output you are using. This is a bit confusing. The resolution of the DVI port is displayed on all the other ports, includiing component, but I think they are fixed at 480i.

Again, if you really are getting 720p from component on the 971, I am puzzled as to how that could be.

-Bill

here you can see my image distortion problems, even in oppo setup menu:
http://rapidshare.de/files/33064017/oppo971_2_.MPG.html

regards

When I have my Oppo 971 set to 720p, the info display on my LCD panel reads:

DVI: 1280 x 720p
component: 720 x 480i

The "DVI" button on the Oppo remote will display "720p (60hz)" on the left side of the display regardless of which output you are using. This is a bit confusing. The resolution of the DVI port is displayed on all the other ports, includiing component, but I think they are fixed at 480i.

Again, if you really are getting 720p from component on the 971, I am puzzled as to how that could be.

-Bill Why would this be it just doesnt make sense?!!!
If its not ment to be 720p on component why would Oppo show it on the screen thats just crazy is it not?

Why would this be it just doesnt make sense?!!!
If its not ment to be 720p on component why would Oppo show it on the screen thats just crazy is it not?

Well, the button does say "DVI".

The same image is sent to all ports simultaneously, which is good for testing, but confusing when one of the on-screen info displays applies only to one of the ports.

-Bill

here you can see my image distortion problems, even in oppo setup menu.1st of all, update to the latest firmware. If that fails, try other cables (DVI, etc.) and see if the same problem occurs.

1st of all, update to the latest firmware. If that fails, try other cables (DVI, etc.) and see if the same problem occurs.

I think he tried 3 different sets of cables and is on the latest firmware. Have you considered that it may be the input on your TV? Do you have any other components that you can use to test that input? Or another TV that you can plug the Oppo into to test it?

Justin

I tried 3 cables and all firmwares i found. No luck. I also tried a pc and found no problem, so it has to be the player. I'll exchange it next week.

Thanks for your help and regards

I have my 971 connected to a Samsung HL-S4666W using DVI/HDMI. I also have a HTPC connected using RGB. When playing back AVI files, it seems to me that the HTPC produces a better picture. There is distortion (don't know what to really call it) in the darker areas of the picture when played through the DVD player but not through the HTPC. Is this normal or is there a setting I should adjust. Need some help, new to all this. :o :confused:

If you are seeing sparkly, dancing squiggly things where the picture is very dark it might be what is called macroblocking. Perhaps some of the other members can be more helpful.

If you are seeing sparkly, dancing squiggly things where the picture is very dark it might be what is called macroblocking. Perhaps some of the other members can be more helpful.
That describes it pretty well. Guess I'll just use the PC.

I have my 971 connected to a Samsung HL-S4666W using DVI/HDMI. I also have a HTPC connected using RGB. When playing back AVI files, it seems to me that the HTPC produces a better picture. There is distortion (don't know what to really call it) in the darker areas of the picture when played through the DVD player but not through the HTPC. Is this normal or is there a setting I should adjust. Need some help, new to all this. :o :confused:

Bobrap,

We would need more details on your setup and configuration to help. Your samsung is, a 46" DLP RPTV, yes? Martin may be right that it is a macroblock issue. If new to display issues then help from a calibration dvd would help. Joe Kane's DVE disc or AVIA will be useful. Most display devices are compromised in terms of their pontential as shipped. The oppo 971 normally needs little adjustment. In fact it drives us old tweakers nuts. Although all the Firm Ware updates have been fun. So get a disc and have fun adjusting for a much improved PQ.

joe

Thanks for the reply. I thought I had read in the HL-S4666 forum that a lot of people were just using the default "movie" settings on the DLP. I'm doing the same. And using pretty much the defaults on the Oppo. Any suggested settings in lieu of running the avia disc? I guess I'll have to look into getting a calibration disc.

Thanks for the reply. I thought I had read in the HL-S4666 forum that a lot of people were just using the default "movie" settings on the DLP. I'm doing the same. And using pretty much the defaults on the Oppo. Any suggested settings in lieu of running the avia disc? I guess I'll have to look into getting a calibration disc.
For a quick setup, if you already have a Star Wars DVD, you can use the THX optimizer to calibrate. Click on the THX logo and it will bring up the calibration screen.

I reverted back to the un-modified firmware and am still having problems with Toy Story 10th anniversary. I get the french subtitles, but only the ones translating English text (like a sign or name on a box), not English speaking. It's a little annoying.

Anybody have similar experience?

I was getting this problem too. The bath 10-0720 firmware fixed it.

Wow, I'm impressed with Oppo. I emailed them yesterday with some major kudos on a great product (I have the 971H) and asked about how exactly it was processing the data when set to output at 1080i (I've got a Westinghouse LVM-37w3, true 1080p, and was interested in minimizing the slight motion blur at 1080i introduced by multiple de-interlace/re-interlace conversions).

They replied back within hours. I sent them a further question, and a reply came back within the hour! My first impressions about their commitment to quality and customer support appear to be well founded.

Anyway, in my second email I asked about the possibility of 1080p output being introduced in a future firmware revision. The reply:

At this time, 1080p is hardware restrictive on the OPDV971H product. It
is something that we are looking into as a possibility through
firmware, but so far all implimentations would act like an
"over-clock", which could severly limit the lifespan of the DVD player.Just the fact that they're investigating a workaround is great. Here's to hoping they find a way to do it within spec! :)

For my TV remote (Mitusbishi), Oppo is not listed as one of the preprogrammed selections and it is not a learning remote.

Anyone had any luck trying other mfr remote codes in place of Oppos?

I only need the basic commands on my main TV remote to run the DVD player.

Thanks!

I feel like I'm stalking you here between the new Mitsu DLP threads and the Oppo forum :).

Why not program NetCommand to run your OPPO? (That's how mine's setup)

Anyone know if Divx Ultra support is planned for the Oppo 970? Is this possible through a future firmware update?

Thanks!

No and No. The hardware is 720x480 maximum. OPPO would be playing God if they could increase that.

I feel like I'm stalking you here between the new Mitsu DLP threads and the Oppo forum :).

Why not program NetCommand to run your OPPO? (That's how mine's setup)

Hopping around a bit myself :)

Hadn't tried the NetCommand stuff, but if that will run the Oppo then that will work for me. Will maybe have time to give it a try this weekend. Thanks Tip!

No and No. The hardware is 720x480 maximum. OPPO would be playing God if they could increase that.
As far as I know DivX Ultra is not a big resolution, but a menu and subtitles support in .divx container. And this is a sowtware limitation only.

My bad. DivX Ultra is basically DivX 6.0 support. Last I talked with OPPO DivX 6 support is still being worked on through hardware through their decoder partner (MTK) and can not be done in software until the hardware is tapped out.

Pardon me if this is a common issue. I've searched and have found nothing.

I'm not sure if this is a problem with the DVD player or the display (Mits HC3000), but since the DVD player is the only source with this symptom, I'm inclined to think it's the player. There seems to be a thin line 1 pixel wide along both the top and bottom edges of the image.

Has anyone else experienced such a thing?

OPPO has an underscan at 480 if I remember correctly. At 720, no line. Don't know if they addressed this with the last firmware upgrade. I'd forgotten to look at mine, maybe I'll check later tonight.

Can anybody confirm if and when Oppo is going to release an upconverting (1080p) DVD player to replace the 971? Any news would do. Thanks.

OPPO has an underscan at 480 if I remember correctly. At 720, no line. Don't know if they addressed this with the last firmware upgrade. I'd forgotten to look at mine, maybe I'll check later tonight.

I'm running at 720, and I believe I have the latest firmware upgrade.

The OPDV971H naturally underscans. Depending on the overscan parameters of your display, you may notice bars around the entire image, or only a portion of it.

Can anybody confirm if and when Oppo is going to release an upconverting (1080p) DVD player to replace the 971? Any news would do. Thanks.Errr, um, I think the answer appeared 9 posts prior to yours.

I have heard some raise the issue about macroblocking with this machine--The Oppo customer service told me I should not experience this problem using the Epson LCD 800 Front projector---that it appears sometimes with DLP---any reactions??

Macroblocking will always be evident, what becomes an issue is if it is enhanced or not. For most displays, this should not be an issue with proper calibration. However, some displays, such as RPTV DLP and plasma may have inherent macroblocking errors that can be exasperated.

My bad. DivX Ultra is basically DivX 6.0 support. Last I talked with OPPO DivX 6 support is still being worked on through hardware through their decoder partner (MTK) and can not be done in software until the hardware is tapped out.
Strange. I have bbk985s, but with last firmware from oppo it plays divx6 encoded files (no menu or subtitles) without any problem.

DivX 6.0 is backwards compatible with DivX 5.1. Of course, the benefits of 6.0 can't be used on a backwards compatiblity level.

Errr, um, I think the answer appeared 9 posts prior to yours.

I read that post and that seems to indicate a possibility of 1080p through firmware.

But I was merely wondering of a new model say 975H or something like that with some good features of the 970 included in it as well. Basically that model would replace the 971. I was wondering if there was any news or update on such a thing.

EDIT - Nevermind. I think there is a new thread already on this as I edit the post -> http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=725812 :)

I've had my 971 about a month. I'm getting a strange mechanical noise prior to playback on some disks. Sounds like motor noise. Once playback starts, it diminishes, then disappears.

RMA or do any of you have similar experience?

I've had my 971 about a month. I'm getting a strange mechanical noise prior to playback on some disks. Sounds like motor noise. Once playback starts, it diminishes, then disappears.

RMA or do any of you have similar experience?

Is this while playing the menus or intro material on a disk?

Now and then, I've had the Oppo and other players vibrate and make a buzzing or grinding noise while playing the menus on some disks. Menus are short looping videos, and I have wondered if the vibration is is some sort of resonance caused by the laser seeking back and forth.

I have no solution.

-Bill

Is this while playing the menus or intro material on a disk?

Now and then, I've had the Oppo and other players vibrate and make a buzzing or grinding noise while playing the menus on some disks. Menus are short looping videos, and I have wondered if the vibration is is some sort of resonance caused by the laser seeking back and forth.

I have no solution.

-BillYes...also select CDs are doing the same while loading track #1. Sounds like it might be common...or just us :eek:

Anyway, playback has been flawless, just this disturbing noise.

I've had my 971 about a month. I'm getting a strange mechanical noise prior to playback on some disks. Sounds like motor noise. Once playback starts, it diminishes, then disappears.

RMA or do any of you have similar experience?

I had this happen the other day for the first time. I thought the player might be overheating or something, but as soon as I started the movie it went away.

The movie was Crouching Tiger, by the way.

The OPDV971H naturally underscans. Depending on the overscan parameters of your display, you may notice bars around the entire image, or only a portion of it.

Underscan? At 480, or 720, or 1080? Doesn't that mean that, at least for 480, it doesn't produce full resolution?

I read that post and that seems to indicate a possibility of 1080p through firmware.

But I was merely wondering of a new model say 975H or something like that with some good features of the 970 included in it as well. Basically that model would replace the 971. I was wondering if there was any news or update on such a thing.

EDIT - Nevermind. I think there is a new thread already on this as I edit the post -> http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=725812 :)As I hope you have read, but perhaps didn't understand, the only upcoming Oppo model referred to in these forums has been the 971 replacement that only adds HDMI, SACD, and black paint, with availability in the Fall.

The Oppo quote I referred you to means it is not possible to make a simple change to the 971 to pump out 1080p without burning out the unit. The fact that Oppo seemed candid about that dead-end and didn't say anything about an upcoming redesign suggests it won't happen for a very long time. For what it's worth, I imagine the hard part is scaling standard DVD to 1080i, and a good HDTV can probably do a good job of the 1080i to 1080p step, anyway.

Hello, been thinking of getting a 971 and having it SDI modded, or keeping the Denon 2900 I have and getting it SDI modded. Thoughts? I wouldn't miss the quirks of the Denon, especially the heat it generates and the slowness. It's a tank tho.
Thanx...

Underscan? At 480, or 720, or 1080? Doesn't that mean that, at least for 480, it doesn't produce full resolution?

All resolutions. Depending on the display, you may notice boarders around the entire image. Most displays will have a built in overscan, which masks this error.

All resolutions. Depending on the display, you may notice boarders around the entire image. Most displays will have a built in overscan, which masks this error.

Damn. I've been waiting for the black 972, but if it throws away resolution, along with the macroblocking, I'm not so sure anymore. I was planning on eliminating overscan on the TV for 1:1 pixel mapping, but if Oppo doesn't even output a full image, it seems a waste of time.

Hello, been thinking of getting a 971 and having it SDI modded, or keeping the Denon 2900 I have and getting it SDI modded. Thoughts? I wouldn't miss the quirks of the Denon, especially the heat it generates and the slowness. It's a tank tho.
Thanx...


I agree that the 2900 has its quirks, but you most definetly cannot say that it is slow, it does put off some nice heat though.

My opinion, mod the 2900.

I have owned my 971H for one year now and I still love this damn little thing! I do have one question regarding 540P and 720P outputs. Which resolution is technically closer to HD? I've read various forums regarding this and I'm still confused as to which one actually puts more information on the screen. The reason I'm asking is because my television accepts 540P and not 720P. I'm currently using the player at 1080i and happy with the picture but I do see some additional benefits to the picture at 540.

Damn. I've been waiting for the black 972, but if it throws away resolution, along with the macroblocking, I'm not so sure anymore. I was planning on eliminating overscan on the TV for 1:1 pixel mapping, but if Oppo doesn't even output a full image, it seems a waste of time.

It is not throwing away resolution. It is just not fully mapping the resolution on a 1:1 pixel basis.

I have owned my 971H for one year now and I still love this damn little thing! I do have one question regarding 540P and 720P outputs. Which resolution is technically closer to HD? I've read various forums regarding this and I'm still confused as to which one actually puts more information on the screen. The reason I'm asking is because my television accepts 540P and not 720P. I'm currently using the player at 1080i and happy with the picture but I do see some additional benefits to the picture at 540.

540p (1920x540) has more pixel resolution than 720p (1280x720). So, if you want to use a progressive mode, then 540p will be your best resolution.

540p (1920x540) has more pixel resolution than 720p (1280x720). So, if you want to use a progressive mode, then 540p will be your best resolution.

"540p" is generally defined at 960x540. What is it that the Oppo actually outputs?

I believe OPPO does 1920x540. They are not using the so called quarter resolution (960x540).

I believe OPPO does 1920x540. They are not using the so called quarter resolution (960x540).

This appears as 1920 x 1080i on my Westinghouse 37w3, same as the 1080i from the player.

-Bill

I have a Toshiba 57h84 that is native 1080i, but can be set to 540p; what are the pros and cons of setting the Oppo to 1080i or 540p and matching the setting with the TV?

It can be advantageous to use 540p because the DVD player has done all the de-interlacing, and has not introduced a re-interlacing step. Depending on the quality of the de-interlacing and scaling parameters of your television, 540p can look better than 1080i.

It is not throwing away resolution. It is just not fully mapping the resolution on a 1:1 pixel basis.

Sorry, but how is that not throwing away resolution? A DVD has a full 480 lines of resolution. If the Oppo underscans and outputs some of those lines as black, I can't but see that it's throwing away resolution, or pixels, or image information, call it what you want.

I am getting my first TV that cost more than $350. My Samsung HL-S4666W 46" DLP HDTV will be here in the next week or so. I am not a video-phile and am just looking for a quality DVD player that will not leave me wanting more. I don't need and certainly can't afford a high end one.

I have been exploring the Oppo 971 which everyone seems to rave about. My question is this: My TV does not have DVI, just HDMI. Is this player appropriate to use with my TV coupled with a DV-HDMI cable? DO you have any other suggestions of players I should consider? Thanks!

It can be advantageous to use 540p because the DVD player has done all the de-interlacing, and has not introduced a re-interlacing step. Depending on the quality of the de-interlacing and scaling parameters of your television, 540p can look better than 1080i.
I thought that might be the case. Makes sense that setting the Oppo to 540p and my TV to 540p means the TV shouldn't do any additional "manipulation" of the data and just display the video. Just to clarify, if I set the Oppo and my TV to 1080i, the Oppo would deinterlace and then reinterlace before sending to the TV? So 540p would avoid the reinterlacing step? Or would setting both to 1080i skip the deinterlacing step?
Sorry if those are too basic questions. I also realize that while what we're discussing is theoretical, in the "real world" there are other variables that may affect the outcome.
Thanks for taking the time to educate me!

Will work fine wizzman. They come with a DVI-HDMI cable - i recommend refering to GSBs guide on how to tune a Sammy for the 971H

Will work fine wizzman. They come with a DVI-HDMI cable - i recommend refering to GSBs guide on how to tune a Sammy for the 971H
Thanks

And lastly, the 971 is the proper choice over the 970 for my TV?

I would recommend first reading the Macroblocking and Calibration (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7270763#post7270763) thread by GSB to see if you are willing to go through the steps which may be required on your DLP to reduce macroblocking errors.

If you want a sure fire hookup (ie. not as macroblock prone) then you will want to look into the DV-970HD DVD player.

So 540p would avoid the reinterlacing step? Or would setting both to 1080i skip the deinterlacing step?

At 1080i the DVD player will do the following:
480i->progressive->scale->re-interlace->1080i.
The re-interlacing can cause visual errors, depending on how accurate it was done in the first place. The signal is also interlaced, inviting errors combing and aliasing errors.

At 540p the DVD player will do the following:
480i->progressive->scale->540p
There is no re-interlacing step, and the signal is now progressive. Depending on the re-interlacing aspects of your display, this may or may not decrease jagged edges or interlacing errors.

At 1080i the DVD player will do the following:
480i->progressive->scale->re-interlace->1080i.
The re-interlacing can cause visual errors, depending on how accurate it was done in the first place. The signal is also interlaced, inviting errors combing and aliasing errors.

At 540p the DVD player will do the following:
480i->progressive->scale->540p
There is no re-interlacing step, and the signal is now progressive. Depending on the re-interlacing aspects of your display, this may or may not decrease jagged edges or interlacing errors.
Can't be much clearer than that. Thanks for the explanation.

Is there a way on the remote to stop seeing FBI warnings etc etc on the start of dvds? Just want to start a movie at the first logo!

Is it the same for both players 971 & 970?

Thanks in advance

You can usually bypass the FBI warnings and other UPO by pressing skip, fast forwarding, or pressing Stop then Menu to directly access the main film.

You can also download the unofficial firmware and not have to worry about them.

Just jumped aboard the Oppo ship. I've already gone through the whole thread (and my eyes hurt), but have several questions remaining.

Firstly, my equipment setup:
1) Akai PDP 5073TM, w/hdmi/component. Native res. is 720p. The panel itself is pretty good, but is very bare bones in features (I know the scaler is crap, hence the oppo purchase). I've turned off all enhancers (because they're crap).
2) oppo dvd player
3) IODATA AvelLinkplayer
4) HT reciever

I am quite satisfied with the unit, but have noticed several issues. I can put up with them, but they are a bit distracting at times. I just received the unit 2 days ago, and have been told that it was shipped with the most recent FW. I already had the player/monitor calibrated, and the HDMI handshake was very quick.

I loaded up X-Men 2, WS edition. During the opening scene when that mutant attacked the White House, I got a lot of tearing in the picture. They were happening with the mutant moving (not moving very quickly either, so i don't think the refresh rate is the issue), and when the secret service agents were moving around. The tearing was VERY obvious, and at first I though it was just me, but it repeated itself several times.

I have the oppo outputting at 720p, which should mean that the even/odd fields are being drawn simultaneously, am I correct? So, I shouldn't be seeing the tearing at all. As advised by the thread gurus, I have left the TrueLife feature on, CCS off, and sharpness off/low. I've experimented the past couple days, and have seen the MB, and continue to notice slight shimmering. I suppose this issue was never resolved by the engineers? I see this at 1080i also (but strangely, 1080i looks pretty good [I thought it was supposed to be better at native?!]).

Lastly, I am curious about the sound. It sounds great now, routed through the reciever via coax. In the Audio menu, it allows you choose between lower to higher bitrates, ie, 48K, 96K, etc. What is the benefit of this feature? What should I use? Would there be distortion at the higher output levels (I did notice that the DTS logo says 96, but is it related?)? Or is this feature strictly for Analogue 5.1 out?

Thanks in advance!

I may not be the first person that has noticed this, but no matter which power state the player is in, if you rapidly double "double-click" or "triple-click" the power putton on the remote, the 971H always seems to power "off".

I'm checking with Oppo to make sure that double- or triple-clicking is not harmful to the player's electronics, because using this trick, I've been able to program pseudo "on" and "off" macros on my URC-100 remote.

If anyone else feels like experimenting with this technique, I'd be interested in hearing what works best for them (e.g., double- or triple clicking, once or repeated?).

/steve

I have tried to search the thread for discrete power of commands for this player and must be doing something wrong as many posts totally unrelated to a power off discrete come up. Suggestions or help is appreciated.

What I am looking for is a discrete off command, or a work around for a discrete off command. I went to remotecentral and downloaded one of the Oppo971H files and it did not have a discrete off command as the "off" also turns the TV on.

This dvd player is hooked up to a 60A2000 tv and the remote I have is a Home Theater Master MX700.

Thanks for the help -

My workaround seems to work like a charm for me. For "off", try a macro that goes something like "power, power, pause .5 or 1 sec, power, power". For "on", try "power, power, power, pause .5 or 1 sec, and then power".

I can't recall exactly what I did, because the URC-100 has no PC interface that will allow me to read back my commands, but if you experiment, it will work. My macros seem to work 100% of the time. The precise sequence may be remote or player-dependent, however.

I'm just waiting to hear from Oppo to make sure that what I'm doing won't hurt the electronics in the long run.

/steve

Mark, I don't understand, I have the MX-500 which is similar to your MX-700. I programmed the OPPO remotes buttons one by one and when I switch the uni-remote to control the DVD player I set it up so that the big red POWER button turns on the OPPO. Did you program the buttons individually? Am I misunderstanding you and you are looking for a macro command, not just a DVD On-Off?

I am looking for a discrete power off command for the Oppo. I know that the big red "power" button on the Oppo remote turns the TV off, it is just that it is a toggle button that also turns to Oppo on.

When I am programming a macro on my MX700, I need a discrete off command to turn off the dvd player if it is on, I don't want to turn on the dvd player if it is off when hitting the master "off" macro on the MX-700. Make sense?

Please keep me update (pm or post here) if your workaround works and it is ok with Oppo.

Please keep me update (pm or post here) if your workaround works and it is ok with Oppo.

After extensive testing, my macros appear to work 100% of the time.

I don't anticipate a "red light" from Oppo, but you never know.

/steve

any response for post 6872?? please?

any response for post 6872?? please?

I don't own that movie, so I'm unable to comment on the video tearing you're seeing.

Regarding the bit rate setting, you should output the highest bit rate your HT receiver supports. You should be able to find this information in the receiver's manual. This assumes, of course, that you're using either an optical or fiber optic digital connection between the Oppo and your receiver.

In theory, a higher bit rate will allow for more faithful reproduction of the source audio. Depending on the quality of your receiver and speakers, however, if you do notice a difference, it will probably be subtle rather than dramatic.

/steve

I don't own that movie, so I'm unable to comment on the video tearing you're seeing.

Regarding the bit rate setting, you should output the highest bit rate your HT receiver supports. You should be able to find this information in the receiver's manual. This assumes, of course, that you're using either an optical or fiber optic digital connection between the Oppo and your receiver.

In theory, a higher bit rate will allow for more faithful reproduction of the source audio. Depending on the quality of your receiver and speakers, however, if you do notice a difference, it will probably be subtle rather than dramatic.

/steve

Thanks steve. In regards to the tearing, it's happening on just about every DVD I'm watching. It's very random, and I can't replicate it. It doesn't matter if the scene is panning across or static (while movie is playing). So far I can tell it's only happening in the 720p setting. It's as if the oppo can't process the video fast enough...

looking for a new player for my IN72. do you guys think i should go with this one or the 970. thanks

Noticed something very odd when I started working my way through the 2nd season of "Lost" this weekend.

The audio portion will not start playing for 2-3 seconds after each episode starts; usually just long enough to miss "Previously, on Lost," but sometimes a bit of dialog gets, well, "Lost" as well. This is while listening to the DD5.1 audio, I haven't tried it on the 2.0 track. Connection to my receiver is via TOSLink.

I don't seem to have a sync problem; the video and audio material is perfectly synchronized, once the audio kicks in.

Anyone else seeing something similar? Do I have some setting incorrectly configured?

Noticed something very odd when I started working my way through the 2nd season of "Lost" this weekend.

The audio portion will not start playing for 2-3 seconds after each episode starts; usually just long enough to miss "Previously, on Lost," but sometimes a bit of dialog gets, well, "Lost" as well. This is while listening to the DD5.1 audio, I haven't tried it on the 2.0 track. Connection to my receiver is via TOSLink.

I don't seem to have a sync problem; the video and audio material is perfectly synchronized, once the audio kicks in.

Anyone else seeing something similar? Do I have some setting incorrectly configured?

Yes, I am having the exact same symptoms. It does it with coax as well as the TOSLink...I tried both. It appears to be a quirk with the combination of the OPPO and the Lost Season 2 DVDs. I threw a couple of them in a Cyberhome and it does NOT happen.

It's an interesting issue, but now that I've finished Season 2 I do not plan on losing any sleep over it... :D

-Toonces

Yes, I am having the exact same symptoms. It does it with coax as well as the TOSLink...I tried both. It appears to be a quirk with the combination of the OPPO and the Lost Season 2 DVDs. I threw a couple of them in a Cyberhome and it does NOT happen.

It's an interesting issue, but now that I've finished Season 2 I do not plan on losing any sleep over it... :D

-Toonces

But what about season 3? :D

I did a little more research, and discovered the following:

It occurs regardless of whether DD 5.1 or 2.0 is selected
It does NOT occur with the first listed episode on each DVD
It does NOT occur on my other DVD player, a Pioneer DV563SA


My suspicion is that the Oppo seeks immediately to the index of the episode and starts playing. It then seeks to the corresponding point in the audio stream for the selected track and starts playing that, but this lags behind the video.

My basis for the above is that the video portion starts playing much sooner on the Oppo than the Pioneer; the Pioneer seems to wait until the audio portion is synced before playing the video.

I think this is worth an email to Oppo. "Lost" Season 2 can't be the only DVD set that causes this problem.

Speaking of e-mails to Oppo, here's their response to my question about whether or not my macros might hurt the player:

Our engineers do not believe that this should be a problem, but they
have no proof to back up these claims. There has been no testing with
the DVD player with this kind of power manipulation, but we do not
forsee any issue with it.

But what about season 3? :D

I did a little more research, and discovered the following:

It occurs regardless of whether DD 5.1 or 2.0 is selected
It does NOT occur with the first listed episode on each DVD
It does NOT occur on my other DVD player, a Pioneer DV563SA


(snip)


Got a response from Oppo, on a Sunday no less!

"We have received complaints about Lost Season 2 and the OPDV971H and DV-970HD product, but have not discovered what is causing this audio error. No other boxsets are known to have this error associated to them. It is something that we are investigating, but at this time we do not know the root cause, or its fix."

Obviously not the response I was hoping for, but it sounds like they're looking into it.

Is the current oppo 971 DVI output circuitry robust enough to tolerate a DVI-HDMI adaptor plus 20 feet of HDMI cable?

As HDMI is spec'ed for longer distances I wonder if the new model with native HDMI output would be worth waiting for those with a bit of a run. I recognize that the signal format and voltages of DVI and HDMI are the same, but IF the DVI output circuitry is designed for shorted distances AND an adaptor is needed in line, perhaps the DVI to HDMI solution would be more prone to sparklies as compared to a straight HDMI run.

Anyone want to chime in with success stories in the 15 to 30 foot range?

My 6 meter DVI cable for my InFocus 4805 projector from my 971 has no abnormalities.

Anyone want to chime in with success stories in the 15 to 30 foot range?

I'm using a 25' DVI-HDMI with a HDMI-DVI adapter to my Optoma H78 projector. No problems at all.

I personally would recommend not using an adapter, as the possibilities of dropping data greatly increases when you interupt the signal.

I'm planning on using a 40' DVI-HDMI from my ProjectionDesign Action Model Two projector with a HDMI-DVI adapter to the Oppo.

Do you think i will get into problems?

I'm planning on using a 40' DVI-HDMI from my ProjectionDesign Action Model Two projector with a HDMI-DVI adapter to the Oppo.

Do you think i will get into problems?

That's my exact setup to a BenQ PE7700. Works great.

Joe

You all probably know this but thought I would pass it along anyway. I emailed Oppo for a discrete off command and this is their response:

"Mark,

The OPDV971H does not support Discrete On/Off codes. We have attempted
to do work arounds, but so far nothing has worked without causing other
unwanted errors. Some users have made quick macros for their remotes
which sends to very quick On/Off signals. A very fast signal will only
be interpreted once, as the DVD player has a relatively slow IR
response.

Best Regards,

Customer Service
OPPO Digital, Inc.
453 Ravendale Dr, Suite D
Mountain View, CA 94043
Service@oppodigital.com
Tel: 650-961-1118
Fax: 650-961-1119"

You all probably know this but thought I would pass it along anyway. I emailed Oppo for a discrete off command and this is their response:

"Mark,

The OPDV971H does not support Discrete On/Off codes. We have attempted
to do work arounds, but so far nothing has worked without causing other
unwanted errors. Some users have made quick macros for their remotes
which sends to very quick On/Off signals. A very fast signal will only
be interpreted once, as the DVD player has a relatively slow IR
response.

Best Regards,

Customer Service
OPPO Digital, Inc.
453 Ravendale Dr, Suite D
Mountain View, CA 94043
Service@oppodigital.com
Tel: 650-961-1118
Fax: 650-961-1119"

Hate to sound like a broken record, but my on/off macros are working 100% of the time. Success may be remote control dependent, so experiment. /s

Sorry, I didn't see that Oppo responded to your question. Looks like when I get home I'm doing some exxperimenting with various macros.

Thanks for the help. You wouldn't have a discrete for the new Sony 60A2000 for "Vid7" and "Vid8" would ya? A workaround after the tv has been on for awhile os to hit "Vid6" and then add a "TV/VID" command to switch it to Vid 7. Doesn't work when you just turn the TV on from being off and this is what I need next.

The never ending drama of a HT enthusiast I guess.

Thanks again for the help -

Sorry, I didn't see that Oppo responded to your question. Looks like when I get home I'm doing some exxperimenting with various macros.

Thanks for the help. You wouldn't have a discrete for the new Sony 60A2000 for "Vid7" and "Vid8" would ya? A workaround after the tv has been on for awhile os to hit "Vid6" and then add a "TV/VID" command to switch it to Vid 7. Doesn't work when you just turn the TV on from being off and this is what I need next.

The never ending drama of a HT enthusiast I guess.

Thanks again for the help -

Don't have it, but you might want to bookmark this page in case anyone comes up with one:

http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/files/rcfiles.cgi?area=mx700&db=devices&br=sony&dv=television

The MX-700 codes are compatible with the MX-850. Perhaps one of the other Sony TV's listed here may be compatible with your model.

(Also, you might try inserting a pause between TV "on" and the component commands.)

/s

Apparently just a minor tweak to address an occasional missing center channel audio bug:

http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h_support.html#

MVer: 05.00.01.07 Batch: 11-0830, 11-0830B and 10-0821B
Release Date: September 22, 2006

Summary of Changes in This Release:

* This release addresses a rare occurrence of no center audio channel output through the 5.1ch analog audio output. It also includes all new features and improvements from the 10-0720 major release version.
* The above three batch numbers are equivalent firmware releases used at different stages of production.

Is there a way to make the screensaver kick on after it's been sitting on the menu for a minute or so? Whenever a movie ends, it just kicks back to the menu, and stays there. Right now, I believe the screensaver is only activated when the movie is paused for a minute, but there have been many times I have come down in the morning to find my roommate passed out on the couch, and the tv is showing the dvd menu from the movie he started watching when I went to bed, and that scares me that I'm going to wake up one morning and have Steve Carell's head permanently burned in to my screen (the last movie he did that with was 40 year old virgin).

There is no way to initiate the screensaver when disc playback has still been initiated.

I loaded up X-Men 2, WS edition. During the opening scene when that mutant attacked the White House, I got a lot of tearing in the picture. They were happening with the mutant moving (not moving very quickly either, so i don't think the refresh rate is the issue), and when the secret service agents were moving around. The tearing was VERY obvious, and at first I though it was just me, but it repeated itself several times.


Mooshoo, the problem you are experiencing sounds like a description of ghosting, which happens if the noise reduction feature is turned on. Turn it off and play your favorite movies again and see if that makes a difference. If it still exists, see if it is on in the television settings and turn that off just to see if that changes anything with the TV processing.

Best Regards,

Chris

Apparently just a minor tweak to address an occasional missing center channel audio bug:

http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h_support.html#

Thanks for alerting us. Not sure if I am going to put it in, as I don't use those outputs. Has anyone upgraded the firmware and noticed any (inadvertant) performance tweaks that we may want?

Justin

Thanks for alerting us. Not sure if I am going to put it in, as I don't use those outputs. Has anyone upgraded the firmware and noticed any (inadvertant) performance tweaks that we may want?

Justin

I see no changes. I'll recalibrate the display tonight to see if anything comes out differently, but I am not expecting anything new.

-Bill

Thanks for alerting us. Not sure if I am going to put it in, as I don't use those outputs. Has anyone upgraded the firmware and noticed any (inadvertant) performance tweaks that we may want?

Justin

The Firmware should be exactly like the 10-0720 Firmware, except that OPPO fixed a rare occurance where the center channel does not operate properly when using the digital coaxial or optical outputs and mutli-channel analog. No other tweaks should be present.

The Firmware should be exactly like the 10-0720 Firmware, except that OPPO fixed a rare occurance where the center channel does not operate properly when using the digital coaxial or optical outputs. No other tweaks should be present.

Hmm. OPPO says "This release addresses a rare occurrence of no center audio channel output through the 5.1ch analog audio output."

Dana

It can effect the digital co-axial and optical outputs, though that is even more rare.

Hmm. OPPO says "This release addresses a rare occurrence of no center audio channel output through the 5.1ch analog audio output."

Dana

I do have this problem with RCA cables. Do you think this fix is related to what I am experiencing?

I'm having these center channel dropouts in volume that seem to be addressed in this lastest firmware. I contacted oppo via email about this problem about 3 weeks ago and was told to check settings and connections in my oppo dvd player and my receiver to make sure everything was correct, i did many, many times but the trouble still happened. I came to the conculsion that the processing chip in the receiver was causing the trouble and sent it off to yamaha (out of warranty) to have it tested and checked. now i read that oppo is aware of and addressing what sounds to be exactly the trouble im having. it will cost me money now as yamaha charges for testing of my receiver. whould have been nice if oppo would have informed me of this trouble with their dvd player a few weeks ago in one of the many emails that were sent back and forth between me and their tech support. i would have updated firmware for the fix. i sent off the yamaha last friday and im sure yamaha will find nothing wrong with the receiver.

The fix was not designed until 2 weeks ago. And even then, the test egnineers at the manufacturing plant, not at OPPO, where the ones that had discovered the problem when several of the units did not pass QA.

Sorry guys, couldn't quite face trailing through the entire thread, but could someone tell me what the Oppo uses for black - 0 or 7.5 IRE?

7.5 Ire

Thanks mate, suspected it would be. Will adjust my PJ accordingly when it gets here.

The OPDV971H uses Studio RGB levels, which is at 7.5 IRE.

Thank you. Since GSB seems to have disappeared, someone has to fill his shoes and be a posting machine. OOPS! Lost my subscription to this thread and slipped off the edge of the earth for a while! Fortunately, I was able to hold on with my fingernails. Thankfully too, I left my shoes behind for Neuromancer to fill. Thanks ol' chap! Carry on!! I'll get some new shoes...

Gary

GSB,

It is not like this thread is hard to find!

And I have surpassed your post count, good sir.

lol

Now, now... It's not a competition. 2 knowledgeable & dedicated forum dwellers are better than one. :)

I think we all win, here.

I'm thinking of getting a 971, but given the rumors of a forthcoming replacement with a native HDMI jack, as well as the sudden disappearance of the unit from amazon, I'm wondering if a new model isn't poised to hit the market. The 971 is still available on the Oppo web site, AFAIK.

If you were in the market right now, would you buy a 971 today, or would you wait for the replacement?

Thanks for helping me to decide. :D

Mooshoo, the problem you are experiencing sounds like a description of ghosting, which happens if the noise reduction feature is turned on. Turn it off and play your favorite movies again and see if that makes a difference. If it still exists, see if it is on in the television settings and turn that off just to see if that changes anything with the TV processing.

Best Regards,

Chris

Christopher,

Nope, it's not the Noise Reduction function that's doing it. I never use that function, on either the DVD player nor the TV end. Ghosting would lead to blurry images. In my case, I am having distinct tearing on the picture. Thanks though

I'm thinking of getting a 971, but given the rumors of a forthcoming replacement with a native HDMI jack, as well as the sudden disappearance of the unit from amazon, I'm wondering if a new model isn't poised to hit the market. The 971 is still available on the Oppo web site, AFAIK.

If you were in the market right now, would you buy a 971 today, or would you wait for the replacement?

Thanks for helping me to decide. :D

Both units are supposedly identical performance wise, with the only difference being the addition of HDMI and SACD. Oh, and it's black. It's supposed to be available this fall so I guess I would wait if the new features mentioned were important to you. However, Oppo has been known to delay the release of it's merchandise because of their high quality standards. I would probably spring for the 971 if I had to wait more than a couple of months. Either way you go, you're going to love the player. :)

They're cheap players, so why wait?

"Fall" could be December 20th, for all we know. Why deprive yourself of it when we're talking about a $199 US unit? I could understand if you'd be talking about a $1999 US-priced unit. ;)

Well, if those are the only differences, there's not much point in waiting. I thought maybe there would be some other "must-have" features that would have me kicking myself a month or two down the road, but it doesn't sound as though that's the case.

Thanks again for the help!

And I have surpassed your post count, good sir. Fooey! Odometer fraud! What's your dirty overclocking trick?

Gary

Either way you go, you're going to love the player. :)That's for sure! I have the 970 and the 971, and I love them both. Now I'll just have to have a third OPPO player!

Gary

I have my 971 connected to a Samsung HL-S4666W using DVI/HDMI. I also have a HTPC connected using RGB. When playing back AVI files, it seems to me that the HTPC produces a better picture. There is distortion (don't know what to really call it) in the darker areas of the picture when played through the DVD player but not through the HTPC. Is this normal or is there a setting I should adjust. Need some help, new to all this. :o :confused:
I also have a sammy hls4666. It's a month old and the picture looks great with the default settings. Today, I just received the oppo unit and connected it to my sammy and the picture looks awful. I tried various DVDs with all 4 resolution settings and each time I would compare it to my old progressive scan Toshiba unit -- the oppo looked awful while the Toshiba looked good. Based on all the reviews I read I anticipated a considerable improvement -- after all the Oppo is an upconverting unit which is connected to hdmi ports while my Toshiba (over 6 years old) does not upconvert and it is connected to an s-video port.

I did try to change some video settings on the oppo but it made things look even worse.

I've read through quite a few posts but most of the issues seem to be about audio and synching problems. I don't really know the terminology but based on what I've read there is a ton of macroblocking. In fact one of the dvds I played on both units was "v for vendetta" -- at the beginning of the movie there is a scene that opens up with a completely black screen and then a small light appears on the screen while 95% of the screen remains black. On the Toshiba it was completely black while on the oppo unit there appeared to be reddish worms moving around through the black part.

Is this a defective unit? Compatability issue with my TV? Any ideas.
Thanks.

I dont post here much, but I have the Sammy HLR 4266w and the oppo is excellent on my display. Do you have the oppo DVI set to proper resolution? This is what got me at first, until I set the oppo to 1080i. The DVI button is on the bottom left of your oppo controller and you cant do it while a disc is playing. Press stop, and change to preferred setting. Have you calibrated with Avia? Latest Firmware?

That's for sure! I have the 970 and the 971, and I love them both. Now I'll just have to have a third OPPO player!

Gary

How often does one buy something and actually feel guilty about the purchase or feel like your taking advantage of someone? When you consider the excellent quality of the machine, the second to none customer service, and the $199 price tag I actually feel like I should include the guys at Oppo on my Xmas card list or something! :)

Well, I wouldn't go quite as far as that, but I do appreciate OPPO's staying on the case with firmware. My experience with the 971 is perhaps a little different than most 971 owners. Before the 971 I had the Pioneer 9500 ($2000) and the Denon 3910 ($1200). I wanted the best Universal player I could find at the time. The Denon had a slightly cleaner/sharper pq than the 971. I know, Secrets rated them one point below the OPPO, but having had them both for a long time, I'd say the Denon pq wins by a nose. That's an impressive statement, considering the huge price difference. The OPPO definitely had clearer dialogue though. Certain words that seemed mumbled or unintelligible were much easier to understand from the OPPO. So for watching movies, the OPPO is easier on the ears. I still wanted better audio quality than the Denon, so I sold it for the Pioneer 9500, assuming video pq would be at least equal to the Denon. Well, it wasn't. It wasn't even close. Pioneer's video processing created a softer, more blurred pq, (not "filmlike") as some like to call it. BUT, the Pioneer just absolutely KILLED the Denon and The OPPO as a CD player. It rivaled audiophile players I'm familiar with that cost thousands more. It was so beautiful to listen to that it was difficult to let it go, but the pq was just too far from the Denon's. Trying the OPPO was a relief. The pq was 98% that of the Denon and it sounded better than the Denon as well. Is it a great CD player? No. Is it quite acceptable, yes. It's been a great player to have while waiting for the HD DVD format fallout. I'll probably get the new OPPO, since I have at least 30 SACD's and even if it down rez' them, at least they'll play. Hopefully, they'll put all the firmware goodies of the 971 right into the new one. An amazing achievement under $200 I think, but I don't put it up on quite so high a pedestal after hearing the magnificent Pioneer 9500 and watching the Denon 3910.

It just ocurred to me that the slight pq difference between the Denon and the OPPO may have been from the Denon having a detachable power cord (or not). I wish OPPO would include a detachable power cord on the new model. I like putting slightly heavier duty power cords on most of my components. Sometimes I see no difference and sometimes I see a little less hash, hence clearer blacks. Not trying to start a power cord debate here, just mentioning my preference.

Well, I wouldn't go quite as far as that, but I do appreciate OPPO's staying on the case with firmware. My experience with the 971 is perhaps a little different than most 971 owners. Before the 971 I had the Pioneer 9500 ($2000) and the Denon 3910 ($1200). I wanted the best Universal player I could find at the time. The Denon had a slightly cleaner/sharper pq than the 971. I know, Secrets rated them one point below the OPPO, but having had them both for a long time, I'd say the Denon pq wins by a nose. That's an impressive statement, considering the huge price difference. The OPPO definitely had clearer dialogue though. Certain words that seemed mumbled or unintelligible were much easier to understand from the OPPO. So for watching movies, the OPPO is easier on the ears. I still wanted better audio quality than the Denon, so I sold it for the Pioneer 9500, assuming video pq would be at least equal to the Denon. Well, it wasn't. It wasn't even close. Pioneer's video processing created a softer, more blurred pq, (not "filmlike") as some like to call it. BUT, the Pioneer just absolutely KILLED the Denon and The OPPO as a CD player. It rivaled audiophile players I'm familiar with that cost thousands more. It was so beautiful to listen to that it was difficult to let it go, but the pq was just too far from the Denon's. Trying the OPPO was a relief. The pq was 98% that of the Denon and it sounded better than the Denon as well. Is it a great CD player? No. Is it quite acceptable, yes. It's been a great player to have while waiting for the HD DVD format fallout. I'll probably get the new OPPO, since I have at least 30 SACD's and even if it down rez' them, at least they'll play. Hopefully, they'll put all the firmware goodies of the 971 right into the new one. An amazing achievement under $200 I think, but I don't put it up on quite so high a pedestal after hearing the magnificent Pioneer 9500 and watching the Denon 3910.
Why not have your OPPO modded to upgrade the audio performance?

I have the Panasonic TH-50PX60U and was wondering if I should get the 971 or the 970?

-Been reading that the 971 might have the "macroblocking issue" with the Panasonic plasma. (Although this might give me the superior PQ) (Not sure just how hard it is to correct this issue) (Ideally would like to just plug and play with minimal setup)

-Do I get the 970 because it is less difficult to set up (Just let the plasma do the work) (Be satisfied with a good pictue but knowing the 971 would've given me even better PQ)

I've been using the "search feature" for the last 30 minutes on the 971 and 970 thread and cant find a definitive answer. (Seems like a lot of TH-50PX60U owners have asked these questions but have not gotten specific answers)

Any help is greatly appreciated!

Quoting jimsfield. "Why not have your OPPO modded to upgrade the audio performance?"
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Not necessarily a bad idea but not for me. I prefer to be able to hear what I'm getting first if possible, or at least hear testimonials from forum members whose opinions I've grown to respect. Also, I'm sort of waiting to see what happens with the new HD DVD players. If there's a universal model that sounds good I'll get one. A few of Sony's, Denon's and Pioneer's DVD players sounded real good, so I hold out a bit longer.

I dont post here much, but I have the Sammy HLR 4266w and the oppo is excellent on my display. Do you have the oppo DVI set to proper resolution? This is what got me at first, until I set the oppo to 1080i. The DVI button is on the bottom left of your oppo controller and you cant do it while a disc is playing. Press stop, and change to preferred setting. Have you calibrated with Avia? Latest Firmware?
Yeah I've tried it with all 4 resolutions -- 480, 540, 720 and 1080 -- they all look equally bad. I have an avia disk but the picture on my sammy looks so good with the default settings I haven't bothered but I'll have to check it out. I'll check the firmware but the picture is so bad I find it hard to believe that that would do anything. I think it's got to be a defective unit.

Oppo customer service has been very responsive to my dilemna and are going to check out the unit and get back to me.

Thanks for your response.

I also have a sammy hls4666. It's a month old and the picture looks great with the default settings. Today, I just received the oppo unit and connected it to my sammy and the picture looks awful... the Oppo is an upconverting unit which is connected to hdmi ports while my Toshiba (over 6 years old) does not upconvert and it is connected to an s-video port.

I did try to change some video settings on the oppo but it made things look even worse...

I don't really know the terminology but based on what I've read there is a ton of macroblocking.

Is this a defective unit? Compatability issue with my TV? Any ideas. OK, based on your descriptions, your problem is almost certainly calibration.

I have a Samsung DLP like yours. With proper calibration, the picture from the OPPO is incredible.

Your TV's HDMI and S-video inputs have completely different signal paths. You are required to calibrate the TV for every input, and for every different device you connect to those inputs. Do not fiddle with the OPPO's settings. Set them back to defaults (0), and use the Avia disk to calibrate the TV. Before you begin, switch the Samsung to Cinema/Movie mode, Warm 1/2, and turn off DNIe (if at all possible). Turn the Contrast up as far as it will go (unless it crushes the white steps at the brightest end of the grayscale).

Calibration significantly suppresses macroblock-enhance too... though eliminating it completely may take considerably more effort. (Bear in mind that many DVD's will show macroblocking on ANY player, especially with digital outputs).

Gary

I have a question regarding the Oppo OPD971H firmware. Is the firmware listed on the first page of this thread the most current firmware? I used the instructions for checking the firmware on my recently purchased OPD971H, and it does not match any of the firmware versions listed.

I have a question regarding the Oppo OPD971H firmware. Is the firmware listed on the first page of this thread the most current firmware? I used the instructions for checking the firmware on my recently purchased OPD971H, and it does not match any of the firmware versions listed.

No, there have been a couple of new versions since 0320. The latest can be found on the Oppo site at http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h_support.html

David,

Thanks!

How often does one buy something and actually feel guilty about the purchase or feel like your taking advantage of someone? When you consider the excellent quality of the machine, the second to none customer service, and the $199 price tag I actually feel like I should include the guys at Oppo on my Xmas card list or something! :)No kidding! When I saw the quality of the packaging, performance of the player, and the included DVI-DVI and DVI-HDMI cables, and put that together with their support track record, I was beyond happy.

Hello,

Thank you Neuromancer and GSB for the continuing help. The first post has been updated with the link to the new firmware.

Paul

OK, based on your descriptions, your problem is almost certainly calibration.

I have a Samsung DLP like yours. With proper calibration, the picture from the OPPO is incredible.

Your TV's HDMI and S-video inputs have completely different signal paths. You are required to calibrate the TV for every input, and for every different device you connect to those inputs. Do not fiddle with the OPPO's settings. Set them back to defaults (0), and use the Avia disk to calibrate the TV. Before you begin, switch the Samsung to Cinema/Movie mode, Warm 1/2, and turn off DNIe (if at all possible). Turn the Contrast up as far as it will go (unless it crushes the white steps at the brightest end of the grayscale).

Calibration significantly suppresses macroblock-enhance too... though eliminating it completely may take considerably more effort. (Bear in mind that many DVD's will show macroblocking on ANY player, especially with digital outputs).

Gary
Cool... I'll try that this weekend.
Thanks...

gilpv ...what DVD were you using to test?

Hello,

Thank you Neuromancer and GSB for the continuing help. The first post has been updated with the link to the new firmware.

PaulGood heavens Paul! Thought you'd slipped on a peel and plunged off a precipice into oblivian! I understand you haven't been well? I hope you'll be OK... we want to see you here more often!

Gary

Considering purchasing this unit however do not have access to a computer at home where I would be able to download firmware updates. Will OPPO send me a disc with the most recent firmware fixes?

Considering purchasing this unit however do not have access to a computer at home where I would be able to download firmware updates. Will OPPO send me a disc with the most recent firmware fixes?


From Oppo's website.
Q : What implementation options do I have to upgrade to the new firmware?
A : We offer you two options:

Contact OPPO or the OPPO authorized reseller from which you purchased your unit for an authorized firmware upgrade. This process will require the DVD unit to be sent to OPPO or an authorized OPPO reseller for firmware upgrade. Due to the technical nature of the operation, we highly recommend that utilize this option. However, the customer will be responsible for shipping cost, and resellers may charge a nominal service fee.
Do it yourself (D-I-Y). If you choose this option, OPPO, or your OPPO authorized reseller, are not liable for potential equipment damage which may result from improper field firmware upgrade. Make sure you follow all the firmware upgrade instructions carefully and perform the upgrade with a very reliable AC power source.

From Oppo's website.
Q : What implementation options do I have to upgrade to the new firmware?
A : We offer you two options:

Contact OPPO or the OPPO authorized reseller from which you purchased your unit for an authorized firmware upgrade. This process will require the DVD unit to be sent to OPPO or an authorized OPPO reseller for firmware upgrade. Due to the technical nature of the operation, we highly recommend that utilize this option. However, the customer will be responsible for shipping cost, and resellers may charge a nominal service fee.
Do it yourself (D-I-Y). If you choose this option, OPPO, or your OPPO authorized reseller, are not liable for potential equipment damage which may result from improper field firmware upgrade. Make sure you follow all the firmware upgrade instructions carefully and perform the upgrade with a very reliable AC power source.


Thanks...sending it out is not an option for me. I could always plan an evening and drive about 45 minutes to my brother's home in order to use his computer. Definitely a much better alternative to sending my player off in the mail. :)

EDIT...under their Q&A section...they say they will mail you a cd for you to do it yourself.
Q: I do not have access to burn CDs but I want to DIY. What should I do?
A: Contact service@oppodigital.com and we will mail you the firmware CD to upgrade.

"In general, OPPO recommends that you upgrade to a firmware if the release is called a "Major Release", since it incorporates important features and fixes. All OPDV971H players shipped on or after September 22, 2006 come with the latest firmware version (Batch 10-0821B, 11-0830B or 11-0830) thus do not need the firmware upgrade."

Considering purchasing this unit however do not have access to a computer at home where I would be able to download firmware updates. Will OPPO send me a disc with the most recent firmware fixes?

Just shoot OPPO an e-mail with your Shipping address and their will send out a new firmware either that day or the day after.

Doing it yourself is generally prefered, as it is very hard to screw up the firmware installation. But if you do fail it, it is still under Warranty, and can be fixed directly through OPPO.

I have a slightly unreasonable request to add to the wishlist. Would it be possible for a firmware update to include vertical stretching of 2.35:1 movies into a 16:9 panel? This would be a great feature for people with 16:9 projectors and Panamorph lenses who want to use all the panel resolution and brightness with 2.35:1 movies.

Just shoot OPPO an e-mail with your Shipping address and their will send out a new firmware either that day or the day after.

Doing it yourself is generally prefered, as it is very hard to screw up the firmware installation. But if you do fail it, it is still under Warranty, and can be fixed directly through OPPO.

I will most likely order my player direct from OPPO in about another month or so. With what they are saying on their site in relation to the most up to date firmware on players being shipped out after September 06, I seriously doubt I will need to worry about any further updates. :)

I have a slightly unreasonable request to add to the wishlist. Would it be possible for a firmware update to include vertical stretching of 2.35:1 movies into a 16:9 panel? This would be a great feature for people with 16:9 projectors and Panamorph lenses who want to use all the panel resolution and brightness with 2.35:1 movies.

Just a stretch vertically with the resulting distortion?

There are the various "zoom" modes with the 971 some of which will fill the 16:9 screen but none of them are of particularly high quality -- significant picture degradation.

Paul

I have the Panasonic TH-50PX60U and was wondering if I should get the 971 or the 970?

-Been reading that the 971 might have the "macroblocking issue" with the Panasonic plasma. (Although this might give me the superior PQ) (Not sure just how hard it is to correct this issue) (Ideally would like to just plug and play with minimal setup)

-Do I get the 970 because it is less difficult to set up (Just let the plasma do the work) (Be satisfied with a good pictue but knowing the 971 would've given me even better PQ)

I've been using the "search feature" for the last 30 minutes on the 971 and 970 thread and cant find a definitive answer. (Seems like a lot of TH-50PX60U owners have asked these questions but have not gotten specific answers)

Any help is greatly appreciated!

I have the exact same questions. Hope somebody can help us.

One of the more irritating aspects of "macroblock enhance" is that some displays can show it readily, others some, others not at all. My displays (Panasonic TC-22LH1 and the Hitachi 32HDT55) show it somewhat and precise calibration has all but eliminated it.

Responses to the "will I see it" over the past couple of years (beginning with the Panasonic DVD-S97) show that many Panasonic owners will report the artifact. I do not recall much follow up results regarding precise calibration. One can:

1) Try the 971 and take advantage of Oppo's return policy if the macroblock enahnce problem is a "deal breaker".

2) Try the 970HD and avoid the macroblock enhance issue and still have an outstanding picture, if not quite as refined as the 971.

Check the DVD-S97 Macroblock Enhance Survival Guide from my Panasonic DVD-S97 FAQ for suggestions to reduce/eliminate:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4569192&&#post4569192

Paul

I have the TH-50PX60U and the Oppo 971 and nevver noticed any Macroblocking issues. Also there is a new firmware 1.25 for the TH-50PX60U and other models that corrects clay face, sharpness and a couple other things. I took it and it appears the update improves picture quality.

Just a stretch vertically with the resulting distortion?

There are the various "zoom" modes with the 971 some of which will fill the 16:9 screen but none of them are of particularly high quality -- significant picture degradation.

Paul

Yes just a stretch vertically. The idea is that with front projectors an anamorphic lens in front of the projector lens then re-compresses the picture vertically (or stretches it horizontally) so that the full panel resolution and brightness are being used and the picture is no longer distorted.

For example if you have a panel resolution of 1280x720 then a 2.35:1 movie only uses approximately 1280x545 pixels, with black bars on top and below the image. If you stretch the picture vertically to use the full 1280x720 pixels then the whole panel is being used, gaining you extra resolution but distorting the picture (so that everything looks vertically elongated). If you then use a special anamorphic lens to compress the image vertically so the aspect ratio is once again 2.35:1 then the picture is no longer distorted. In the process you have gained extra resolution and now also extra lumens.

As a side issue this also helps people with LCD projectors who are worried about panel burn in, as sometimes after too many 2.35:1 movies you can see a difference in the areas showing the black bars on top and below the picture area. This way all the panel areas age at the same rate.

Well, if those are the only differences, there's not much point in waiting. I thought maybe there would be some other "must-have" features that would have me kicking myself a month or two down the road, but it doesn't sound as though that's the case.

It's black, which is why I'm waiting. Don't know if you care though.

It's black, which is why I'm waiting. Don't know if you care though.

If you don't mind a silver finish and don't need SACD support, one advantage of the 971H, in my opinion, is that it's DVI output does not enforce HDCP. Depending on how your display deals with HDCP, you won't get that annoying "handshaking" lag when you switch to your DVD input, whether you're connected DVI-DVI, or DVI-HDMI.

The 971H's lack of discrete on/off commands (like the 970HD's) was also a minor drawback, but I've been able to overcome that with macros on my remote.

/steve

I may be getting an HD projector soon and have been looking at a few DVD players that output 720p Divx... I asked Oppo about any players on the horizon that might do this and here is the response:

"There are no plans at this time for a HD-DivX/XviD DVD player at this
time. It is a feature we are looking into, but we have not looked into
content providers which can support such large resolution video
support."

I'm not sure what they mean by content providers... isn't just about everyone using the Oppo for Divx simply downloading their content??

content providers = hardware venders. They would be your MTK, Zoran, AM Logic, Sigma Design, and so forth. Basically the companies which make the decoding chipset.

Nevermind...wrong player :(

If you turn the player off at a certain point of the movie, when you turn it back on does the movie resume at that time or is the time lost and it restarts?

I have the exact same questions. Hope somebody can help us.

I have a Panasonic TH50PX60U and the Oppo 971. It works GREAT. I used the settings recommended on the PX60 settings thread and see NO evidence of macroblocking whatsoever. I was also debating on getting the 970 but I'm glad I took a chance and purchased the 971.

If you turn the player off at a certain point of the movie, when you turn it back on does the movie resume at that time or is the time lost and it restarts?

You have to make a breakpoint by pressing Eject then pressing the Power button on the remote control. The next time you turn on the DVD player, you will resume from your last played position.

If you turn the player off at a certain point of the movie, when you turn it back on does the movie resume at that time or is the time lost and it restarts?

No, however, with the latest firmwares, the position is saved when you press 'eject.'

Press the eject button before turning the unit off, and your position will be saved. Press 'select' after reinserting the DVD and playback will resume from the remembered position.

Note that it only stores the position of the LAST DVD played, unlike other players that remember up to the last 5 DVDs.

Note: I see Neuromancer beat me to it, which is to be expected. But I believe he left out the step where pressing 'select' is required :D

Actually, with the new firmware, you do not need the "Select" button. It defaults to resuming.

You have to make a breakpoint by pressing Eject then pressing the Power button on the remote control. The next time you turn on the DVD player, you will resume from your last played position.

Hacked firmware also saves breakpoint on Power off.

Hacked firmware also saves breakpoint on Power off.

Are you sure of this? Oppo has stated repeatedly that, since the power off function is a true hardware power-off and unlinked from any other functionality in the player, that it is impossible to do this. That was why they've placed that feature on the 'eject' button.

Actually, with the new firmware, you do not need the "Select" button. It defaults to resuming.

Which "new" firmware, Neuromancer? I've got 0720 on mine (pretty current), and I don't believe it resumes automatically. Unfortunately, I'm 800 miles from home at the moment, so I can't easily check it out :)

Are you sure of this? Oppo has stated repeatedly that, since the power off function is a true hardware power-off and unlinked from any other functionality in the player, that it is impossible to do this. That was why they've placed that feature on the 'eject' button.

OK. Only by power off by remote:)

Which "new" firmware, Neuromancer? I've got 0720 on mine (pretty current), and I don't believe it resumes automatically. Unfortunately, I'm 800 miles from home at the moment, so I can't easily check it out :)

It has been in there since the 10-0720 Firmware.

If not, then the 11-0830 Firmware. After several seconds if you do not press Stop, the disc will automatically be resumed.

So will this player be able to play HD and BD movies or not? It clearly states that the 970 can't, but I was wondering about the 971? I know I'm an idiot for asking but the jargon on the Oppo site is too in depth for a newb like me. I need it in plain english for now. Thanks for the help!

So will this player be able to play HD and BD movies or not?

No, at present Oppo only makes DVD players.

HD DVDs can only be played in HD DVD players.
Blu-rays can only be played in Blu-ray players.

This DVD player supports 7.1 and 6.1 ch?

This DVD player supports 7.1 and 6.1 ch?
No DVD player supports 7.1. The Oppo does support 6.1 Dolby Digital EX.

If you want 7.1, you'll need HD-DVD or Blu-ray.

I have a Panasonic TH50PX60U and the Oppo 971. It works GREAT. I used the settings recommended on the PX60 settings thread and see NO evidence of macroblocking whatsoever. I was also debating on getting the 970 but I'm glad I took a chance and purchased the 971.

thanks for the help. I really want SACD playback, so I may try and wait until the next model comes out. I guess my Pio 563A will just have to do for now.

I have a 32" Samsung Slimfit TV and a HT Onkyo 790, and I am deciding between a DVD Oppo 971 or 970, which dvd player recommends to me? thanks

All resolutions. Depending on the display, you may notice boarders around the entire image. Most displays will have a built in overscan, which masks this error.

I just received my 971 from amazon today. I spent a little time this evening comparing it to my Sony DVP-NS725P. The first thing I noticed was that the Sony seems to crop the image slightly on either side. On one particular disc, which was captured from a multi-generational VHS tape, the video is somewhat unstable, resulting in a wave edge along the left side of the picture. The Oppo shows this wave edge, whereas my Sony player crops it off.

On some discs there is a band of solid colored pixels that runs down one or both sides of the Oppo picture; as before, the Sony player crops them out of the displayed image. The color of these border bands varies; sometimes they are black, sometimes they are some other solid color. If I play these same DVDs on my computer using WinDVD I see the same wavy edges and colored borders that the Oppo displays. This suggests to me that the Oppo is, in fact, displaying the entire image that is present on the DVD, and that some (most?) other DVD players crop the image slightly on the sides so that you don't see the colored borders, wavy lines, and other "junk" that's there.

Been a while since I have read the board since I have been posting on my blog. With the new firmware, 11-0830, is there any reason to upgrade from the 10-0720? Are there any remarkable benefits?

Thanks

The only reason to update from the 10-0720 Firmware is if you experience center channel errors (ie. the channel drops out). Otherwise: no.

It has been in there since the 10-0720 Firmware.

If not, then the 11-0830 Firmware. After several seconds if you do not press Stop, the disc will automatically be resumed.
Back home today, and can confirm that "Select" is no longer needed to resume from save-on-eject with the 10-0720 firmware.

The only reason to update from the 10-0720 Firmware is if you experience center channel errors (ie. the channel drops out). Otherwise: no.


Thanks as usual.

So, I just bought a 971 for my 30" LG CRT the other day. Watched Lord of War on it last night (it was the only thing laying around at the time). Wow. Is macroblocking this bad on EVERY DVD? There were several scenes that were seriously unwatchable. It has been updated to the latest firmware and my tv is (reasonably) well calibrated. I'm connecting via a dvi-hdmi cable. Any tips on limiting the amount of macroblocking, or should I just sell this thing on Ebay and pick up a 970 instead (or wait until HD-DVD comes down in price)?

I've used the 971 with a 53" Sony CRT, a 20" LCD ViewSonic computer monitor, a 26" Samsung CRT, and now with a 2007 65" Mitsubishi DLP, and I rarely notice macroblocking with the last couple firmwares (early firmwares were very bad at times). It does though take some careful calibration to get rid of macroblocking, especially with the new DLP set.

How do you have the 971 set up?

If you still want to get rid of the 971, why don't you just return it? Have you had it more than 30 days?

I've used the 971 with a 53" Sony CRT, a 20" LCD ViewSonic computer monitor, a 26" Samsung CRT, and now with a 2007 65" Mitsubishi DLP, and I rarely notice macroblocking with the last couple firmwares (early firmwares were very bad at times). It does though take some careful calibration to get rid of macroblocking, especially with the new DLP set.

How do you have the 971 set up?

If you still want to get rid of the 971, why don't you just return it? Have you had it more than 30 days?


I bought mine used off of ebay, which is why I wouldn't return it. The oppo is connected via DVI > HDMI cable to my 30" LG CRT Direct view television (audio is run via optical to my receiver). I'm going to run through all of the settings once more on the oppo to make sure everything is set to reduce macroblocking, but if most DVD's are as bad as Lord of War (first time I watched the DVD last night, so the transfer might be ****), I will have to get rid of this player, as it was almost unwatchable at times (mostly dark scenes).

EDIT: Looks like it might just be the Lord of War transfer, as I popped in Anchorman and I didn't notice any macroblocking whatsoever. Granted, that is a much brighter movie, but the difference was extreme to say the least.

Just read on russian forum that author of hacked firmware now works on enabling high resolution (more than 720x576) playback. It already got some results - right now his player plays such divxes but image has alot of visual artefacts. I am crossing my fingers!

this dvd player is a good option for a 32" TV Samsung slimfit? model TXR3079WH or is better the 970HD?

I bought mine used off of ebay, which is why I wouldn't return it. The oppo is connected via DVI > HDMI cable to my 30" LG CRT Direct view television (audio is run via optical to my receiver). I'm going to run through all of the settings once more on the oppo to make sure everything is set to reduce macroblocking, but if most DVD's are as bad as Lord of War (first time I watched the DVD last night, so the transfer might be ****), I will have to get rid of this player, as it was almost unwatchable at times (mostly dark scenes).

EDIT: Looks like it might just be the Lord of War transfer, as I popped in Anchorman and I didn't notice any macroblocking whatsoever. Granted, that is a much brighter movie, but the difference was extreme to say the least.

Good test for macroblocking with lots of black are either of the Underworld movies. I have the current firmware, and I do not have macroblocking during these movies.

this dvd player is a good option for a 32" TV Samsung slimfit? model TXR3079WH or is better the 970HD?
For 32" TV the 970 should be fine...

It's probably been mentioned here a few times, but the thread is so huge it would take ages to find. I was wondering though, has anyone gone from the DV971 to the Toshiba HDDVD players? Are the Toshibas better up-scalers of SD DVDs?

Depends on who you talk to. Some people like the quality of the Toshiba HD-A1 over that of the OPPO (especially since you can do HD-DVD), but you will have to deal with slow bootups, slow disc read, and and an even worse remote control.

I personally would wait for the new Toshiba HD-A2 and the HD-XA2, as these new second generation players seem much more promising in terms of features and quality.

It's probably been mentioned here a few times, but the thread is so huge it would take ages to find. I was wondering though, has anyone gone from the DV971 to the Toshiba HDDVD players? Are the Toshibas better up-scalers of SD DVDs?

If your display suffers from MB enhancement, then Toshiba HD-DVD player may work out better. However, as posted above that current 1st gen HD-DVD players are clumsy and slow and faster 2nd gen HD-DVD players are scheduled for launch in few weeks.

As a footnote to comparison of the Oppo DV971H to the HD-DVD and Blue-Ray DVD players, according to CNET last spring, neither apparently will play out-of-region conventional DVDs. :( Of course the Oppo will! :cool:

"That said, HD-DVD and Blu-ray players should honor the nine-region system when playing standard DVDs--so don't expect to play out-of-region discs." http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-6463_7-6462511-2.html?tag=nav

Dana

The Oppo can very easily be made region free though. I'm not sure the same applies to the HD-A1.

The Oppo can very easily be made region free though. I'm not sure the same applies to the HD-A1.

Exactly. Sorry if I didn't make my point clear. The Oppoo can be easily made region-free. Apparently, the HD-DVD and Blu-ray players will enforce the nine region codes applicable to standard DVDs when playing them. And some of the new HD players won't play CDs either.

Dana

I bought mine used off of ebay, which is why I wouldn't return it. The oppo is connected via DVI > HDMI cable to my 30" LG CRT Direct view television (audio is run via optical to my receiver). I'm going to run through all of the settings once more on the oppo to make sure everything is set to reduce macroblocking, but if most DVD's are as bad as Lord of War (first time I watched the DVD last night, so the transfer might be ****), I will have to get rid of this player, as it was almost unwatchable at times (mostly dark scenes).

EDIT: Looks like it might just be the Lord of War transfer, as I popped in Anchorman and I didn't notice any macroblocking whatsoever. Granted, that is a much brighter movie, but the difference was extreme to say the least.
Unfortunately I don't have the Lord of War disc to see how that looks on my system for macroblocking. With an earlier firmware, to get rid of the worst of the macroblocking I actually had to turn everything off except CSS, so it might help with your system to try adjusting the settings in the Oppo in unconventional ways to see the affect on macroblocking.

Ok I've used the search function and can't seem to find anything. I have the Oppo 971h with a Z4 and Denon 2106. I know certain DTS tracks are crummy and won't synch correctly but the DD track? Sometimes it seems a little off so I'm wondering if its the Oppo factory setting of a 5ns delay in the audio menue. Anyone play with this setting and get any different results?

Many people experienced audio delays with the 971, so OPPO made various adjustments in their firmware upgrade. First, are you using the most current firmware? I haven't noticed an audio delay for a while now since installing current firmware. Occasionally a DVD is a little off as well. It's rare, but I have a Lucinda Williams DVD from Austin City Limits that has vocal sync issues on any DVD player.

Yep I did the most recent firmware update at least I think its the most recent I'll have to check. After the update most of it went away but there are some discs that still seem a little off synch. Having tried the audio delay setting but I may try it next.

I actually already ordered a 970. I had planned on setting its output to 480p and connecting it to my Panasonic 42PD50U plasma EDTV via component connection since the TV's maximum resolution is 480p (the TV downconverts everything above 480p down to 480p). I was thinking that the HDMI output from this player would be equal to the component output, since I'm "only" using 480p, but now I'm wondering if this is true. I could compare component connection against HDMI connection to my TV with the 970 set to output 480p in order to see which is "better", but this has got me thinking... should I have just gotten the 971 instead? So I guess my question is: if I'm watching a plasma TV that has a native resolution of 480p and has an HDMI input, (a) does the "digital" HDMI connection render a "better" image vs. component connection, and (b) which Oppo would better suit my needs, the 971 or 970? My "guess" to these answers is: (a) HDMI should be better since I will be getting 1:1 pixel mapping, and (b) the 971 might be better for me since it has the superior Faroudja de-interlacer. Features I really don't care about are 480i output, DVD-A, SACD, USB, flash card reader, Divx and up-conversion over component. My top priority is that I want the player with the BEST 480p output going to a plasma displaying native 480p, whether it be over HDMI or component. My second priority is good audio. Is the DD, DTS and 2 channel PCM audio from these players equal to one another?

THANKS!

What is the max upscale resolution this player will output from an Non-Encrypted DVD over the DVI output with the latest firmware ?

Does HDCP knock it down from 1080i?

I know a production (encrypted) disc will upscale to 1080i.

Thanks AVSForum :).

What is the max upscale resolution this player will output from an Non-Encrypted DVD over the DVI output with the latest firmware ?I don't understand why you are asking. The specs for the 971 are plainly on the Oppo site: http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h_specifications.html

Does HDCP knock it down from 1080i? I know a production (encrypted) disc will upscale to 1080i.HDCP controls content viewing over DVI or HDMI for HD media, but doesn't change it. I didn't think it was going to be applied to any SD media, so the Oppo 971 which only plays standard DVD's doesn't need or have HDCP. (Maybe you're thinking that an HDCP-compliant display might cripple a signal from a non-HDCP player, but the sources I Googled seemed to say that isn't done.)

I had heard conflicting info about HDCP content viewing over analog connections. One web reference says the HDCP processors are required to shut off component outputs when an HDCP signal is detected; others say the signal would be downverted to a low res signal (which composite already is). FWIW, I thought I read in this forum that the Oppo 971's max resolution (SD media of course) over analog connections was already only 480i.

What is the max upscale resolution this player will output from an Non-Encrypted DVD over the DVI output with the latest firmware ?

Does HDCP knock it down from 1080i?

I know a production (encrypted) disc will upscale to 1080i.

The OPDV971H is not HDCP compliant, so you do not have to worry about HDCP and CSS-encryption.

However, all upscaling is done through the DVI output, as the component output is only 480i through hardware design.

Exactly. Sorry if I didn't make my point clear. The Oppoo can be easily made region-free. Apparently, the HD-DVD and Blu-ray players will enforce the nine region codes applicable to standard DVDs when playing them. And some of the new HD players won't play CDs either.

Dana

Does making it region free void my warranty?

Does making it region free void my warranty?

No, it's a simple and reversible software adjustment to make it region-free.

Thanks Craig and Neuromancer for setting me straight. I just figured that ever since Samsung getting sued over their HDCP-off remote hack 'feature' on the 841, ALL players had to be HDCP compliant by default. I did a bit more research and voila, no HDCP on the Oppo, I guess I've got to sell my Samsungs and Zeniths and pick this bad boy up !!

Samsung and LG were in violation of their license agreements. OPPO did not sign HDCP and DVD CCA agreements until after the product was designed and shipped. All future products will be HDCP compliant.

I actually already ordered a 970. I had planned on setting its output to 480p and connecting it to my Panasonic 42PD50U plasma EDTV via component connection since the TV's maximum resolution is 480p (the TV downconverts everything above 480p down to 480p). I was thinking that the HDMI output from this player would be equal to the component output, since I'm "only" using 480p, but now I'm wondering if this is true. I could compare component connection against HDMI connection to my TV with the 970 set to output 480p in order to see which is "better", but this has got me thinking... should I have just gotten the 971 instead? So I guess my question is: if I'm watching a plasma TV that has a native resolution of 480p and has an HDMI input, (a) does the "digital" HDMI connection render a "better" image vs. component connection, and (b) which Oppo would better suit my needs, the 971 or 970? My "guess" to these answers is: (a) HDMI should be better since I will be getting 1:1 pixel mapping, and (b) the 971 might be better for me since it has the superior Faroudja de-interlacer. Features I really don't care about are 480i output, DVD-A, SACD, USB, flash card reader, Divx and up-conversion over component. My top priority is that I want the player with the BEST 480p output going to a plasma displaying native 480p, whether it be over HDMI or component. My second priority is good audio. Is the DD, DTS and 2 channel PCM audio from these players equal to one another?

THANKS!

Best 480p is going to come from the 971H over HDMI. The Faroudja de-interlacer in the 971H is, IMO, superior to the Mediatek's in the 970HD and the Panny's in the PD50U. Since you're only going to use 480p, I don't believe you'll have to worry about the potential Faroudja/Panny macroblocking issue.

Also, a minor bonus is that you will not have to deal with the HDCP handshake delay when you switch to the Panny's HDMI input. I believe Oppo still includes a DVI to HDMI cable with this unit.

/steve

hello everyone...
if I were to purchase the OPDV971H from Amazon right now... is it still a Region free dvd player..? I believe that it was stated this Oppo dvd player is region free in some of the initial posts on this thread. please correct me if I am misinformed.

kindest thanx,
paul

hello everyone...
if I were to purchase the OPDV971H from Amazon right now... is it still a Region free dvd player..? I believe that it was stated this Oppo dvd player is region free in some of the initial posts on this thread. please correct me if I am misinformed.

kindest thanx,
paul

You make it region free by entering a code with the remote. It's listed near the top of the thread, I believe.

-Bill

Press Setup.
Press "9210". A new window will appear.
Press "0".
Press Setup to exit.

Your DVD player is now region free.

I have a bit of problem with my 971. It starts developing quite annoying vibrating noise. I have just noticed it last night. It's loud on some DVDs and sometimes barely noticable on some DVDs. The DVDs are all GENUINE dvds not pirated ones. It still plays the discs but it's very annoying as you can notice the noise on some quiet scenes.

Have tried the same dvds on my Pioneer and they just played just fine, no noise and no vibrating at all.


Can anyone shed some light please? :confused:

I have a bit of problem with my 971. It starts developing quite annoying vibrating noise. I have just noticed it last night. It's loud on some DVDs and sometimes barely noticable on some DVDs. The DVDs are all GENUINE dvds not pirated ones. It still plays the discs but it's very annoying as you can notice the noise on some quiet scenes.

Have tried the same dvds on my Pioneer and they just played just fine, no noise and no vibrating at all.

Can anyone shed some light please? :confused:A loud vibration is not normal for this player, but I did experience it with a beta unit. If the player is slightly twisted due to the surface it is standing on, it could cause the loading tray to lightly contact other parts of the loading mechanism. The normal (near-silent) vibration in the drive may cause those parts to oscillate. It might help to prop one of the corners a little to relieve the twist. If that doesn't work, call OPPO and I'm sure they'd be happy to replace the player.

Gary

Samsung and LG were in violation of their license agreements. OPPO did not sign HDCP and DVD CCA agreements until after the product was designed and shipped. All future products will be HDCP compliant.Huh? Why would they need HDCP in a SD DVD player? I thought only Blu-Ray & HD DVD will have HDCP content, not standard def DVD's.

All HDMI devices (cable boxes, satellite receivers, DVD players, HD disc players, whatever) must be HDCP compliant - it's part of the HDMI spec. Likewise, many DVI devices (such as my Pace DC-550 HD cable box) include HDCP.

Huh? Why would they need HDCP in a SD DVD player? I thought only Blu-Ray & HD DVD will have HDCP content, not standard def DVD's.

There's no such thing as HDCP content anymore than there is Macrovision content in the analog world. What there is is a flag in the video segments on the DVD that tells the player whether or not it should generate copy protection when playing that segment. For analog outputs that's the Macrovision spoiler signal, and for digital outputs it's HDCP.

Huh? Why would they need HDCP in a SD DVD player? I thought only Blu-Ray & HD DVD will have HDCP content, not standard def DVD's.

AACS is for the copy protection of the analog outputs for Blu-ray and HD-DVD.

HDCP stands for High Definition Copyright Protection. This scheme is designed to dis-allow the end user to easily copy and distribute digital signals from a content source (DVD player, etc). HDCP is enabled for SD material since you can upconvert SD material to "HD Resolutions".

A loud vibration is not normal for this player, but I did experience it with a beta unit. If the player is slightly twisted due to the surface it is standing on, it could cause the loading tray to lightly contact other parts of the loading mechanism. The normal (near-silent) vibration in the drive may cause those parts to oscillate. It might help to prop one of the corners a little to relieve the twist. If that doesn't work, call OPPO and I'm sure they'd be happy to replace the player.

Gary

Additionally, a bad disc label can cause the loader to vibrate, as the disc will be spinning off center (one side will weigh slightly more than another side, so when you spin the disc at high speeds, it oscillates).

Another thing could be that you are loading content which is causing the loader to jog very quickly across the disc. Extreme movements of the laser head will cause the vibration sounds.

Check the pads at the bottom of the unit to ensure that they are all equal height.

As a last resort you can check the loader assembly. If one of the four screws is slightly loose, then you will get vibration errors.

I have just purchased the 970 oppo. While it is a nice player it is no dragon slayer. I have
$1,000 to purchase a top DVD player ( currently have a Rotel 1060 DVD). What would you
suggest I look at in this price point. I current have a Pioneer 6071 display.

I have just purchased the 970 oppo. While it is a nice player it is no dragon slayer. I have
$1,000 to purchase a top DVD player ( currently have a Rotel 1060 DVD). What would you
suggest I look at in this price point. I current have a Pioneer 6071 display.

Um, is this a trick question?

First off, if you purchased the 970, you're in the wrong forum, this is for the higher quality 971. However, if you meant to say 971, I'm not sure what to advise really, because the Oppo 971 has been rated as having a higher picture quality than a 2000 dollar DVD player by some reviews. You aren't going to get much better currently.

If you do only have the 970 though, my advice would be to send it back and get the 971 instead :)

I don't THINK that the panel you mentioned has any macroblocking issues with the 971, but you might want to do a search through this thread just to make sure.

I have just purchased the 970 oppo. While it is a nice player it is no dragon slayer. I have
$1,000 to purchase a top DVD player ( currently have a Rotel 1060 DVD). What would you
suggest I look at in this price point. I current have a Pioneer 6071 display.

If you've got $1000 to spend, why don't you just move up to real HD?