Also do not turn On Sharpness or the Contrast/Brightness settings on the DVD player if at all possible. THese settings will increase the amount of video buffering required, which will increase image retention and ghosting errors.

I have a Olevia 337H LCD HD display.

Picked up a refurb 971H from oppo directly couple of days back.

Didn't see much PQ improvement when upscaled to 720P.

Picture looks grainy. Btw I have calibrated the display with Avia.

Seen MB on highly compressed disks . On well mastered dvds like LOTR there is some improvement in PQ but not like WOW. There is some kind of video noise something
like very fine grainy in the background.

With older dvds PQ is not at all good.

Time to check 970H.

I have a Olevia 337H LCD HD display.

Picked up a refurb 971H from oppo directly couple of days back.

Didn't see much PQ improvement when upscaled to 720P.

Picture looks grainy. Btw I have calibrated the display with Avia.

Seen MB on highly compressed disks . On well mastered dvds like LOTR there is some improvement in PQ but not like WOW. There is some kind of video noise something
like very fine grainy in the background.

With older dvds PQ is not at all good.

Time to check 970H. See these posts:
Distinguishing Picture Differences (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9128032&&#post9128032).
Unnatural Artifacts Encoded in Many DVD's (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9553314&&#post9553314).

Be assured that if grain or macroblocking is recorded on a DVD, it can look worse on a 970, because the 970 is sharper.

Gary

See these posts:
Distinguishing Picture Differences (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9128032&&#post9128032).
Unnatural Artifacts Encoded in Many DVD's (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9553314&&#post9553314).

Be assured that if grain or macroblocking is recorded on a DVD, it can look worse on a 970, because the 970 is sharper.

Gary
Gary, Thanks much for the pointers. I tried following DVDs

Silent Hill - Horrible MB in dark scenes.
Hero - Grainy
LOTR - Grainy in some scenes.

Some old AVI file - None of above issues.

I burned a avi file on CD-RW(memorax) it played for 10 mins and stopped .
I burned another avi file on the same disc players says "No Disc".

May be my the player I got is defective (I got refurbed from Oppo)

I didn't see that much graininess and MB on my 5 year old KOSS player with 480p.

Thats why I want to try 970 to see how it goes. If it doesn't work well may be a cheapo player doing 480p is good enough for my display.

What's the best place to buy one of these currently? I can't seem to find one.

What's the best place to buy one of these currently? I can't seem to find one.

Call Oppo they few refurbs left . You can get them on ebay or your local craig list.

From oppo refurb carries one year warranty

Wow, are they going out of style or something? Or are they just that good?

Wow, are they going out of style or something? Or are they just that good?

They have been discontinued by opp and are replaced with 981

Wha? 981 doesn't have component outputs, correct? I guess I'd better fork out while I can still get one.

Wha? 981 doesn't have component outputs, correct?
That is correct - the 981HD lacks component outputs. The 971H has component outputs, but they are limited to 480i output. The 981HD also includes HDCP while the 971H does not, which can be an issue for folks with older DVI displays that don't include HDCP (any HDMI display will include HDCP because it is required by the HDMI spec).

I thought there was a hack to get 480p out of the component outputs.

I thought there was a hack to get 480p out of the component outputs.

Nope. 970 outputs 480p 0ver component. There is firmware hack to do upconverting over component on 970H.

OK I have a problem I hope someone can help me with. I purchased a Toshiba XA2 for my HT so I decided to move my 971 to the living room and hook it up to my Panny ED plasma via DVI. Last night I popped in Black Xmas and while I was waiting for my wife the Oppo went to the screen saver. I'm sitting there watching and I can see IR everywhere the oval Oppo sign goes on the screen. The screen also looks kind of washed out and grainy. I haven't experienced anything like this on any other inputs using any other devices. Do you think it has something to do with the Oppo or the DVI input on the Panny? Any ideas or advice would be greatly appreciated.

OK I have a problem I hope someone can help me with. I purchased a Toshiba XA2 for my HT so I decided to move my 971 to the living room and hook it up to my Panny ED plasma via DVI. Last night I popped in Black Xmas and while I was waiting for my wife the Oppo went to the screen saver. I'm sitting there watching and I can see IR everywhere the oval Oppo sign goes on the screen. The screen also looks kind of washed out and grainy. I haven't experienced anything like this on any other inputs using any other devices. Do you think it has something to do with the Oppo or the DVI input on the Panny? Any ideas or advice would be greatly appreciated. Your TV needs calibration. Leave the 971 at default settings and calibrate the TV (especially brightness in this case). Turn down the brightness until the image retention JUST goes away.

Gary

If you're playing a PAL Divx file, does the TV kick into PAL scaling mode? Just curious. Seems that there's a little jump before certain Divx files begin. I'm just wondering whether PAL divx files actually make a difference or not.

If you have the DVD player set to Auto rather than NTSC for the TV Type, then the DVD player will go into PAL. Otherwise, it will be NTSC from front to end.

Hi everyone-

Roughly 30-40% of the time, whenever I put in a DVD in my 971, the disc will not load. These are all just normal DVD movies.

When the disc fails to load correctly, I do not get an error message; rather, I start to hear a higher pitched, soft whirring from the player. Then I press eject and after about 10 seconds or so it will eject.

I always make sure that the disc is properly loaded on the tray, etc. There seems to be no rhyme or reason as to why the disc will not load. I called Oppo and they suggested turning it off for 15 minutes and to try to blow compressed air in there. I did that, but a few days later it started happening again.

Again, it does not fail to load every time, but it does it enough that I think there might be a problem. I wanted to know whether anyone else had this issue...also whether anyone had sent their unit in for repair and their experience with that process (how quick, expedient, etc.).

Thanks so much for the help!

Hi everyone-

Roughly 30-40% of the time, whenever I put in a DVD in my 971, the disc will not load. These are all just normal DVD movies.

When the disc fails to load correctly, I do not get an error message; rather, I start to hear a higher pitched, soft whirring from the player. Then I press eject and after about 10 seconds or so it will eject.

I always make sure that the disc is properly loaded on the tray, etc. There seems to be no rhyme or reason as to why the disc will not load. I called Oppo and they suggested turning it off for 15 minutes and to try to blow compressed air in there. I did that, but a few days later it started happening again.

Again, it does not fail to load every time, but it does it enough that I think there might be a problem. I wanted to know whether anyone else had this issue...also whether anyone had sent their unit in for repair and their experience with that process (how quick, expedient, etc.).

Thanks so much for the help!


I experience the same thing.

My unit is a refurb, is yours?


-BL

I experience the same thing.

My unit is a refurb, is yours?


-BL

Thanks for the reply.

Not sure if it is a refurb or not. My parents were kind enough to get it as a Christmas present last December, if that helps at all. Is there any way to figure out whether it is a refurb?

And I'm still curious as to what is causing my problem and whether or not repair service from Oppo is efficient.

Thanks-

Thanks for the reply.

Not sure if it is a refurb or not. My parents were kind enough to get it as a Christmas present last December, if that helps at all. Is there any way to figure out whether it is a refurb?

And I'm still curious as to what is causing my problem and whether or not repair service from Oppo is efficient.

Thanks-

You mean December 2006? If so, you're still within your 1-year warranty. They'll send you a replacement.

If not, ask them how long to repair. Oppo usually gets excellent comments on their support.

-Bill

Hi everyone-

Roughly 30-40% of the time, whenever I put in a DVD in my 971, the disc will not load. These are all just normal DVD movies.

When the disc fails to load correctly, I do not get an error message; rather, I start to hear a higher pitched, soft whirring from the player. Then I press eject and after about 10 seconds or so it will eject.

I always make sure that the disc is properly loaded on the tray, etc. There seems to be no rhyme or reason as to why the disc will not load. I called Oppo and they suggested turning it off for 15 minutes and to try to blow compressed air in there. I did that, but a few days later it started happening again.

Again, it does not fail to load every time, but it does it enough that I think there might be a problem. I wanted to know whether anyone else had this issue...also whether anyone had sent their unit in for repair and their experience with that process (how quick, expedient, etc.).

Thanks so much for the help!

I have the 971 and mine just started doing something similar today.
If anyone can help me I would appreciate it.

When I load a disc it just waits about 10 seconds and then the tray re-opens.
It does this even if the try is empty. No indication it is loading on the front panel read out.
Anyone know of this problem?
Thanks,

I recently got a 971H; it is connected to Marantz SR5200 using Digital Coaxial Cable; the audio seems to be always 2ch stereo; I tried few different setup options and different media such as DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, MP3 etc. Do I need to use the 5.1 ch analog output to get the surround sound ?

I recently got a 971H; it is connected to Marantz SR5200 using Digital Coaxial Cable; the audio seems to be always 2ch stereo; I tried few different setup options and different media such as DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, MP3 etc. Do I need to use the 5.1 ch analog output to get the surround sound ?

Hi Anthos,

Welcome to the forum. The 5.1 analog output is for DVD Audio discs exclusively. To obtain 5.1 Dolby Digital or DTS output from the coax digital connection to your Marantz Receiver for DVD video discs make sure you set the 971H to RAW in audio out settings. You must have it set to PCM out, which will result in 2ch only.

With that said, your Marantz also needs to be set up to expect a RAW audio signal from the OPPO. Depending on the specific piece of equipment the needed setting for 5.1 DD/DTS is either RAW or Bitstream. The terms mean the same thing.

The jargon just keeps going on. PCM stands for pulse code modulation. Now we have new stuff with an LPCM option , and confusion reigns again. I wonder how many think the "L" in LCPM stands for Losless?

You'll get it,

Joe

I recently got a 971H; it is connected to Marantz SR5200 using Digital Coaxial Cable; the audio seems to be always 2ch stereo; I tried few different setup options and different media such as DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, MP3 etc. Do I need to use the 5.1 ch analog output to get the surround sound ?

Ensure that the DVD player is set to S/PDIF of RAW and that your receiver is looking for a coaxial digital signal.

I recently got a 971H; it is connected to Marantz SR5200 using Digital Coaxial Cable; the audio seems to be always 2ch stereo; I tried few different setup options and different media such as DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, MP3 etc. Do I need to use the 5.1 ch analog output to get the surround sound ?
You need to have the "Digital Output" setting under the "Audio Setup Page" section of the 971H's menu set to "RAW" (the default setting). Once this is done, you will be able to get 5.1 from DVD's. MP3's will still be stereo once you've done this and DVD-Audio will downmix to stereo over the coaxial and optical outputs (you must use the multichannel analog output to get 5.1 from DVD-Audio due mainly to copy protection issues), but when playing a Dolby Digital 5.1 or DTS program on a DVD the Marantz should detect it and decode it properly.

Hello if your project picks up 480P over DVI, shouldn't it be able to recieve 720P and 1080i over DVI as well.

My Oppo only gives me the 480P option, all of the others provide blank screens?????

can some one explain?

Hello if your projector picks up 480P over DVI, shouldn't it be able to recieve 720P and 1080i over DVI as well.

My Oppo only gives me the 480P option, all of the others provide blank screens?????

can some one explain?

Does your display support resolutions higher than 480p?

What is your projector model number?

My oppo doesn't want to eject discs anymore.....
looks like i will have to send it back.

Is the tray ejecting and the disc is not there, or is the tray not ejecting at all?

The disc is still in the player when the tray ejects.

Then it is likely that you have some kind of sticky substances on the inner plastic ring of your discs.

Close the tray.
Press Eject.
Immediately begin tapping the top-middle of the DVD unit above the disc tray. Hopefully the disc will fall out into the tray.

Inspect the disc to ensure that there is nothing sticky or abhesive like on the disc itself. If there is, then you will want to clean the disc and open your unit. You will want to clean the disc above the loader assembly.

I have a number of Verbatim DVD-R disks which the Oppo used to play fine, but now pause, skip, hitch and freeze after playing perfectly for up to an hour or more. I sent an email to Oppo tech support and received a reply to the effect that the Oppo plays better on DVD+R discs. This doesn't help at all with my existing collection, nor does it answer the question as to why this problem started after playing the same discs fine for over a year. This is not a scratched disc issue, since it does it on pristine and newly recorded discs.

The email acknowledged that this is a "known issue." What is the latest wisdon on the best thing to do?

Then it is likely that you have some kind of sticky substances on the inner plastic ring of your discs.

Close the tray.
Press Eject.
Immediately begin tapping the top-middle of the DVD unit above the disc tray. Hopefully the disc will fall out into the tray.

Inspect the disc to ensure that there is nothing sticky or abhesive like on the disc itself. If there is, then you will want to clean the disc and open your unit. You will want to clean the disc above the loader assembly.


hrmm ok i will try that right now.

Well i took off the top of the loader looked at it, nothing sticky.

But i screwed it back on tighter and it seems to be fine again.

Maybe it was loose?

Anyway thanks for the heads up on the quick fix!

I have a number of Verbatim DVD-R disks which the Oppo used to play fine, but now pause, skip, hitch and freeze after playing perfectly for up to an hour or more. I sent an email to Oppo tech support and received a reply to the effect that the Oppo plays better on DVD+R discs. This doesn't help at all with my existing collection, nor does it answer the question as to why this problem started after playing the same discs fine for over a year. This is not a scratched disc issue, since it does it on pristine and newly recorded discs.

The email acknowledged that this is a "known issue." What is the latest wisdon on the best thing to do?

I've used nothing but -R in the past and had no problems. I am switching to +R because I've read convincing arguements that it is a better format.

Do you get the same behavior with commercial discs, or only with burned media? Can you play the burned media on any other system?

Maybe some dust or fluff on the laser? Try blowing compressed air into the slot. Give the unit a good shaking.

-Bill

hmm

Speaking of sticky substances. I've seen instances of when two different kinds of plastic are in contact with each other for some time (rather long) that the contact area becomes "gooey" as if the plastics are welding themselves together.

I've used nothing but -R in the past and had no problems. I am switching to +R because I've read convincing arguements that it is a better format.

Do you get the same behavior with commercial discs, or only with burned media? Can you play the burned media on any other system?

Maybe some dust or fluff on the laser? Try blowing compressed air into the slot. Give the unit a good shaking.

-Bill

The dics play fine on two other dvd players. Just burned discs are affected. The quick fix is to unplug and replug the Oppo. It only lasts until the next disc. There was a discussion about this a couple of months and many pages ago. I was hoping something had been discovered towards a fix.

I have a number of Verbatim DVD-R disks which the Oppo used to play fine, but now pause, skip, hitch and freeze after playing perfectly for up to an hour or more. I sent an email to Oppo tech support and received a reply to the effect that the Oppo plays better on DVD+R discs. This doesn't help at all with my existing collection, nor does it answer the question as to why this problem started after playing the same discs fine for over a year. This is not a scratched disc issue, since it does it on pristine and newly recorded discs.

The email acknowledged that this is a "known issue." What is the latest wisdon on the best thing to do?

I had a similar problem back in January, the 971 started having issues with DVD-DL+Rs. There were some posts earlier about it:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I sent an email to Oppo service about my 971's sudden dislike of DL +R disks. I tried their suggestion, and it worked - mostly. The disks I was having problems with did play, but had a few hiccups. I didn't have to stop and restart them, tho, they played all the way thru. We'll see how long this "fix" lasts. If the 971 starts goofing up again, I'll send it in.


Quote:
Originally Posted by
From: <service@oppodigital.com>
To: "
Sent: Tuesday, January 23, 2007 10:43 PM
Subject: RE: Problem playing DL+R on my 971



Please try the following:

1. Disconnect the OPPO DVD player from the power source for no less than
15 minutes.
2. Gently shake your DVD unit.
3. Reconnect the power.
4. Download and install the latest firmware release.
5. Clean the bottom of your disc with a non-abrasive cloth.
6. Blow a little compressed air into the DVD unit.

Attempt playback again. If you still have errors, then your unit will
need to come back for inspection and repair.

Best Regards,

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


> -------- Original Message --------
> Subject: Problem playing DL+R on my 971
> From: "
> Date: Tue, January 23, 2007 12:10 pm
> To: <service@oppodigital.com>
>
> Hi, I've had the 971 for about a year and have been very happy with it. Up until a few days ago I had no problems playing DL+Rs, all are Verbatim or TDK. Now all of a sudden it is having problems with them. It will play for about ten minutes and start stuttering. The stuttering gets worse until the unit completely hangs. If I unplug it for a few minutes, it will begin OK, and then after ten minutes start stuttering again. I've tried going back to a previous version of the firmware with the same results, then reloading the most recent version, again with the same behavior. I took the cover off and cleaned the laser lenses, and it still acts the same. It seems to play single layer media fine so far. My question is, could this be something that can be fixed with a servicing, or am I now looking for a new DVD player? A player that won't play recordable media is of no use to me. Thanks.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I don't know whether it was the shaking, or the fact that I took the cover off and blew the unit out with some compressed air, but since then, I've had no problems with DL disks, either TDK or Verbatim. I use -R SL disks exclusively (Tayo Yudens) and have no problems playing them. Other than that brief hiccup, my 971 has been trouble free.

Started experiencing random audio dropouts from my 971 during a movie last night. I thought it might be the disk, so I tried a couple of disks I watched last week and there were dropouts as well, where there were none before.

For the past year, I've been connected coaxial digital to my Yamaha 2700. I'm sending RAW, 192 KBPS to it, like I have done from day one. I double-checked that all cables were connected firmly and I tried dropping down to 48 KBPS, but still got the dropouts.

I know the Yamaha is OK because it's processing DD 5.1 raw just fine from my DirecTV HR20 receiver. I've played about 100 DVD's with this set-up without problem prior to this.

Any thoughts on what I might try next would be appreciated! TIA.

/steve

Boy I hate to say this and I hope noone gets offended because I LOVE my Oppo 971 but...I keep reading of some unfortunate people who after using their players for some time they start to exhibit strange behavior. I wonder if this fantastic, but rather inexpensive (cheap) player just doesn't have what it takes for long term playability? Maybe it's so inexpensive because it was built with lower end parts that are starting to wear out??? Just wondering! I have no problems with mine so far but I only watch maybe a few movies a month on it whereas some people are really using theirs much more often.

The 971H has been on the market for over two years now, and I suspect (based on the discussions I've seen in more than one forum) that there are a whole lot of them out in the marketplace. At some point, the law of averages is going to start catching up with some people in the form of hardware problems - in and of itself, that doesn't indicate a flaw on the build quality so much as a reminder of how many 971H's have been sold since December 2004 or so.

I pulled my equipment rack out and changed the S/PDIF cable from the Oppo to the Yamaha, and now everything seems back to normal. The same DVD's are playing with no dropouts. The old cable was in firmly and appeared undamaged. Either it went bad (how does a cable go bad?), or perhaps there was some oxidation over time. It had gold-plated connectors, so I'd be surprised if that was it. Just looking for an explanation that fits the facts! :) At any rate, all seems well... for now. /steve

Boy I hate to say this and I hope noone gets offended because I LOVE my Oppo 971 but...I keep reading of some unfortunate people who after using their players for some time they start to exhibit strange behavior. I wonder if this fantastic, but rather inexpensive (cheap) player just doesn't have what it takes for long term playability? Maybe it's so inexpensive because it was built with lower end parts that are starting to wear out??? Just wondering! I have no problems with mine so far but I only watch maybe a few movies a month on it whereas some people are really using theirs much more often.

Any product will wear down with use. What becomes an issue is how fast this will occur. You have to remember that this product has been out in people's hands for two and a half years, and there will likely be problems with some of these units.

Another problem becomes that this is OPPO's first product. This product will demonstrate some manufacturing growing pains as they try to address issue with the design. Sometimes, you can break things when trying to fix others. Overall, I would probably peg the percentage of units that will have issues as being 3%, which is well below that of most manufacturers.

I will be joining the Oppo 971 club:) and in the best possible way. I just won an Oppo 971 on the Audioholics website. Yeah, having a good week. First I ordered and received my first ever venture into SACD and now I just was notified my Axiom m60's have been shipped after only 7 days when it was supposed to take 6 weeks. Awesome Awesome Awesome :D

fyi - just for fun I changed the resolution setting of my Oppo to 1080, even though my project is 720p native. I was surprised that there was a (albeit marginal) video improvement. Did an a/b comparison to 720p and preferred 1080 in all cases....

not sure I understand why.. but am keeping it on 1080 now..

fyi - just for fun I changed the resolution setting of my Oppo to 1080, even though my project is 720p native. I was surprised that there was a (albeit marginal) video improvement. Did an a/b comparison to 720p and preferred 1080 in all cases....

not sure I understand why.. but am keeping it on 1080 now..

Just for curiosity, how did you do an A/B comparison? Do you have two Oppo's?

im a novice about DVD upscaling , only stated thinking about it because i just got my first LCD HDTV , samsung 4061 1080P . I played some of my DVD though an old 480P sony and they look pretty good , but not wanted to try this upscaling to 1080P , I had never heard of OPPO ( I am a novice ) till yesterday when someone in the samsung thread recommended it. Now i look at Amazon.com ans see an OPPO 970HD for 149 and an OPPO 981 for 229 one goes 1080i the other 1080P, someone said go with the Toshiba xa2 ,, or maybe i should see if Samsung has one ,,, I ask the thread for its educated opinion ,, and advice to a novice ,,, THANKS TO ALL

im a novice about DVD upscaling , only stated thinking about it because i just got my first LCD HDTV , samsung 4061 1080P . I played some of my DVD though an old 480P sony and they look pretty good , but not wanted to try this upscaling to 1080P , I had never heard of OPPO ( I am a novice ) till yesterday when someone in the samsung thread recommended it. Now i look at Amazon.com ans see an OPPO 970HD for 149 and an OPPO 981 for 229 one goes 1080i the other 1080P, someone said go with the Toshiba xa2 ,, or maybe i should see if Samsung has one ,,, I ask the thread for its educated opinion ,, and advice to a novice ,,, THANKS TO ALL

You can see a feature comparison of Oppo models here: http://www.oppodigital.com/dv981hd/dv981hd_comp.html

The Toshiba HD-DVD players have a reputation for good SD-DVD playback.

Samsung SD-DVD players do not get a lot of respect here at AVSForum. I've never had one so I don't know if that is fair.

The Oppos are SD-DVD players. If you want to play HD-DVD or Blu-Ray discs you have to buy something other than Oppo.

-Bill

Are these available anywhere besides ebay? I'm fine with DVI and want a silver player :).

You might see if OPPO still has any b-stock lying around...

You might see if OPPO still has any b-stock lying around...

Went down that route to no avail. Should have looked a few months earlier.

fyi - just for fun I changed the resolution setting of my Oppo to 1080, even though my project is 720p native. I was surprised that there was a (albeit marginal) video improvement. Did an a/b comparison to 720p and preferred 1080 in all cases....

not sure I understand why.. but am keeping it on 1080 now..

What's the connection you're using? What's it connected to? And most importantly, what was the benefit that you actually saw?

I was able to come across a 971H and it is being shipped my way tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing for myself.

My setup: (you'll see why I think the 971 was the right player)
57" Sony Widescreen RPTV (1080i native) KP-57WS510
DVI, Component inputs

I had a similar problem back in January, the 971 started having issues with DVD-DL+Rs. There were some posts earlier about it:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I sent an email to Oppo service about my 971's sudden............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I don't know whether it was the shaking, or the fact that I took the cover off and blew the unit out with some compressed air, but since then, I've had no problems with DL disks, either TDK or Verbatim. I use -R SL disks exclusively (Tayo Yudens) and have no problems playing them. Other than that brief hiccup, my 971 has been trouble free.

I'm glad that fix your Oppo. I have had the same problems for a year or more and was really waiting for a HD-DVD or BlueRay player to shake free from the pack. I can't play 80% of DVD-R's or the recommended +R's (per there tech support) without the unit hanging at about the 1 hour mark. Soooo frustrating. All the disks play fine in 3 other non upconv. players. I use the recommended media, tried unplugging, blowing comp. air etc. etc. and even with a power cycle the disks hang. My setup in my theater needs a DVI/HDMI connected DVD player (unless a major hassel cable swap) so I'm stuck since my other player are older 480p component players. I know you get what you pay for but I think I'll wait and see what this year hold for the HD DVD market and go that way. Does anyone have experience with sending a unit back to Oppo for repair? Just hate to waste $$ for a temp fix since a HD player will be swapped for the Oppo soon.

What's the connection you're using? What's it connected to? And most importantly, what was the benefit that you actually saw?

Well, DVI connection to an Optomo H78 Front Projector - native 720p

The benefit was a noticeable improvement in clarity.

However, I started noticed some 'jittering' that really started to bother me. I think it was the 'i' of my 720p projector in 1080i mode.

So I had to choose between a perceived sharper picture with some jittering, or a smoother picture.

I am now back in 720p mode.

If and when I get a 1080p projector, I will do the same test.

I was able to come across a 971H and it is being shipped my way tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing for myself.

My setup: (you'll see why I think the 971 was the right player)
57" Sony Widescreen RPTV (1080i native) KP-57WS510
DVI, Component inputs
is it new...or used?

is it new...or used?

used, a few are popping up on ebay

OPPO also sells units direct as well for $160.00 through phone orders only.

OPPO also sells units direct as well for $160.00 through phone orders only.

Thats pretty strange. I called them a week or two ago and they said they no longer had any 971H for sale, new or refurbished.

They were selling B-stock (returns/refurbs), which after five months or so may finally be gone.

Thats pretty strange. I called them a week or two ago and they said they no longer had any 971H for sale, new or refurbished.

OPPO sometimes gets returns from Amazon.com and other resellers of used OPDV971H units. When they do, they test them and sell them over the phone. Right now they still have stock of recently returned, refurbished OPDV971H units.

Thought I'd bring this up, but has anyone heard or read what will be the next step for Oppo. Are they working on a HD DVD or Blu-ray player at present?

Are they working on a HD DVD or Blu-ray player at present?

I've heard no rumours of such. There was an Oppo email somewhere here that they concentrate on "mature technologies".

-Bill

That, and OPPO does not want to make a product which will not last several years to come. Currently, there is no format which is winning with a huge margin, so OPPO themselves do not want to produce, and sell, a product that could potentially become someone's expensive paper weight.

Is the DV971H the Oppo model that allows the hack to get 720p/1080i from the player?

Is the DV971H the Oppo model that allows the hack to get 720p/1080i from the player?

No. The DVI port is 480p/720p/1080i out of the box. The component port is limited to 480i.

There is a component upscaling hack for the 970.

-Bill

Hi all.

Sorry but I didn't know where else to post this but here.

I have an Oppo 971H DVD player and I must say I love it, best player I have ever owned / seen. Anyway, noticed the other night that it doesn't seem to want to play DivX anymore. I burn discs as Data Discs in Nero 7, same as I used to (when DivX was working), but when I select the file I want to watch in the Oppo menu screen, it says "Decoding...." then the sound from the file starts playing, but no video, it just stays on the file menu screen, all be it with no text (file names disappear).

Sorry if this has been covered before, but I'm desperate for an answer and don't really have time to search the 262 pages. Oh and yes I have the latest firmware installed.

Thanks guys.

Hi all.

Sorry but I didn't know where else to post this but here.

I have an Oppo 971H DVD player and I must say I love it, best player I have ever owned / seen. Anyway, noticed the other night that it doesn't seem to want to play DivX anymore. I burn discs as Data Discs in Nero 7, same as I used to (when DivX was working), but when I select the file I want to watch in the Oppo menu screen, it says "Decoding...." then the sound from the file starts playing, but no video, it just stays on the file menu screen, all be it with no text (file names disappear).

Sorry if this has been covered before, but I'm desperate for an answer and don't really have time to search the 262 pages. Oh and yes I have the latest firmware installed.

Thanks guys.

What's the resolution of the files? None of the Oppos will play any HD resolution; I think the limit is 720x576.

-Bill

Thanks Bill, you are a lifesaver.

Just looked back through my files and it seems that when it "stopped working" is when I started downloading 960x528 DivX files. Earlier than this point they were 624x352.

Thanks again.

OK, Here is a tough one. I will possibly be moving my Oppo from my current set-up back to my other TV. Problem, HDMI input and no Receiver for the Audio. Is there a work around, or should I sell and buy a DVD player that is HDMI to HDMI? Anyone have this issue and solution possibilities?

Is there no analog stereo input associated with the HDMI input? I've got my old 971H hooked up to dad's HDTV via DVI-to-HDMI and stereo analog audio, and most HDTV's with HDMI inputs have an analog audio input that can be used in conjunction with the HDMI. If there really is no associated analog input, then I would agree that the 971H would not be a good match for that TV.

thanks gonk!

About 2 days after reading about the video dropout problem here I had one. I was watching Coal Miner's Daughter (a brand new disc, first time viewing) and I had a momentary dropout.

I emailed OPPO customer service (who have always been extremely helpful and easy to work with) and once we agreed that (1) my connections were all tight and (2) I was using DVI out to DVI in on my Sony display, they replied as follows:

"Based on our experience with our products, video drop-out errors associated to DVI based devices is due to the cable being defective or not working properly with the HDMI-DVI specifications.

Do you happen to have another cable available? If not, then we can provide you with one if you reply with your shipping information.

Best Regards,"

Needless to say, it's not a huge problem right now. I think I've had two dropouts in two years, and if it's the cables, hopefully I'll get 5 or 6 more years out of this player. That's all I want. My Toshiba SD-4800 was a workhorse -- never one issue in the 7 years I used it. The OPPO blows it away.

When it's time to upgrade, perhaps the dust will have cleared on the HD-DVD/Blu Ray battle. Until then, I plan to use my OPPO until it explodes.

If a new cable/adapter does not fix your error, or you do not have another display to do a secondary confirmation of the error, then you can have OPPO recall the player for inspection and repair. If your DVD player is more than a year old, you will most likely have to pay for shipping (product repair and return shipping will be covered by OPPO), or purchase an extended warranty.

If the dropouts are rare, then I would not bother with a repair, as OPPO will likely not be able to replicate the error.

If a new cable/adapter does not fix your error, or you do not have another display to do a secondary confirmation of the error, then you can have OPPO recall the player for inspection and repair. If your DVD player is more than a year old, you will most likely have to pay for shipping (product repair and return shipping will be covered by OPPO), or purchase an extended warranty.

If the dropouts are rare, then I would not bother with a repair, as OPPO will likely not be able to replicate the error.


Sounds good.

Looking to get rid of unneeded 971H player. Original box and DVI cable (cable never used). Pm if interested.

Looking to get rid of unneeded 971H player. Original box and DVI cable (cable never used). Pm if interested.
Thanks, but I'll pass.

Are they giving away the HD-A2s yet? It sounds like Blu-Ray is winning the HD DVD format war. ;)

Noticed something weird recently. There are a couple of DVDs which have always had major combing through the oppo. Just thought it was a bad transfer. However, I recently played them through my Tosh HD-E1 (euro A2 equivalent) and the combing is gone. It might be that the Tosh has a better de-interlacer or it might be that it's picked up a different flag...? Anyway, is there anyway to change the flag settings on the oppo to test this out? (I would play the dvds on the tosh, but for some reason I only get sound when playing HD material). Thanks.

Noticed something weird recently. There are a couple of DVDs which have always had major combing through the oppo. Just thought it was a bad transfer. However, I recently played them through my Tosh HD-E1 (euro A2 equivalent) and the combing is gone. It might be that the Tosh has a better de-interlacer or it might be that it's picked up a different flag...? Anyway, is there anyway to change the flag settings on the oppo to test this out? (I would play the dvds on the tosh, but for some reason I only get sound when playing HD material). Thanks.

Are these PAL discs? Do you have the player set to VIDEO2?

I believe the 971 uses adaptive deinterlacing, not flag-based.

-Bill

Are these PAL discs? Do you have the player set to VIDEO2?

I believe the 971 uses adaptive deinterlacing, not flag-based.

-Bill
Thanks. They are PAL and it is set to video 2. Maybe it's the adaptive de-interlacing that's not picking something up. Shame.

Does anyone know what the 971H will do with OGG video files? A friend of mine has an Oppo 970 and was able to rename the files as .avi's and play them on his 970. Can that work with the 971H or will it choke on the .ogg audio?

Thanks!

Does anyone know what the 971H will do with OGG video files? A friend of mine has an Oppo 970 and was able to rename the files as .avi's and play them on his 970. Can that work with the 971H or will it choke on the .ogg audio?

Thanks!

I can confirm that the 971 recognizes and plays .ogg files.

-Bill

I can confirm that the 971 recognizes and plays .ogg files.

-Bill

Correction: I see you are asking about video files. I have only tested ogg audio.

-Bill

I've played OGM fine with the .OGM extension on the OPDV971H.

I have an Oppo 971 hooked up to a Sony SXRD RPTV, and was watching the film Bridge to Terabithia, and noticed horrible smearing or ghosting in many scenes, it was nearly unwatchable it was so bad.

I have my truelife settings set to off, but when I put the TrueLife setting back to on, all of the smearing was gone, and the picture looked perfect. I had the truelife setting to off because it seemed to really exaggerate Macroblocking in other films I've watched.

My question is, there a better way than having to toggle the true life setting depending on the film, or is this just a drawback to using this Oppo player. The last firmware update I did was about 2 months ago.

Turning TrueLife to Off will cause DNR to turn to Medium. For this reason, in some films, you may see ghosting or smearing artifacts, depending on the type of movement on screen.

There is no automatic way of getting a good picture with the OPDV971H in this case. You will likely just want to turn TrueLife On and Off depending on the film.

Turning TrueLife to Off will cause DNR to turn to Medium. For this reason, in some films, you may see ghosting or smearing artifacts, depending on the type of movement on screen.

There is no automatic way of getting a good picture with the OPDV971H in this case. You will likely just want to turn TrueLife On and Off depending on the film.


Thanks for the response Neuromancer, I guess I'll just have to live with this.

Even though the Oppo puts a great picture and it was a solid value when I bought it, I'll probably never buy another one or recommend it to others anymore because of issues like this. I just find it unacceptable that I have to toggle between settings to get an image ghosting so bad it is nearly unwatchable or having huge blocks of pixels in the background. When the Oppo is working properly, it puts out a great picture, but there are other good upconverting DVD players.

I have a Sony DVP-NS75H in my office hooked up to a 40" lcd, and I have none of the smearing or macroblocking issues like I do with the Oppo, and it was half the price and puts out a wonderful picture.

If I was in the market to spend around $200-$250 on a SD DVD player, I would also look at the HD DVD players from Toshiba. I have one, and they also do a wonderful job on upconversion of standard SD DVD's.

About 2 days after reading about the video dropout problem here I had one. I was watching Coal Miner's Daughter (a brand new disc, first time viewing) and I had a momentary dropout.

I emailed OPPO customer service (who have always been extremely helpful and easy to work with) and once we agreed that (1) my connections were all tight and (2) I was using DVI out to DVI in on my Sony display, they replied as follows:

"Based on our experience with our products, video drop-out errors associated to DVI based devices is due to the cable being defective or not working properly with the HDMI-DVI specifications.

Do you happen to have another cable available? If not, then we can provide you with one if you reply with your shipping information.

Best Regards,"



My Oppo started doing pauses with my commercial, Blockbuster rentals. I actually had another DVI to HDMI cable lying around (I have every kind of cable lying around) and so far (3 disks) the problem is gone. I have not yet checked to see if my DVD-R's will play better.

I am using the Oppo 971H (current firmware) with an InFocus IN72, a 854 x 480 native resolution DLP projector. I currently have the Oppo DVI output set to 480P.

Problems:

- Player will often not recognize DVD data discs (DVD-R) unless a DVD-Video disc has been loaded prior. This is a known problem acknowledged by Oppo.

- Playback image on DIVX and MPEG-2 will sometimes become midly jerky, another known problem, which Oppo addresses with the following advice: "This error can be due to the audio/video synchronization scheme which was added to the 11-0830 firmware. If you are having issues with DiVX media with this firmware, you will need to revert to the previous 10-0720 firmware instead."

Questions:

- Is there a consensus that Oppo has abandoned firmware upgrades for this product?

- Am I using the best DVI output mode (currently 480P) for my IN72 projector?

- Is there another product on the market (including possibly the Oppo 970HD or 981HD) as versatile and media-compatible as the 971H, which is a natural upgrade path? I do not want to sacrifice picture quality, but I have grown tired of the recurring mild jerkiness in video playback.

Thanks

- Player will often not recognize DVD data discs (DVD-R) unless a DVD-Video disc has been loaded prior. This is a known problem acknowledged by Oppo.
Try switching to DVD+R/RW media. I know the Sanyo loader utilized by OPPO does not happily playback DVD-R/RW media on a consistent basis. Personally I have no issues with the media I throw at it, but I know plenty of users who can't even get DVD-R/RW media recognized at all.

- Is there a consensus that Oppo has abandoned firmware upgrades for this product?
For all intents and purposes, the OPDV971H is dead. The team which worked on the firmware for the OPDV971H migrated to the DV-981HD product. I would be surprised if we see another firmware release for this product.

- Am I using the best DVI output mode (currently 480P) for my IN72 projector?
Some users, particularly the InFocus 4805 users prefer 720p.
- Is there another product on the market (including possibly the Oppo 970HD or 981HD) as versatile and media-compatible as the 971H, which is a natural upgrade path? I do not want to sacrifice picture quality, but I have grown tired of the recurring mild jerkiness in video playback.

Pretty much all OPPO designs share the same decoder and loader assembly. For this reason, it is highly unlikely that one of their products will produce better results.

Oppo Support responded similarly, saying "For your display (the IN72), the OPDV971H and the DV-981HD have the same performance. This is due to the same Faroudja chipset being utilized in these products. the DV-970HD is likely to exaggerate errors due to it using a slightly lower quality MTK solution."

I also inquired about HR DIVX playback capabilities in the newer Oppo players, but Oppo responded: " Because the OPDV971, DV-970HD, and the DV-981HD share the same MTK decoder, they all have the same DivX decoding limitations of 720x480 pixels."

Oppo has removed our beloved 971 from their web site!
I guess that means no more updates.

It's still hiding on the support page - found it last night. Take a look (http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h_support.html).

Yeah, I found it. Too bad though that the 971 isn't very important to Oppo any more. I understand technology waits for no one. But they did promise one more firmware update and now it looks like they will never deliver. Oh well, I guess mine plays good enough. :(

I have an interesting problem with my Oppo 971. I just purchased a new television (Vizio VU42LF 1080p LCD), and when I set the output of the Oppo to 720p, I am unable to adjust color, tint, or sharpness on the tv. The adjustment bars come up, but any change does nothing at all to the picture. I have called Vizio, and they told me that they had never heard of such a problem, and their engineers said it is probably some kind of handshaking issue between the two. Does this sound right to you folks? 1080i works fine as far as the adjustments go, but the picture is not so great (lots of jaggies). 480p is adjustable as well. I'm still suspicious of the tv, but I'd like to have some ammo if I am going to fight for a repair/replacement. So I guess I'd like to know if any of you have ever heard or have seen such an issue? Could it possibly be because of the DVI to HDMI thing? Hope someone can help me out. I've also posted this on the Vizio VU42LF forum with no responses yet.

Is there no analog stereo input associated with the HDMI input? I've got my old 971H hooked up to dad's HDTV via DVI-to-HDMI and stereo analog audio, and most HDTV's with HDMI inputs have an analog audio input that can be used in conjunction with the HDMI. If there really is no associated analog input, then I would agree that the 971H would not be a good match for that TV.

Back in May I asked a question about a DVI + Optical to HDMI converter and got the following response. I do not know enough about the color space output by the Oppo to make and educated decision about the following. Would I be able to run this following cable from the Oppo to Component HD input and then run RCA audio to get this to work? Attached is the link to the cable:

DVI to Componet Cable (http://sewelldirect.com/DVI-to-Component-Adapter-Cable-6ft.asp)

That cable works with DVI-I (meaning a DVI connection that provides analog video as well as digital), and it breaks out that analog signal into a component connection. The 971H provides a DVI-D connection only (meaning a DVI connection that provides just digital video). As a result, that cable would not work with the 971H.

That cable works with DVI-I (meaning a DVI connection that provides analog video as well as digital), and it breaks out that analog signal into a component connection. The 971H provides a DVI-D connection only (meaning a DVI connection that provides just digital video). As a result, that cable would not work with the 971H.

Darn. I thought I had an epiphany, but I was afraid of that. What about DVI Video Adaptor (http://sewelldirect.com/dvivideoadapter.asp) ?

By the way, thanks for the quick response!

That adapter's relying on the same DVI-I analog signal as the cable - still no go with the 971H. To get from DVI-D (the output of the 971H) to component would require a device that included some form of video DAC to convert the digital signal to analog. There were a few such black boxes cropping up a few years ago (mainly to satisfy the market of HD CRT front projection owners), but they were a little expensive and hard to find.

That adapter's relying on the same DVI-I analog signal as the cable - still no go with the 971H. To get from DVI-D (the output of the 971H) to component would require a device that included some form of video DAC to convert the digital signal to analog. There were a few such black boxes cropping up a few years ago (mainly to satisfy the market of HD CRT front projection owners), but they were a little expensive and hard to find.

Yea, I fall back to the May discussion. It is cheaper to buy a new DVD player, even and Oppo, than to buy a converter.

Thanks anyway. :D

Just a quick thumbs up for Oppo.

A few weeks ago, by 971H started showing a "tray error" message, and wouldn't load any discs. The only way I could get it to work was to open the tray, turn off the player, put a disc in, and then turn it on.

I emailed support, and that night I got an email with a link to FedEx. I followed the link, printed off a pre-paid ground shipping label, packed it up, and dropped the box off at a FedEx location. 11 days later, I had my player back. They fixed the tray error, and upgraded it to the latest firmware (I think I was a version behind).

I don't even know what kind of warranty they have, but my 971h is almost 2 years old, and I didn't expect that kind of service. I don't know that it mattered that I had purchased it directly from them.

I updated the firmware and am using the playing to play some region 2 discs, after not using the player for a VERY long time.

I felt the image was soft on some Amazon UK import dvds of the Original Bionic Woman 1975-76 (region 2 discs).

So played with the sharpness settings, truelife I think I its called, and the saturation and really could not find an adjustment I was happy with.

I did find the low sharpness setting and increasing the brightness 2 notches helped, beyond that I played around for a while and then my eyes got tired it was late.

I read the posts I am sure when I first bought this player, but now with 133 pages, can someone be kind enough to tell me the they think the best settings should be.

It had flagged the discs as Video1 btw for type. I also noticed the image to be VERY soft in some shots, almost cloudy, made me wonder if it was the dvd transfer or the player.

I updated the firmware and am using the playing to play some region 2 discs, after not using the player for a VERY long time.

I felt the image was soft on some Amazon UK import dvds of the Original Bionic Woman 1975-76 (region 2 discs).

So played with the sharpness settings, truelife I think I its called, and the saturation and really could not find an adjustment I was happy with.

I did find the low sharpness setting and increasing the brightness 2 notches helped, beyond that I played around for a while and then my eyes got tired it was late.

I read the posts I am sure when I first bought this player, but now with 133 pages, can someone be kind enough to tell me the they think the best settings should be.

It had flagged the discs as Video1 btw for type. I also noticed the image to be VERY soft in some shots, almost cloudy, made me wonder if it was the dvd transfer or the player.

VIDEO2 is recommended for PAL; you have to set this, it doesn't switch automatically. I use it for both PAL and NTSC.

The usual advice is to set the player video settings to 0 or off and use a calibration disc to adjust the display. However these is a bug such that noise reduction is not actually off unless TruLife is on. So, set TruLife=on, noise reduction=off.

What sort of display are you using? Using DVI, right? And you've tried different output resolutions?

You've got the system type set to PAL for a PAL display?

-Bill

You've got the system type set to PAL for a PAL display?


Woops, thought you were in Australia, not Atlanta.

-Bill

I also noticed the image to be VERY soft in some shots, almost cloudy, made me wonder if it was the dvd transfer or the player. Well, the simple way to tell if the problem is with the DVD transfer or the player, is to load a known high-quality transfer. If it looks OK, then its the DVD transfer.

As Bill pointed out, for Region 2 movies (PAL) you do need to set the video mode to VIDEO2. Also make sure you have matched the player's resolution to the native resoultion of your display.

Gary

Hi, Im new to the forum and the OPPO 971. I just updated my firmware to version 11-0830. Can anyone tell me what settings to use? Im hooked up with an HDMI cable to my Vizio 37" LCD TV. Thank you.

Generally speaking, just leave all the video settings at Default (Off/None/0).

Of course, you should calibrate the TV for best results... at the very least, setting Brightness, Contrast, and Saturation correctly.

Gary

For what its worth anyone contemplating one of the latest Philips LCD televisions it's a fantastic match to the Oppo 971H. I've been using my player via DVI to a Panny 47wx53 CRT RPTV for the last two years with some minor macroblocking. I recently purchased the 47" 7432 Philips model with ambilight connected via DVI-HDMI. The results are fantastic. I have absolutely no MB enhance. The picture is absolutely stunning with this match. I've been contemplating making the jump to Blu or HD DVD but these great results are going to make me hold off a little longer.

My Oppo is hooked up to a Denon 487 surround sound system with small speakers. Any ideas for audio settings? Thanks again.

I am assuming you have the player hooked up using either the coax or optical out to the receiver???

If so, then set the SPDIF output to RAW. Pg. 30 of the manual. All the other audio settings are only for using the analog audio outs. Either way, read the manual. You can download a copy from my web site.

For what its worth anyone contemplating one of the latest Philips LCD televisions it's a fantastic match to the Oppo 971H. I've been using my player via DVI to a Panny 47wx53 CRT RPTV for the last two years with some minor macroblocking. I recently purchased the 47" 7432 Philips model with ambilight connected via DVI-HDMI. The results are fantastic. I have absolutely no MB enhance. The picture is absolutely stunning with this match. I've been contemplating making the jump to Blu or HD DVD but these great results are going to make me hold off a little longer. Nice to know.

Gary

I've been having problems with my 971H where it often doesn't find the subtitles associated with DIVX/XVID files. I always make sure that the names of the subtitle and avi files are the same and that the files are in the same directory. Is there some trick to making this work? I'm confused as to why it happens only sometimes. Right now, for example, I've got a DVD-R with 4 XVIDs and their associated .srt files (each pair in their own directory), and the OPPO doesn't pick up any of them. I've got the most recent firmware.

Thanks.

I accidentally downloaded firmware for the DV-970HD and flashed it to my OPDV971H. I know... boneheaded mistake :o

I have been unable to re-flash back to the OPDV971H. Tech support said that I should insert a normal DVD movie and then switch discs to a 971H firmware. That didn't work. The DVD player ejected the 971H firmware disc immediately upon pressing play (not ~8 seconds).

Anybody have any success recovering from this stupid mistake?

I've been having problems with my 971H where it often doesn't find the subtitles associated with DIVX/XVID files.

Ensure that the subtitles are encoded as ANSI and not Unicode.

I accidentally downloaded firmware for the DV-970HD and flashed it to my OPDV971H. I know... boneheaded mistake :o

1. Connect a composite connection from the DVD unit to your television. Hopefully you will see the OPPO logo. If not, then we will have to do this blindly.
2. Download and burn the 11-0830 Firmware (http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h_firmware_0830.html).
3. Insert a DVD. Wait until the DVD has been fully loaded (the front LCD will show numbers counting up).
4. Eject the DVD.
5. Insert the 11-0830 Firmware CD. Close the tray.
6. Wait 15 seconds then press Play on the remote control (if you can see a picture on your television, you should see the firmware installation page).
7. After 7 seconds the tray will Eject. Remove the firmware CD.
8. After 2 minutes the tray should recall and your unit should be working again.

If the tray does not recall after 2 minutes, your firmware CD could be burned incorrectly, and in this case, you will want to delete your current ISO, and download a fresh copy and start over again.

Thanks Neuro. I tried your approach, but I get no video display from composite, component, or DVI connections. The front display on the player has a bunch of nonsensical characters (e.g. partial numbers). My 971H kicks out the firmware DVD about 2 seconds after I insert it; I hear it spin down, then it ejects it right after that. I let it sit there for 30 minutes and it never draws the DVD tray back in.

I opened her up and couldn't see any removable PROM chips like the BIOS in a PC. I guess that means it is toast. Sounds like my trusty old 971H is garbage can bound. :(

Don't use a DVD. In this process you have to use a CD-R disc.

Make sure you insert a DVD that you know has worked in the past. Let it load for 30 seconds then Eject it. Insert the firmware CD and wait 15 seconds. Press Play.

You may also want to try using Select instead of Play. This works in some situations.

Ensure that the subtitles are encoded as ANSI and not Unicode.

Thanks Neuromancer. I just checked and they are encoded as ANSI/UNIX. Is there anything else I should look out for?

I'm glad that fix your Oppo. I have had the same problems for a year or more and was really waiting for a HD-DVD or BlueRay player to shake free from the pack. I can't play 80% of DVD-R's or the recommended +R's (per there tech support) without the unit hanging at about the 1 hour mark. Soooo frustrating. All the disks play fine in 3 other non upconv. players. I use the recommended media, tried unplugging, blowing comp. air etc. etc. and even with a power cycle the disks hang. My setup in my theater needs a DVI/HDMI connected DVD player (unless a major hassel cable swap) so I'm stuck since my other player are older 480p component players. I know you get what you pay for but I think I'll wait and see what this year hold for the HD DVD market and go that way. Does anyone have experience with sending a unit back to Oppo for repair? Just hate to waste $$ for a temp fix since a HD player will be swapped for the Oppo soon.

Same problem with mine. It started hanging on some commercial discs too. I gave up and bought a Sony for $90 that plays everything fine.

Hello folks. I have owned an Oppo 971 for a couple of years now. Recently noticed that movies in HD from my Direct Tv HD satellite box look way better than movies on my Oppo. The movies look smooth and brighter. Sorry I don't know how else to explain how good it looks. Last night I was watching a movie in HD from the satellite box and played the same movie on the Oppo. I then switched back and forth from the Oppo and the satellite box. IMO the image was better from the HD satellite box. I have my Oppo connected to my Denon 2307ci with dvi to hdmi and my HD satellite receiver using component cable (the cheap ones that come with the receiver) to the receiver as well. The cables are less than 6ft long. All the switching being done with the receiver out to a Panasonic AE-900 projector. I have played with the settings on the Oppo. I currently have the settings at 0/ccs off/truelife off and have tried all the resolutions. 1080i looks best in my setup but not as good as the HD box. Has anyone tested their equipment this way, playing the same movie at the same time from their Oppo and another HD source? Any suggestions to make my Oppo look better or just as good as the HD satellite box?

Any suggestions to make my Oppo look better or just as good as the HD satellite box?

Is that possible? The Oppo is an SD-DVD player; your satellite is giving you an HD signal. Given a reasonable level of quality, the HD signal will look better than the SD signal, right?

SD = 720x480 pixels (NTSC)

HD = 1280 x 720 or 1920 x 1080 pixels.

-Bill

Is that possible? The Oppo is an SD-DVD player; your satellite is giving you an HD signal. Given a reasonable level of quality, the HD signal will look better than the SD signal, right?

SD = 720x480 pixels (NTSC)

HD = 1280 x 720 or 1920 x 1080 pixels.

-Bill

I agree! Especially with the potential size of the projected image can upconverted SD look not as good as HD. I use a 61" DLP and the difference between my 971 and HD over cable is not as drastic but you can still tell the difference. I still think the 971 is one of the best upconverting DVD players there is though.

Any suggestions to make my Oppo look better or just as good as the HD satellite box?Simply put, upconverted SD does not equal HD. Period. Expecting an HD picture? Use an HD source.

Thanks Neuromancer. I just checked and they are encoded as ANSI/UNIX. Is there anything else I should look out for?

Unfortunately I have no more advise. As long as the files and subtitles are named the same and the subtitles are in ANSI, they should play.

If there are multiple periods (.) try removing them except for the extension period.

Simply put, upconverted SD does not equal HD. Period. Expecting an HD picture? Use an HD source.

Thank you all. I am beginning to understand the differences in the resolutions with all of your explanations.

My misunderstanding was that if I was using this upconverting dvd player and using DVI or HDMI connection vs component from a satellite box, that it would be superior to the satellite box. Thanks to you guys, this makes me want to go out Friday after Thanksgiving to shop for an HD or Blue Ray player.:) Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Hi folks,

I own Oppo DV971H for years. Yesterday night, I found the remote control mapping seemed to be in a great mess. The "up" arrow had become the toggle switch between Auto, PAL or NTSC. The subtitle button had become the language selection. the "DVI" button is now "Enter" button. And every other button is not what it is labelled.

Is there any solution to this matter? does flashing new firmware helps? but I do hesitate to reflash firmware because I need my player to be region free.

Thanks in advanced.

The 971H shipped with two different remotes at different times - an all-white remote and a white remote with a black face (the latter became the standard for subsequent players). The two remotes used different codes. It sounds like your player is using the wrong remote codes. This page (http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h_firmware_0830.html) may be able to help you get the 971H back to using the right code set.

The 971H shipped with two different remotes at different times - an all-white remote and a white remote with a black face (the latter became the standard for subsequent players). The two remotes used different codes. It sounds like your player is using the wrong remote codes. This page (http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h_firmware_0830.html) may be able to help you get the 971H back to using the right code set.
Hi gonk, thanks for the tips. I have solved the problem. I just pressed the STOP button on the player for 5 seconds and the player registered the remote control as new. It's kinda strange the problem like this can occur.

Hi there,
I recently burned the updated firmware for the 970 so that I can run the patch and be able to upconvert my store bought DVD's to 720P. I used Nero and burned the .iso file as a data file. When I played it on the DVD player, it read "UN DISC" and would not read it. Am I doing something wrong?

Hi there,
I recently burned the updated firmware for the 970 so that I can run the patch and be able to upconvert my store bought DVD's to 720P. I used Nero and burned the .iso file as a data file. When I played it on the DVD player, it read "UN DISC" and would not read it. Am I doing something wrong?

Try the 970 thread.

-Bill

Hi there,
I recently burned the updated firmware for the 970 so that I can run the patch and be able to upconvert my store bought DVD's to 720P. I used Nero and burned the .iso file as a data file. When I played it on the DVD player, it read "UN DISC" and would not read it. Am I doing something wrong?
As Bill says, this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=832356) will likely be more useful for you.

You say that you burned the .iso file "as a data file" - if you do have a patched .iso file, you will need to burn it as an image, not as a data file. That is likely to be your problem.

Thanks a bunch guys! I'll try burning it again this week!

If you still have issues burning the firmware, you can contact OPPO to send you one free of charge.

Does anyone know if the 971H will output audio on both digital coax and analog at the same time? I want to use the Zone 2 feature on my Onkyo 605, when playing CD's, but the 605 won't output a digital signal to zone 2 using the line level outputs. Thanks.

Does anyone know if the 971H will output audio on both digital coax and analog at the same time? I want to use the Zone 2 feature on my Onkyo 605, when playing CD's, but the 605 won't output a digital signal to zone 2 using the line level outputs. Thanks.

Yes, all outputs are active simultaneously.

-Bill

Yes, all outputs are active simultaneously.

-Bill

Thanks. I didn't want to crawl behind the rack if I didn't have to.

Just a quick thumbs up for Oppo.

A few weeks ago, by 971H started showing a "tray error" message, and wouldn't load any discs. The only way I could get it to work was to open the tray, turn off the player, put a disc in, and then turn it on.

I emailed support, and that night I got an email with a link to FedEx. I followed the link, printed off a pre-paid ground shipping label, packed it up, and dropped the box off at a FedEx location. 11 days later, I had my player back. They fixed the tray error, and upgraded it to the latest firmware (I think I was a version behind).

I don't even know what kind of warranty they have, but my 971h is almost 2 years old, and I didn't expect that kind of service. I don't know that it mattered that I had purchased it directly from them.
Wow, mine has the same issue but I wrote them and they said it would be $49 + shipping for service. I'll pass and just avoid buying another Oppo (I mean it dies after just 2 years, while my 9-year-old original DVD player, a Panasonic, still works almost perfectly? Always stick with more reliable manufacturers is my motto from now on.)

Hi everyone-

Tried to put in "The Bourne Ultimatum" last night in my 971. It spins the disc, then gives me the "no disc" error message.

It happens every time I put in that specific disc. I tried a number of other DVDs and they all load fine, but this one in particular simply will not work. The bonus features disc works fine.

Any ideas on the "no disc" error message when there actually is a disc in there? And what does it have against this movie???

Hi everyone-

Tried to put in "The Bourne Ultimatum" last night in my 971. It spins the disc, then gives me the "no disc" error message.

It happens every time I put in that specific disc. I tried a number of other DVDs and they all load fine, but this one in particular simply will not work. The bonus features disc works fine.

Any ideas on the "no disc" error message when there actually is a disc in there? And what does it have against this movie???Have you tried this disc in a different player?

Wow, mine has the same issue but I wrote them and they said it would be $49 + shipping for service.

Tray Errors can be something as simple as a cable being lose. You can always open the player and make sure that all the cables leading to and from the loader are properly secured.

OPPO is now charging for repair services of products which are over a year old. Previously they would take back any player and repair it. Usually at no original shipping cost.

Hi everyone-

Tried to put in "The Bourne Ultimatum" last night in my 971. It spins the disc, then gives me the "no disc" error message.

It happens every time I put in that specific disc. I tried a number of other DVDs and they all load fine, but this one in particular simply will not work. The bonus features disc works fine.

Any ideas on the "no disc" error message when there actually is a disc in there? And what does it have against this movie???

Try washing the disk. It's happened to me a few times on my 970 but the culprit was a fingerprint, not the player.

Have you tried this disc in a different player?

I did try it in 2 different players and it worked fine (XBox 360, cheap Toshiba DVD player). I'm not sure why the Oppo would "no disc" a disc that's OK in other players.

How would I wash the disc?

I use liquid kitchen detergent and warm water then blot it dry with a microfiber towel.

Perhaps a bit of dust or lint is interferring with the laser optics. A blast of air from an duster can might dislodge it.

One more thing to try, is to unplug the player for a minute or two. Sometimes this firmware reset can help.

Gary

Don't know whether this could help, but I got a new DVD for Christmas (can't remember title now) and when I tried to play it for the first time the Oppo did similar: churn, then "no disc" error. I had Oppo set for region free; I switched it to region 1 (to match disc) and error went away.

I did try leaving the player unplugged for a few minutes- that did not seem to help. I will try the blast of air a little later this afternoon to see if that works. However, I'm not sure it's the player that is the problem, as my other DVDs seem to work just fine...

...that said, the "region" setting intrigues me and I will search around in the settings to see if that will help. Again, my other DVDs work great. This is not a foreign DVD, bought in any other region other than the USA.

I also heard "boiling" a disc might help. Any experience with that?

Or maybe the player just didn't like the movie. :)

I also heard "boiling" a disc might help. Any experience with that? I wouldn't try that - it could warp the disk or otherwise shorten its life.

Just in case you didn't know, the region setting isn't in the regular menu. Press SETUP 9210 and press 1 to change the setting to region 1.

Gary

Update....

I tried switching the Region code (it was already on "1") both to zero and back to "1" with no good results. Still gives me the "no disc" error.

I'll try to clean the disc today- do I submerge the disc in the detergent/warm water solution, scrub it, or what?

Upon inspection of the disc, I did notice a small scratch in the center. This could be the culprit, but then I don't understand why it would load on other players.

Oppo suggested I send the disc to them for inspection...I may do that if the cleaning does not work.

Update....

I tried switching the Region code (it was already on "1") both to zero and back to "1" with no good results. Still gives me the "no disc" error.

I'll try to clean the disc today- do I submerge the disc in the detergent/warm water solution, scrub it, or what?

Upon inspection of the disc, I did notice a small scratch in the center. This could be the culprit, but then I don't understand why it would load on other players.

Oppo suggested I send the disc to them for inspection...I may do that if the cleaning does not work.

For scratched discs I've had good luck with a "Xinix" motorized repair product. It's about $30 (built very cheap) and uses liquid abraisive and rubber buffers. I saw it once at Best Buy but I bought mine from cyberguys.com.

If is disc is simply smudged I wipe it with a handkerchief. For a severe case I would try dishsoap and a cloth and paper towel.

Do not wipe a disc with a circular motion around the center. Polish it radially, toward and away from the center. DVDs can recover from radial scratches, but not from circular ones.

-Bill

Well, the cleaning didn't work, the region code didn't work...might as well send the disc to Oppo and see if they can play it on their players. It works so well on my other DVD players that now I'm just really curious as to what's up.

Thanks anyway for the help, everyone.

If it is the only disc which has that problem, then I would send it in to OPPO to see if their players do not have the same error.

I had the same issue with the same player on the original Apollo 13 DVD release. It worked at first then after several firmware updates it just would not play. I eventually gave up on it. Then I purchased the 10th anniversary directors edition (or something like that, you know the one with the Imax version also) and the new disk (both versions) play just fine! Stupid technology!

Ive burned a ton of mp3's onto a dvd-r using Nero. When I put the disc in, it plays it fine and if I put the player on mp3 shuffle, it will play in a random order. However, two problems I have and am wondering if there's any way around them. When I put the dics in and hit play, it always plays the very first song on the disc, it doesnt randomly select it. Second, I cannot skip a song that is currently playing and go to the next random song. I can manually select a song and hit play, but cannot hit the >> button to skip and go to the next song. Is there anything that I can do or is this everyone else's experience? thanks in advance.

Elizabeth: The Golden Age

Anyone else watched this using a 971H yet? I have DVI to HDMI directly into a 1140HD Pioneer plasma and have never had any issues at all but this movie looked terrible dark scenes were unwatchable...real blocky. I also played the movie on the Toshiba upconvert that is built into the TV in my bedroom 37hlv67 and didn't notive it at all. Just wondering if anyone else has seen this problem?

Elizabeth: The Golden Age

Anyone else watched this using a 971H yet? I have DVI to HDMI directly into a 1140HD Pioneer plasma and have never had any issues at all but this movie looked terrible dark scenes were unwatchable...real blocky. I also played the movie on the Toshiba upconvert that is built into the TV in my bedroom 37hlv67 and didn't notive it at all. Just wondering if anyone else has seen this problem?


We ended up watching it on the PS3 instead of the 971H. It was not that great there either. There must have been a really poor transfer to DVD.

Which would be a shame, since the cinematography in that movie is top notch.

I just picked up a used HD-A2 we'll see how it compares to the Oppo.

Ive burned a ton of mp3's onto a dvd-r using Nero. When I put the disc in, it plays it fine and if I put the player on mp3 shuffle, it will play in a random order. However, two problems I have and am wondering if there's any way around them. When I put the dics in and hit play, it always plays the very first song on the disc, it doesnt randomly select it. Second, I cannot skip a song that is currently playing and go to the next random song. I can manually select a song and hit play, but cannot hit the >> button to skip and go to the next song. Is there anything that I can do or is this everyone else's experience? thanks in advance.

I would really appreciate any input. thanks again.

I would really appreciate any input. thanks again.I have a feeling no one has responded because no one else on this board uses their Oppo to listen to mp3s burned to DVDs.

I do have a suggestion for the first problem, however.

Record a sound file which is 1 second of silence, and make sure that's the first song on the disc. You won't notice it when it gets played first everytime you hit shuffle.

The random order is not random. For instance, if you start a disc and it plays back 1, 10, 5, and 9 it will always play back those tracks again, even if you choose another track on the list.

Thanks VTTOM, thats a great idea. However, is everyone having the same issue with mp3's and the >> button? Like I said, I cant skip forward when a song is playing. I either have to hit stop then manually select another song, or I have to hit > 5 times for ff 32x and listen to the "chipmunks on meth" until the song is over to get to the next shuffled song.

If the song is "Track 13" or higher then you are hitting one of the annoying aspects of the older MTK solutions which prohibits the use of the Skip buttons.

Oppo doesn't have a brick and motar store, though you're welcome to drop by the main office if you like. The machines go for $200 + S/H from amazon.

I have had my Oppo for a while and was using it through a rear projection Sony using component video and stereo audio. I recently upgraded to a Samsung LNT5265 1080p LCD TV and Onkyo SR805 receiver with KEF 2005.2 5.1 surround speakers.

I am using a DVI to HDMI cable from the Oppo to the receiver for video and was wondering what is the "best" way to hookup audio from the Oppo to the receiver? Should I use the SPDIF or TOSlink hookup, the stereo outs, the 5.1 outs, etc. to the receiver? I think the SPDIF/TOSlink only works for DTS and Dolby digital so I am thinking I should hook those up and the 5.1 output. Any suggestions??

You do not need the 5.1 analog outs. Either of the other two digital outs will do everything you need. I use the SPDIF because my toslink on my receiver is already in use from my cable box. Either one will do the same thing.

I have had my Oppo for a while and was using it through a rear projection Sony using component video and stereo audio. I recently upgraded to a Samsung LNT5265 1080p LCD TV and Onkyo SR805 receiver with KEF 2005.2 5.1 surround speakers.

I am using a DVI to HDMI cable from the Oppo to the receiver for video and was wondering what is the "best" way to hookup audio from the Oppo to the receiver? Should I use the SPDIF or TOSlink hookup, the stereo outs, the 5.1 outs, etc. to the receiver? I think the SPDIF/TOSlink only works for DTS and Dolby digital so I am thinking I should hook those up and the 5.1 output. Any suggestions??You definitely want to use SPDIF (it doesn't really matter if you use coax or optical) and set the player to "bitstream" or "raw" (I forget the actual name of the setting.. basically, don't use "PCM"). This will send the raw digital audio stream off the disc directly to your receiver. I beleive the 5.1 analog outputs are for DVD-Audio playback. The L/R stereo outputs are just that, stereo (not surround).

You definitely want to use SPDIF (it doesn't really matter if you use coax or optical) and set the player to "bitstream" or "raw" (I forget the actual name of the setting.. basically, don't use "PCM"). This will send the raw digital audio stream off the disc directly to your receiver. I beleive the 5.1 analog outputs are for DVD-Audio playback. The L/R stereo outputs are just that, stereo (not surround).

Whew! That makes it a lot easier. Thanks. I'll get that hooked up tonight and check it out. I'm dying to watch the Bladerunner Ultimate edition upconverted on the LCD TV in full surround.

I was a relatively early 971 adopter, and I use it all the time- but mostly for playing DVDs. I sometimes play ReplayTV recordings on it, but it insists on stretching them as if they were anamorphic, which is pretty annoying. :-(

Anyway, I've tried to watch other files from time to time, and I'm constantly using an audio codec or a filename that it doesn't like. Is there a list somewhere of what exactly it likes? I was going to make an "Oppo" preset for HandBrake to save me future hassles, but I didn't want to have to try everything if I could find a good list somewhere.

The player will only recognize the extensions .AVI, .MPEG, .MPG, .MP3, .OGG, .OGM, .JPG and .JPEG.

Your files must also be DivX, XviD, MPEG-1/2, or OGM for video. Audio can only be OGG, MP3, and WAM.

Thanks, that's about what I thought- how about bitrate limits?

Wasn't there supposed to be a fix at some point for the DVI border issue?

Wasn't there supposed to be a fix at some point for the DVI border issue?

Underscanning is a part of the MTK hardware. This will not be fixed.

Thanks, that's about what I thought- how about bitrate limits?

For audio you just can't be lossless.

For video you can't exceed 8000kbps.

Man it's hard to believe this thread is still going after all these years.

Man it's hard to believe this thread is still going after all these years. Legendary first player from a legendary new company... Long live OPPO!

Gary

Does anyone have any experience of the OPPO DV-971DT that is available on the European oppo shop? They say it is "a DVD player with integrated DVB-T receiver, same machine as the DV971h but without DVI interface".

Does the DV-971H have a receiver in it?

Does anyone know if the tuner is any good in the OPPO DV-971DT?

I am thinking of making my first oppo purchase and thought I'd dip my toe in the water with one of the 971s for my parents (which I'd have the pleasure of setting up and occasionally viewing as well, of course!). At 120 euros it seems pretty good value if it is not out-of-date in quality terms. The DV-971H is more expensive but my parents wouldn't need a DVI interface (or SACD) but they would be able to use the tuner.

I'm not sure whether either of these players would prove a false economy or whether they produce good quality output on a small-scale?

Can anyone guide me in this?

Thanks

Does anyone have any experience of the OPPO DV-971DT that is available on the European oppo shop? They say it is "a DVD player with integrated DVB-T receiver, same machine as the DV971h but without DVI interface".

Does the DV-971H have a receiver in it?

Does anyone know if the tuner is any good in the OPPO DV-971DT?

I am thinking of making my first oppo purchase and thought I'd dip my toe in the water with one of the 971s for my parents (which I'd have the pleasure of setting up and occasionally viewing as well, of course!). At 120 euros it seems pretty good value if it is not out-of-date in quality terms. The DV-971H is more expensive but my parents wouldn't need a DVI interface (or SACD) but they would be able to use the tuner.

I'm not sure whether either of these players would prove a false economy or whether they produce good quality output on a small-scale? The DV-971H does not have a receiver in it. The DVI video board in the DV-971H houses the Faroudja video processing chip, whereas the component output only supports 480i (no progressive output). Without DVI, the player would be crippled and completely lame.

However, the DV-971DT claims to have a progressive output, so maybe it has been redesigned. I don't know anything about the DT version.

Gary

I believe the DV-971HDT with tuners were MTK 480p only. No Faroudja or upscaling.

The DV-971H does not have a receiver in it. The DVI video board in the DV-971H houses the Faroudja video processing chip, whereas the component output only supports 480i (no progressive output). Without DVI, the player would be crippled and completely lame.

However, the DV-971DT claims to have a progressive output, so maybe it has been redesigned. I don't know anything about the DT version.

Gary

Ah, So there's maybe a progressive output stage in there that produces decent pq after all? Anyone else know the answer to this question?

There is a scart output on the beast so I guess the vp chip might be on the board for that. It would be interesting to know how it performs. After all, OPPO seem to have a good record in choosing their components.

My parents do not have an HD screen yet, anyway and there are plenty of standard def TVs looking for the best input they can get.

A decent freeview box/DVD player wouldn't be a bad idea for a lot of older folks over here in the UK who are wondering what to do about the coming analogue switch-off.

It might even be a bedroom solution for the poverty-stricken movie lover.

Am I booting the proverbial out of this?

I believe the DV-971HDT with tuners were MTK 480p only. No Faroudja or upscaling.

So, am I right in saying that the DV-971DT is not simply a DV-971H without a certain type of digital output but a DV-971H without any digital output or any upconverting ability?

I am, as you have probably realised, not quite up to speed on the technical details but thanks for your prompt and frank reply. It's a great forum, this. Not least, thanks to both of your contributions. :)

Would it be overstepping the mark to say that the description on the OPPO site is a little misleading? Or am I just failing to understand the aforementioned details?

On a different tack, I wish OPPO would make a standalone upconverter that sat between your screen and a multi-source system. Indeed, why not a display with ABT upconversion built-in? :D

I won't be holding my breath for either of those, tho'. ;)

Thanks, again.

I'm trying to upgrade firmware from MVer 05.00.01.07 Batch F-0302, to Batch 11-0830 that was released Sept 21, 2006.

I've done this before, using Nero to burn an image file. I made the CD and it has the 935.BIN file on it. However, when I try to upgrade, the player tries twice to copy the file and then says "CHECKSUM FAILED". At this point, nothing else happens. I can eject the disk and the player remains fully operational under the old firmware.

I was wondering, should I select "Finalize CD" when I burn it? I did not choose that option when I burned it.

Yes, the disc has to be finalized.

Ah, So there's maybe a progressive output stage in there that produces decent pq after all? Anyone else know the answer to this question? Neuromancer pointed out that it has the MTK (Mediatek) 480p chip, so yes, it has a decent progressive output stage, and the same excellent navigation and layer-change performance as the DV-971H.
There is a scart output on the beast so I guess the vp chip might be on the board for that. It would be interesting to know how it performs. After all, OPPO seem to have a good record in choosing their components. Yes, I'd be confident that it would work well.
So, am I right in saying that the DV-971DT is not simply a DV-971H without a certain type of digital output but a DV-971H without any digital output or any upconverting ability? Yes. It should have pretty good de-interlacing ability but no upscaling and no digital output.
Would it be overstepping the mark to say that the description on the OPPO site is a little misleading? Or am I just failing to understand the aforementioned details? I didn't notice anything misleading in the specs. I'm not sure what you might be refering to.

Gary

Thanks for the reply and sorry to take so long in responding. I have a good idea what this player can do now and may well get one after all.

My 971 will not open the disc tray - its coming up to 2 years old so out of warranty. I've emailed Oppo support but I would imagine with shipping and rep[air costs would be 50% of a new player......so any tips on what I should check?

Cheers,
Mark

My 971 will not open the disc tray I assume you have tried the eject button on the front panel too. If the unit powers up and displays an image, it could be that a disk is stuck inside. You could try shaking or thumping the player a little to dislodge anything that might be stuck. Also, try pulling the power plug for a minute. If that doesn't work, you could always open up the player and look for obvious mechanical problems with the tray, disk, cables, or connectors. Finally, if the player is alive, you could try reflashing the firmware. If the player is altogether dead, it may be time to repair or replace.

Gary

My 971 will not open the disc tray - its coming up to 2 years old so out of warranty. I've emailed Oppo support but I would imagine with shipping and rep[air costs would be 50% of a new player......so any tips on what I should check?

1. Disconnect the DVD player’s power cord from the power source for no less than 15 minutes.
2. Ensure that the tray is not sticking to the front of the tray opening by running a small flat object along the entire edge of the tray.
3. Gently shake your DVD unit.
4. Reconnect the power cord.
5. Press Eject. If the tray does not Eject, make any note of any mechanical noises.
6. Press Eject and press in the tray.
7. Press Eject again.

Beyond this the player would need to be repaired. Out of warranty repairs on the OPDV971H are $49.00 plus shipping to OPPO. OPPO covers the parts, labor, and return shipping.

GSB/Neuromancer

Just tried all that and no joy. There was no disc in unit and was no mechanical noises indicating that draw was attempting to open. Just an indication on unit and screen of "Open".

But then I gave it a more sharper bump - and now the tray is working. Wondering if maybe a loose wire or something. Will see how things go and if occurs again I'll open it up.

Thanks,
Mark

If it was a loose wire shaking the player should have resolved the issue. But if it works now, it may still work for a while or crap out again in short order.

If it was a loose wire shaking the player should have resolved the issue. But if it works now, it may still work for a while or crap out again in short order.

You and Gary are amazing.

This is a very old thread. Your detailed responses at this point are a wonder. Long live oppo and all the people like you guys that make AVS what it is.

Had forgotten that the 971 was the first unit. Still works in my rack. Soon to be replaced by a 980 with an Integra DTC-980. DSD v. PCM the question.

Joe

I gave my OPDV971H to my parents. Still alive and kicking after nearly three years of ownership.

You and Gary are amazing.

This is a very old thread. Your detailed responses at this point are a wonder. Long live oppo and all the people like you guys that make AVS what it is.

Had forgotten that the 971 was the first unit. Still works in my rack. Soon to be replaced by a 980 with an Integra DTC-980. DSD v. PCM the question.

JoeWell, thank you Joe! And long live OPPO! I juggle their excellent players in my sleep! You'll love the 980.

Gary

Does the 971 suffer from any green push like the 981?

Also, how bad are the macroblocking problems on SXRDs? (A3000)

Does the 971 suffer from any green push like the 981?

Also, how bad are the macroblocking problems on SXRDs? (A3000)

The 971 and 981 have very similar video characteristics. Both look more green to me than the 983.

I don't know about SXRD. Displays that are sensitive to MB are going to risk it with Faroudja-chip displays like the 971/981.

-Bill

For SXRD you will not want to use anything Faroudja unless you can accept macroblocking as a feature.

Green Push effects the DV-981HD because this was defaulted at YCbCr, which caused some issues with certain displays. With the RGB setting most green push reports have disappeared.

Thanks.

Oppo says 971 is on par with others

"The OPDV971H uses the same Faroudja chipset as the DV-981HD. For this reason, the performance is identical"

But of course now we have the 983 :).

I've "taken the plunge" and acquired the truly remarkable 983H. As such, I'd like to make available a well-cared for 971H with all original packaging, cabling, etc. to an Oppo devotee with a need for a bedroom/backup unit. Please PM for a reasonable price. Apologies in advance for posting here, as opposed to the classifieds, as I would first hope to place this unit with a member of the Oppo cognoscenti who would truly appreciate this legacy player(a player that has served me so very well) prior to making it available to the masses.

Thanks also to Paul, Neuromancer, Gary, et al. for the stream of informative and helpful advice throughout the life of this thread. Cheers.

I've changed my mind and instead of a 980 I will go for the gusto and get a 983. Kal Rubinson of Stereophile reported that he preferred PCM over DSD for SACD on the 980.

And I just have to have the player that is first at receiving a 100% rating from Secrets. Way to go oppo!!!

Will be interesting to compare SD upconversion on the 983 vs. the PS3. With the 971 I concluded it was a draw.

Now if my Integra DTC-9.8 would arrive... In the meantime I'll go read the 983 thread.

Thanks again guys, :)

Joe

I've "taken the plunge" and acquired the truly remarkable 983H. As such, I'd like to make available a well-cared for 971H with all original packaging, cabling, etc. to an Oppo devotee with a need for a bedroom/backup unit. Please PM for a reasonable price. Apologies in advance for posting here, as opposed to the classifieds, as I would first hope to place this unit with a member of the Oppo cognoscenti who would truly appreciate this legacy player(a player that has served me so very well) prior to making it available to the masses.

Thanks also to Paul, Neuromancer, Gary, et al. for the stream of informative and helpful advice throughout the life of this thread. Cheers. Cheers indeed, to a highly successful player and to everyone on this thread who helped OPPO to make it successful. But the biggest thanks go to OPPO for their excellent products, unmatched customer service and astoundingly good response to our feedback!

To those who are considering the 983... You'll love it!

Gary

Gary,

Any idea when they'll be back in stock? My 971 is still chugging away hooked up to my GW II, but I've ordered a Samsung LN52A650 and I want a 983 to use with it. I saw the 650 running and the blacks are, to my eyes, equal to a really good plasma. If I understand everything I've read about the new OPPO unit, then the macroblocking issue associated with the 971 will not be a problem with the 983. Is that correct?

-Toonces

I should have ordered sooner :(

Gary,

Any idea when they'll be back in stock? My 971 is still chugging away hooked up to my GW II, but I've ordered a Samsung LN52A650 and I want a 983 to use with it. I saw the 650 running and the blacks are, to my eyes, equal to a really good plasma. If I understand everything I've read about the new OPPO unit, then the macroblocking issue associated with the 971 will not be a problem with the 983. Is that correct?

-TooncesThat's right, no chance of macroblock-enhance with the 983. They are flying off the shelf faster than OPPO can build them. Send them an email to get on their waiting list. They'll inform you when the next shipment is due.

All the best.

Gary

Thanks Gary!

I am on the list.

-Toonces

Post on of three so I can pose a question...sorry

Post two of three so I can pose a question...sorry

Post three of three so I can pose a question...sorry

Here it is...if you wanted to know
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13990604#post13990604

Here it is...if you wanted to know
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13990604#post13990604

Where does the Oppo 971 fit into the plan?

-Bill

Here it is...if you wanted to know
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13990604#post13990604

Didn't want to know and don't care. Why didn't you clutter up that thread with your bs post instead of this one.:mad:

Didn't want to know and don't care. Why didn't you clutter up that thread with your bs post instead of this one.:mad:

Does not the "Haze" part explain. :)

Joe

And onto a more related point.

I really, really should have ordered a 983 when they were available. My Integra DTC-9.8 pre-pro finally arrived the other day.

Had been using the 971 for the past 2.5 years with a Gefen 3x1 switch out to a BenQ 7700 pj. Great pq and no problems. In fact it was the oppo that was the resolution to a couple of HDCP issues. Always knew that the 971 was non HDCP complaint.

The HDMI / HDCP police seem to have their act together these days.

Gefen switch: HDMI 1.1
BenQ 7700: HDMI 1.1
Integra 9.8: HDMI 1.3

Result of the 1.3 version: the 971 is not supported.

So until I have a 983 in the rack, will have to depend on the slightly less capable upconverting PS3.

Truth is the sad day the beloved, inexpensive, 971 comes out of the rack is delayed. My PS3 (1 month past warranty and US $600) is not due back from SONY until later this week. Hey they are nice: only $150 to fix. Strange the problem showed up immediately after a new fw version. Just have to run the DVI to HDMI cable direct from the 971 during the wait.

Anchor bay, SACD, DVD-A, 100% on Secrets. I'll be patient.

What will oppo do with their first BD player? The AV world awaits!!

Long live oppo.

Joe

Result of the 1.3 version: the 971 is not supported.

Is it really not working? If the player does not use HDCP the switches and display should not require it. That's the way it is supposed to work, although I wouldn;t be shocked to hear otherwise.

-Bill

Is it really not working? If the player does not use HDCP the switches and display should not require it. That's the way it is supposed to work, although I wouldn;t be shocked to hear otherwise.

-Bill

Hi Bill,

Yes, Not working.

It is not the source device that determines. If the input requires the "HDCP Handshake" over HDMI and does not receive it there is no signal.

Joe

Hi Bill,

Yes, Not working.

It is not the source device that determines. If the input requires the "HDCP Handshake" over HDMI and does not receive it there is no signal.

Joe

That's disappointing. I've been telling people otherwise; that if the source does not have HDCP the display cannot require it.

This page: http://www.digital-cp.com/faqs has this suggestive bit:

Q: Is it required to use HDCP when playing standard DVDs that are protected with CSS over an HDMI interface? Does the requirement change if the signal is up-converted to HD format?

A: The Source device invokes HDCP on the downstream interface when the Upstream Content Protection Flag is set. To say that it is required for DVD or any other content is outside the purview of HDCP.


I had hoped pre-HDCP DVI players would always have a loophole.

-Bill

My 971 works fine with my HDMI 1.3 receiver (onkyo 705). The onkyo manual says all connected components must be hdcp compliant but I haven't had any problems.

Stephen

If the source components include HDCP, then everything downstream also needs to include HDCP. If the source doesn't include HDCP, it doesn't matter what happens downstream. Of course, since HDMI requires HDCP, it's hard to find sources that lack HDCP.

If the source components include HDCP, then everything downstream also needs to include HDCP. If the source doesn't include HDCP, it doesn't matter what happens downstream. Of course, since HDMI requires HDCP, it's hard to find sources that lack HDCP.


My 971 works fine with my new Samsung LN52A650 using a DVI to HDMI cable. My very, very old set-top cable box, however, does not. The monitor puts up an HDCP error message when I try to use the same cable and the same HDMI input on the TV.

-Toonces

Can someone please post some calibration setting for this player? I have never ever tweaked any of the setting. I really would appreciate it.

Can someone please post some calibration setting for this player? I have never ever tweaked any of the setting. I really would appreciate it.

The usual advice is leave the player settings as is and calibrate the display.

-Bill

Can someone please post some calibration setting for this player? I have never ever tweaked any of the setting. I really would appreciate it.

There's a link to a settings guide in the very first post on this thread.

All this time I have had the setting on Video 1 and not Video 2. Since video 2 is for DVI will this give me a better picture?

All this time I have had the setting on Video 1 and not Video 2. Since video 2 is for DVI will this give me a better picture?

It matters only for PAL playback, but I leave it on Video 2.

-Bill

I am looking for a dvd source for an older Panasonic PT-L6510U projector.
add w w w to projectorcentral.com/Panasonic-PT-L6510U.htm for the specs Im not alowed to post links yet
Its a 4200 lumen monster but an older model with only component and DVI inputs to choose from and predates HDCP as far as I can tell. The Native resolution is XGA but it will buy me a few months while 1080p prices drop. But what to drive it with. An older Oppo HD971 with 720p over the DVI output or a hacked 970 through the components? With an XGA display does upconverting even help me much ( I try to watch things in Wide Screens whenever I have the option?). SHould I just go with a standard 480p machine?

I was reading on another forum that you can change the cadence of this player from 1:1 to 2:2 and that doing so will give a much better picture. Has anyone experimented with this? Where in the settings can this be changed?

My 971 works fine with my HDMI 1.3 receiver (onkyo 705). The onkyo manual says all connected components must be hdcp compliant but I haven't had any problems.


Same here with the Onkyo 606. No problem at all going through the DVI to HDMI converter.

I am looking for a dvd source for an older Panasonic PT-L6510U projector.
add w w w to projectorcentral.com/Panasonic-PT-L6510U.htm for the specs Im not alowed to post links yet
Its a 4200 lumen monster but an older model with only component and DVI inputs to choose from and predates HDCP as far as I can tell. The Native resolution is XGA but it will buy me a few months while 1080p prices drop. But what to drive it with. An older Oppo HD971 with 720p over the DVI output or a hacked 970 through the components? With an XGA display does upconverting even help me much ( I try to watch things in Wide Screens whenever I have the option?). SHould I just go with a standard 480p machine?

I don't know much about projectors, and I did look at the specs of the one you have listed here. It appears to me to be a 720p projector? I use the Oppo 971 on a Samsung HLN617W DLP that is over four years old and the upconversion on this Oppo is great! I use DVI! so if you can even find one go for it. I think you will be very pleased.

I was reading on another forum that you can change the cadence of this player from 1:1 to 2:2 and that doing so will give a much better picture. Has anyone experimented with this? Where in the settings can this be changed?

Not exactly sure what you mean here... but... anything to improve on an already great picture is worth hearing about.

I'm using the 971H on my pretty new Samsung LCD (Fry's replaced my DLP with a slightly smaller LCD rather than fix the light tunnel), and the Oppo still gets the job done. A friend loaned me his Blu-Ray/HD-DVD combo player for a while, and it was nice, but the sucker didn't play DIVX or XVID...

I don't really see a reason to get the 983 at this point...unless I'm missing something. (should also note that switching to the LCD has all but eliminated any lip sync troubles I had).

Rock on Oppo...rock on.

Well I'm a tad embarrassed.

As I reported a week or so ago my 971 would not work over DVI > HDMI with my new Integra 9.8. Had a thought, don't have the latest FW (not sure I ever did an update).

So a few clicks later and the use of Nero I updated to FW v. 11-0830. What, a 5 minute process? Oppo sure makes it easy.

With fingers crossed I hook up an HDMI cable. Lo and behold back in business!

My power hungry, 204W to 380W PS3 will not be playing with SD DVD from now on.

Now can I please have a 983?

Cheers,

Joe

Good to hear that you have resolved your DVI switching errors through your Integra 9.8.

Thanks,

Just knew you would comment. Gee 3+ year old thread and your still on top of everything. Amazing.

I don't think the issue that I resolved via a FW update was ever talked about on this thread. This HDCP/DRM stuff over HDMI is, well we all know.....

Now for the best part. Probably at the same time I was doing the FW upgrade to my 971 oppo sent me an email. They have a few 983's available. That was yesterday.

Opened the message today and with rapidity I'm not known for, but fearing I would miss the opportunity, I clicked through as fast as I could.

End result: A 983 is on it's way. Did resist the extra charge for overnighting. I need a few nights with the 971 to separate. The 971 will finally give the kids a great picture up in their playroom, probably should stop calling it that, they're 14 & 15 now.

Will be fun to compare the Anchor Bay chip in the 983 to the Reon in the Integra 9.8. Neuromancer, any guess who will win that battle? PM me if not appropriate to comment here.

One cable out: best SD DVD image, Redbook CD, SACD, DVD Audio etc. , life is good. Well except for the pain at the pump.

Joe

I have this player hooked up via the component outputs and while I'm watching a DivX disc my TV say's that it's only coming through at 480i. Is this the highet output I can get with my DivX discs using component? The discs look like garbage in 480i.

The 971H's component output is limited to 480i, yes. The scaling and deinterlacing is all handled by the Faroudja chip, which is only connected to the DVI output.

I have a Dish network Vip622 and need the code to control the Oppo from the Dish remote. Anyone know what it is?

Also, my Oppo remote died at the weekend so contacted them and the deal is $5 for a replacement which is basically the shipping cost. Awesome service, no gouging.

Try "1525" or "1224".

Also, my Oppo remote died at the weekend so contacted them and the deal is $5 for a replacement which is basically the shipping cost. Awesome service, no gouging. Amazing, yes.

Gary

Quite so. A BDP-83 will reside in my rack for this kind of experience.

Joe

Try "1525" or "1224".

Thanks but no dice. I'm assuming you set this up as AUX though, right?

If there is no dedicated DVD button, then you will be using AUX. There are no OPPO codes, but some remotes can be programmed to the described numbers.

HI there!

I have a big problem! I tried different firmwares, but now I have a problem with the picture quality.
In some scenes the picture seems to jump up and down and to the side a little bit, but it is not always.
I also noticed little white dots in the picture, that are not permanent, but only visible if I use the dvd player.

Do you have any idea what this can be?

Try changing the resolution to a progressive resolution (480p and 720p).

Sparkles (white dots) are usually caused by a bad cable. Try replacing your DVI cable with another one if you have one available.

Nothing enligtening here, but I just bought a used 971 on ebay. i have a small samsung lcd with DVI input and thought this might work well with it. i do own region 2 pal dvds so that was another reason. i am waiting for DVI cable to see if can notice any change in quality with DVI and upconverting. but admit i am a noob about upcoverting. strictly have been into region free players and happy to get my pal dvd to play.
thanks for all great info.

Nothing enligtening here, but I just bought a used 971 on ebay. i have a small samsung lcd with DVI input and thought this might work well with it. i do own region 2 pal dvds so that was another reason. i am waiting for DVI cable to see if can notice any change in quality with DVI and upconverting. but admit i am a noob about upcoverting. strictly have been into region free players and happy to get my pal dvd to play.
thanks for all great info. Welcome to the club. Don't forget to check that you have the latest firmware and set the player to region 0 (see the first post).

Gary

Yes thanks GSB I did that , again thanks for the info. plays my pals great. not sure what the upgrade did but figured you want to be at the most current level. waiting for my DVI cable from monoprice.
bob

I would say 'sorry for resurrecting an old thread' but apparently this one never died!

I bought a used OPPO 971h off ebay and it works great except for one 'weird' issue with the eject button... The eject button will not open the disc tray. I have to use the eject button on the remote. Once the tray is open I can use the eject button to close the tray.

And when a disc is playing the eject button seems to function as 'stop' and then 'play'... does that make sense? I hit it once and the disc will stop then I hit it again and it will resume playing. Seemed odd to me.

I upgraded to the latest firmware on Oppo's site I don't remember the version # off the top of my head...

thanks

I would say 'sorry for resurrecting an old thread' but apparently this one never died!

I bought a used OPPO 971h off ebay and it works great except for one 'weird' issue with the eject button... The eject button will not open the disc tray. I have to use the eject button on the remote. Once the tray is open I can use the eject button to close the tray.

And when a disc is playing the eject button seems to function as 'stop' and then 'play'... does that make sense? I hit it once and the disc will stop then I hit it again and it will resume playing. Seemed odd to me.

I upgraded to the latest firmware on Oppo's site I don't remember the version # off the top of my head...

thanksThe eject button on the front panel will not open the disc tray if the player is OFF, but it should open the tray if the player is ON.

The EJECT button functioning as STOP and PLAY does not sound normal, unless you did not allow enough time for the disc to spin down and eject. Pressing EJECT a second time, will cause the disc to load again before the tray opens.

Gary

I agree I did not find it normal either. At first I thought flashing the firmware might take care of it but it didn't. Even after I first power on and have not yet loaded a disc, the eject button does nothing. I tried again last night and waited a good half minute before trying to open the tray. Fortunately the remote works fine... I mostly wondered if a) someone had experienced this before and b) how do i fix it!

thanks for the response...

I own one of these also and have never had that problem...though I haven't tried to use the actual eject button in a while. I use the remote. Why not open the case and check to see if the eject button is mechanical in nature. In other words, does it just push on another small button that is soldered onto a circuit board of some kind? If so, is it pushing on it correctly? What happens if you try and push the button from inside the case thereby bypassing the outside eject button? Just a thought.