Do both the players output 720p through component?

thanks in advance

I just received the Oppo 970 for my birthday and I am a happy man! I didn't fully realize how much my Samsung HD-841 sucked, particularly audio wise. Been playing DVD's, DVD-A's and SACD's for the past couple hours and it's like night and day!

That being said I was wondering if any of the Oppo experts on this thread can recommend the proper settings for audio for my system. I am using the 6ch. analog outputs as well as Toslink to my Yamaha RX-V3200 receiver. I am using the HDMI directly into my Sony 50" as my receiver doesn't support HDMI. I am somewhat confused about some of the Oppo menu settings.

I have noticed that SACD's sound alittle thin with my Yamaha set to 6.1 input. My Sub seems to be at a lower volume with SACD's. Inversely, for DVD, DVD-A with DD5.1 and DTS my center channel is not as loud as the other speakers and the sub is thumping.

I read somewhere that adjusting some settings could knock down the playback resolution from the player. I have been playing with the audio settings and don't really know what I am doing. I don't want to limit the sound quality. Would greatly appreciate someone pointing me to the proper settings.

Thanks

Do both the players output 720p through component?

thanks in advance

If the material is not CSS-encrypted, then you can do 720p and 1080i through the component outputs.

If you don't mind installing hacked firmrware, then you can also download and install a hacked firmware which removes HDCP compliance, which will allow for the upconversion of all material to 720p and 1080i through the component outputs.

I just received the Oppo 970 for my birthday and I am a happy man! I didn't fully realize how much my Samsung HD-841 sucked, particularly audio wise. Been playing DVD's, DVD-A's and SACD's for the past couple hours and it's like night and day!

That being said I was wondering if any of the Oppo experts on this thread can recommend the proper settings for audio for my system. I am using the 6ch. analog outputs as well as Toslink to my Yamaha RX-V3200 receiver. I am using the HDMI directly into my Sony 50" as my receiver doesn't support HDMI. I am somewhat confused about some of the Oppo menu settings.

I have noticed that SACD's sound alittle thin with my Yamaha set to 6.1 input. My Sub seems to be at a lower volume with SACD's. Inversely, for DVD, DVD-A with DD5.1 and DTS my center channel is not as loud as the other speakers and the sub is thumping.

I read somewhere that adjusting some settings could knock down the playback resolution from the player. I have been playing with the audio settings and don't really know what I am doing. I don't want to limit the sound quality. Would greatly appreciate someone pointing me to the proper settings.

Thanks
You should use DD and DTS decoding in the receiver via digital connection. The receiver should be calibrated with testones and RS meter.The only setting should be relevant here, is that the "SPDIF" should be set to "RAW" in the Oppo.[pg 30 in the manual]
For analog MC connection:[pg 28 in the manual]
set speakers to 5.1 mode in the "Down Mix" option
Set speakers accordingly "large" or small" depending if you wan't Oppo to perform bass managment.
You should also perform calibration via testones and an RS meter just like you had done with the receiver.

Ensure that you are using a ISO burning rom, and not using a standard Data CD burning rom.

In most burning programs, you will want to "Burn as Image", or "Burn Image." I would recommend the Burn At Once (www.burnatonce.com), a freeware burning program.

Cool thanks for that Burn At Once, it made my life so much easier.
Upgraded the player without any problems, just had to reset my settings.

I called Oppo yesterday, and they reported that the new firmware should fix the lockup problem that was occurring on certain discs during playback. In my case, lockup was occurring without playback. If it continues to happen, Oppo mentioned the unit could be replaced under warranty.
Which discs are those? I've never had any lock up so far.

You should use DD and DTS decoding in the receiver via digital connection. The receiver should be calibrated with testones and RS meter.The only setting should be relevant here, is that the "SPDIF" should be set to "RAW" in the Oppo.[pg 30 in the manual]
For analog MC connection:[pg 28 in the manual]
set speakers to 5.1 mode in the "Down Mix" option
Set speakers accordingly "large" or small" depending if you wan't Oppo to perform bass managment.
You should also perform calibration via testones and an RS meter just like you had done with the receiver.

Done, Thanks!

I also turned off HDMI audio and changed a setting to 192 from 48. What does this actually effect? DVD-A and SACD?

Going to call Oppo on Monday and go through the set up with them.

Man, What a difference between my Samsung and this DVD player. Not huge video wise but the audio quality is amazing.

*Taking back the video quality comment*

I put in Peter Gabriel's "Still Growing Up" DVD and the picture is much better on the Oppo. Vastly improved I must say for this DVD.

It's sad that I paid the same amount for the Samsung HD841 two years ago and have been subjected to poor audio and video performance without even really realizing it. :( :mad: :(

I don't have the heart to even put the Samsung shitbox on Ebay as I had originally planned to do. I think I'll give it to someone at work who doesn't have a DVD player.

Has there been an updated version of the modified firmware? The last one I saw was based on 0613.

Please pardon my somewhat strange 970HD questions... I'm ready to buy, but I'm going out of town and want to make sure it either gets delivered before I leave, or after I get back, not while I'm gone.

1) Where (what state) does the Oppo 970HD ship from?

2) Does Oppo ship the same day you place the order? (assuming you order early AM)

Please pardon my somewhat strange 970HD questions... I'm ready to buy, but I'm going out of town and want to make sure it either gets delivered before I leave, or after I get back, not while I'm gone.

1) Where (what state) does the Oppo 970HD ship from?

2) Does Oppo ship the same day you place the order? (assuming you order early AM)

They are located in Northern California and shipped the same day in my case. Actually about 2 hours after I ordered in the am.

The package had to be signed for.

They are located in Northern California and shipped the same day in my case. Actually about 2 hours after I ordered in the am.

The package had to be signed for.
What carrier do they ship with?

Has there been an updated version of the modified firmware? The last one I saw was based on 0613.

I dont know if it was updated but the one on yahoo is "0613-respin3x" or something like that with last mod 8/9/2006. Not the 613MMOD iso anymore??? I have not tried either so i dont know if there is a difference if any.... I pass my Video/Audio via the HDMI port on my 970.... so I have no need for this....

*Taking back the video quality comment*

I .....Samsung HD841 ....... I think I'll give it to someone at work who doesn't have a DVD player.
Don't give it to someone you like.

I lived with my 841 for 18 months. Found out after twelve that the best picture was at 480i or 480p(never checked those resolutions when I first got the 841). Turned out I had a color space problem which I couldn't control at 1080i but could at 480p. The Oppo is great. I don't even check the HD-DVD and BD threads anymore.

The new firmware has the same problem for me that I had with the beta. HDMI out to a Crystalio II, and optical out from the CII to a Yamaha YSP-1: with the audio settings set as suggested in the firmware release notes, my YSP-1 is not reporting Dolby Digital content being received, and I hear no sound or only background sounds. Again, interested if anyone else with a CII tries the new firmware. For me its back to the original firmware.

FWIW, I upgraded to the 3A-0916 firmware last night (and followed the firmware release notes' recommended settings for HDMI connected to an A/V receiver), and I did not experience any regression like this going HDMI to my iScan VP30 and coax S/PDIF from the VP30 to my old DD5.1 receiver. I haven't noticed any problems with the firmware upgrade so far.

-- Peter

What carrier do they ship with?

OPPO uses FedEx Ground service as their Standard shipping.

OPPO also has several online retailers dotted accross the country, including ProjectorPeople.com (Florida) and SurfAudio.com (Southern California).

FWIW, I upgraded to the 3A-0916 firmware last night (and followed the firmware release notes' recommended settings for HDMI connected to an A/V receiver), and I did not experience any regression like this going HDMI to my iScan VP30 and coax S/PDIF from the VP30 to my old DD5.1 receiver.
Thanks Peter. Still hoping someone else with a CII will report their outcome with the new firmware.

OPPO uses FedEx Ground service as their Standard shipping.

OPPO also has several online retailers dotted accross the country, including ProjectorPeople.com (Florida) and SurfAudio.com (Southern California).
Ok, thanks.

Which discs are those? I've never had any lock up so far.
I don't recall if the rep listed them over the phone, but a lock-up fix for certain DVD-Audio discs was announced here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8320241&&#post8320241), and two discs are mentioned in the firmware release notes for 3A-0916:

Improved DVD-Audio Disc Compatibility

This version resolved compatibility issue when playing certain DVD-Audio discs, such as Remain in Light by TalkingHeads (UK version) and Greendale by Neil Young & Crazy Horse.

The new firmware has the same problem for me that I had with the beta. HDMI out to a Crystalio II, and optical out from the CII to a Yamaha YSP-1: with the audio settings set as suggested in the firmware release notes, my YSP-1 is not reporting Dolby Digital content being received, and I hear no sound or only background sounds.
FWIW, using audio test signals, I only get L&R front and SW (missing Center and L&R surround) sounds.

Is your DownMix set to Left/Right, and the HDMI is set to PCM?

Is your DownMix set to Left/Right, and the HDMI is set to PCM?
If you're asking me, no, settings were 5.1/Large/Large/Large/On and Raw/Auto.

If the material is not CSS-encrypted, then you can do 720p and 1080i through the component outputs.

If you don't mind installing hacked firmrware, then you can also download and install a hacked firmware which removes HDCP compliance, which will allow for the upconversion of all material to 720p and 1080i through the component outputs.

Isn't the component output going via a different processing path to the DVI ?.

From http://www.audioholics.com/productre...dvdplayer1.php "The Faroudja processing which resides on the DVI output board".
The DVD Benchmark link says something subtly different "The DVI video board in the player houses the Genesis FLI-2310 video processing chip, so the component video connections cannot take advantage of it."

I order my Oppo 970HD and should be in my house next week. I am confuse please help, I am going to use monster component cable and according to their website when i go to video setting i should be able to scroll through the resolutions (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i). Is that right, true or do i need to appied this hack firmware that i been reading in this forum to be able to get those resolutions.

Thanks

70MM,

No, on the DV-970HD uses the same path.

The OPDV971H, which you are taking the quote from, does not do any processing through the component outputs, as the Faroudja chipset is only connected to the DVI output.

I order my Oppo 970HD and should be in my house next week. I am confuse please help, I am going to use monster component cable and according to their website when i go to video setting i should be able to scroll through the resolutions (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i). Is that right, true or do i need to appied this hack firmware that i been reading in this forum to be able to get those resolutions.

If you are playing back CSS-Encrypted DVDs (pretty much all commercial discs) then you will need to apply the hack if you want to take advantage of the upscaled resolutions.

If the discs are not CSS-Encrypted (such as personal backups) then there is no need to use the hack.

Hello,

For information, I use a remote control ONE FOR ALL 8210 and DVD setup code for oppo 970hd is 1525. It is a new code then it is necessary to contact OFA support to download it.

Regards
alex_t

Done, Thanks!

I also turned off HDMI audio and changed a setting to 192 from 48. What does this actually effect? DVD-A and SACD?

Going to call Oppo on Monday and go through the set up with them.

Man, What a difference between my Samsung and this DVD player. Not huge video wise but the audio quality is amazing.
You should set it 96k. It only affect PCM or DVD-A, however I don't know of any DVD player that can pass 192k over digital [SPDIF] connection. Not many recordings done at that sampling rate anyway.

If you are playing back CSS-Encrypted DVDs (pretty much all commercial discs) then you will need to apply the hack if you want to take advantage of the upscaled resolutions.

If the discs are not CSS-Encrypted (such as personal backups) then there is no need to use the hack.



How do i get the hack, also if i apply the hack and oppo release new firware, can i apply new firmware or do i have to be stock to the hack to be able to see the resolutions.

If you're asking me, no, settings were 5.1/Large/Large/Large/On and Raw/Auto.
can you give more details? to why-
1. 5.1>Large/L/L..... this is the OPPo setting right-- why? what difference to you experience?
2. what setting do you have on your receiver? speaker large or small.

* using 6ch analog cables{ good speakers} -here, HDMI for video only
and theHUN- thanks about the info about 96K seeting -i had it a 192K

Done, Thanks!

I also turned off HDMI audio and changed a setting to 192 from 48. What does this actually effect? DVD-A and SACD?

Going to call Oppo on Monday and go through the set up with them.

Man, What a difference between my Samsung and this DVD player. Not huge video wise but the audio quality is amazing.


I don't think there should have been *that* big a difference, unless you had different settings of DVD-A and/or SACD output parameters in the two (speaker setting, channel levels, distance), which is quite possible. In which case it's not really fair to say one player intrinstically sounds better than the other.

If I order the player today, how long is the expected shipping? I'm having my new receiver arrive Friday and am wondering if I'll be able to do the full setup over the weekend. I live in Idaho.

Thanks!

How do i get the hack, also if i apply the hack and oppo release new firware, can i apply new firmware or do i have to be stock to the hack to be able to see the resolutions.
You can apply any firmware version at any time, but each completely overwrites whatever you had on it before. In other words, if you apply a new firmware from Oppo, the hack is no longer, and upconversion of CSS Encrypted discs over component is locked out again.

Any word on a hacked version of the 916 firmware? I'd LOVE to take advantage of the improved stability (mine locked up again last night) and the faster power up-to-eject times.

If I order the player today, how long is the expected shipping? I'm having my new receiver arrive Friday and am wondering if I'll be able to do the full setup over the weekend. I live in Idaho.

Thanks!
Oppo is in northern Cal, so I'd be willing to bet you'll have your player by Wednesday. They're REALLY quick.

How do i get the hack, also if i apply the hack and oppo release new firware, can i apply new firmware or do i have to be stock to the hack to be able to see the resolutions.

You can download the Hacked 0613 Firmware (http://rapidshare.de/files/29049631/613AMOD.iso.html) and apply it to your DVD player. You will need to apply a new hacked firmware every upgrade cycle, as the OPPO firmware will overwrite all firmware information, therefore removing the benefits of the hack.

I followed the dirrections that some of you gave and I am enjoying sweet 1080i on my DVD's.

Anyone want to comment whether 720p or 1080i is better in regards to viewing DVD's?

Thanks again for your help.

From the Oppo site.
"Q: What is the best output resolution to use with the OPPO DV-970HD?
A: The best output resolution of the OPPO DV-970HD depends on what type of TV or projector you use with it. The one that looks best to your eyes on your particular TV is the best resolution to use (Duh!). Technically it depends on several factors:

Typical consumer grade HDTV, HDTV monitors or projectors do not have high performance de-interlacing and scaling component. On the other hand, the de-interlacer and scaler in a high-performance up-converting DVD player like the DV-970HD is more specialized in de-interlacing and scaling DVD signals, leading to better picture quality. If not done properly, the process of converting a standard-definition DVD signal to the native resolution of your HD display may cause a host of video artifacts. These flaws will be especially noticeable on large and high-resolution screens. Quality de-interlacing and scaling are the key components to stable, artifact-free movie watching on HD displays. Based on these reasons, for most consumers the best output resolution is ideally, a 1:1 mapping to the native pixel count or scan rate supported by your video display device. For most ED Plasma, 480P gives the best quality. For HD Plasma or typical consumer LCD projector such as Sanyo Z2, Marantz and other Mustang HD2 DLP units, 1280 x 720 (720P) works best. Some rear projection or CRT HDTVs support native 1920 x 1080i, and for these units, select the 1080i output mode.

If your TV or projector has a high-quality internal de-interlacing and scaling circuitry, it is recommended to set the OPPO DV-970HD to output 480i over its HDMI port. This 480i output is the native video format as encoded on the DVD discs. The DV-970HD will transport the content from the disc in digital format to the TV or projector. The TV or projector will then perform de-interlacing and scaling. Similarly, if you use an external video signal processor (such as DVDO iScan VP30 by ABT, Anthem Statement D2, and other brands with HDMI input), the recommended output resolution of the OPPO DV-970HD is also 480i."

I have been deciding on this player as a slight step up from my PIO DV-45A. Does anyone have any comparisons with the PIO? The benchmark obviously give the nod to the Oppo. I wonder if the sound quality for SACD and DVD-A will be good enough that I won't miss the PIO. I don't have an external video processor nor do I plan to buy one. I do however, plan to buy a 55"-62" DLP next spring. Until then my trusty Toshiba 42 RPTV will do. Glad to see there is a hacked firmware so I can do upconversion on my Tosh until I upgrade my TV.

Anyone in the market for a Pioneer DV-45A :)

You can download the Hacked 0613 Firmware (http://rapidshare.de/files/29049631/613AMOD.iso.html) and apply it to your DVD player. You will need to apply a new hacked firmware every upgrade cycle, as the OPPO firmware will overwrite all firmware information, therefore removing the benefits of the hack.
Is this uploaded onto the player the same way as the normal oppo firmware is done? follow the directions on the screen?

Can this be used on the OPDV971H? or does it have another hacked firmware of its own?

Are these usually safe to use? :rolleyes:

The hack is installed the same way as the official firmware.

This hack will not work on the OPDV971H. There is a seperate hack for that unit which enables things like UPO skipping and Nero Digital MPG4 support.

The hack is installed the same way as the official firmware.

This hack will not work on the OPDV971H. There is a seperate hack for that unit which enables things like UPO skipping and Nero Digital MPG4 support.
Can you give me the hack for the OPDV971H please?

Search the OPDV971H forums. The hack is really not worth it, and is horribly out of date by today's standard.

970 Won't Play Wav Files That Burn On Dvd.
Any Opinions Anyone???

I have not had problems with WAV files on DVD.

Are you getting No Disc or Unknown Disc Errors, or are you not seeing anything in the Explorer?

I have not had problems with WAV files on DVD.

Are you getting No Disc or Unknown Disc Errors, or are you not seeing anything in the Explorer?
I am getting Unknown disc error.
thanx

1. 5.1>Large/L/L..... this is the OPPo setting right-- why? what difference to you experience?
2. what setting do you have on your receiver? speaker large or small.
Those settings are what Oppo state in the firmware release notes to use when you want raw bitstream sent to the receiver, which is what I want. The YSP-1 is an integrated receiver/speaker unit; it only has a crossover setting for an external subwoofer (which I have set to 100Hz).

Well there might be the problem. OPPO does not officially support WAV files, as that is not licensed for use on their DVD players.

I haven't tried WAV on the official firmware (MP3, as we know, works, despite OPPO not mentioning it). It could be that WAV is not support officially.

Just bought the Oppo w/ HDMI...should be here Thursday or Friday. Should be a great weekend.

Does anyone here have experience with the Oppo and the XBR1's? I'd love some tips, tweaks, or straight suggestions.

Thanks!

*EDIT: I'm also going to be using the new Onkyo HT-S990THX 7.1 HTIB. Looking for any setup help, tips, or what have you. Thanks again!*

Anyone else- set the oppo setting to large and then at the reciver small for the speaker setting?? I'll have to look at his. not sure it would cause some bass- hand shake issue.
Quote:
Originally Posted by DAB
1. 5.1>Large/L/L..... this is the OPPo setting right-- why? what difference to you experience?
2. what setting do you have on your receiver? speaker large or small.


Those settings are what Oppo state in the firmware release notes to use when you want raw bitstream sent to the receiver, which is what I want. The YSP-1 is an integrated receiver/speaker unit; it only has a crossover setting for an external subwoofer (which I have set to 100Hz

From the Oppo site.
"Q: What is the best output resolution to use with the OPPO DV-970HD?
A: The best output resolution of the OPPO DV-970HD depends on what type of TV or projector you use with it. The one that looks best to your eyes on your particular TV is the best resolution to use (Duh!). Technically it depends on several factors:

Typical consumer grade HDTV, HDTV monitors or projectors do not have high performance de-interlacing and scaling component. On the other hand, the de-interlacer and scaler in a high-performance up-converting DVD player like the DV-970HD is more specialized in de-interlacing and scaling DVD signals, leading to better picture quality. If not done properly, the process of converting a standard-definition DVD signal to the native resolution of your HD display may cause a host of video artifacts. These flaws will be especially noticeable on large and high-resolution screens. Quality de-interlacing and scaling are the key components to stable, artifact-free movie watching on HD displays. Based on these reasons, for most consumers the best output resolution is ideally, a 1:1 mapping to the native pixel count or scan rate supported by your video display device. For most ED Plasma, 480P gives the best quality. For HD Plasma or typical consumer LCD projector such as Sanyo Z2, Marantz and other Mustang HD2 DLP units, 1280 x 720 (720P) works best. Some rear projection or CRT HDTVs support native 1920 x 1080i, and for these units, select the 1080i output mode.

If your TV or projector has a high-quality internal de-interlacing and scaling circuitry, it is recommended to set the OPPO DV-970HD to output 480i over its HDMI port. This 480i output is the native video format as encoded on the DVD discs. The DV-970HD will transport the content from the disc in digital format to the TV or projector. The TV or projector will then perform de-interlacing and scaling. Similarly, if you use an external video signal processor (such as DVDO iScan VP30 by ABT, Anthem Statement D2, and other brands with HDMI input), the recommended output resolution of the OPPO DV-970HD is also 480i."

I have been deciding on this player as a slight step up from my PIO DV-45A. Does anyone have any comparisons with the PIO? The benchmark obviously give the nod to the Oppo. I wonder if the sound quality for SACD and DVD-A will be good enough that I won't miss the PIO. I don't have an external video processor nor do I plan to buy one. I do however, plan to buy a 55"-62" DLP next spring. Until then my trusty Toshiba 42 RPTV will do. Glad to see there is a hacked firmware so I can do upconversion on my Tosh until I upgrade my TV.

Anyone in the market for a Pioneer DV-45A :)

I had read this before. My questions is, I have the 970HD and a Samsung 46" DLP TV (720p) TV. I am not sure if I should have the DVD player upsscaling to 720p (or even 1080i) or if I should be outputting the native 480i signal and let the TV do the upscaling.

I had read this before. My questions is, I have the 970HD and a Samsung 46" DLP TV (720p) TV. I am not sure if I should have the DVD player upsscaling to 720p (or even 1080i) or if I should be outputting the native 480i signal and let the TV do the upscaling.

Compare the two results and chose the best.

regards
alex_t

Anyone else- set the oppo setting to large and then at the reciver small for the speaker setting?? I'll have to look at his. not sure it would cause some bass- hand shake issue.


I am going ot presume that you are connecting your Oppo to the YSP-1 via digital optical or coax, since it lacks a 6-channel analog input.

Certainly if you want to ensure that the AVR (or in your case the YSP-1), and NOT the Oppo , will perform bass management, speaker distance, channel levels, you'll want to set the speakers to LARGE in the Oppo so that it passes a full-range signal in all channels to your AVR. If anything , that would *avoid* crossover issues that might occur if both the Oppo AND the AVR are applying bass management. (For the same, reason, set your subwoofer 's *own* crossover, if it has one, to its highest setting, or better yet turn the crossover off if you can) You might also experiment with turning the subwoofer OFF in the Oppo, which should fold all LFE signal into the mains -- the AVR will then re-extract it along with all other low bass and direct it to the sub. (I'm presuming you've added a subwoofer to your YSP system)

Similarly, delays and channel level should be set to 'neutral' values (equal distances, no trim/boost) *if* you want the AVR to do all the delay and levels.

It may be that none of these setting affect optical/coax output anyway -- usually they apply to analog output, but one can't know without comparing them. I've found, for example , in another player, that 'analog' settings apply to *ilink* output for DVD-A sources(PCM), but not Dolby Digital or DTS (bitstream). In the Oppo, the setting seem to apply to PCM in the HDMI audio output, but I don't know how they affect bitstream (one would think 'raw' means, 'no', they don't)

Set 'multichannel' to 'on' in the Oppo too. If you don't do this, players tend to try to 'downmix' any multichannel source to 2-channel, before sending it on to the next piece of gear.

I have my Oppo set to such 'neutral' values, and my AVR has speakers set to SMALL (80 Hz xover), subwoofer ON; all delays and channel levels are also set in the AVR.

I have a HP PL4260N 42" plasma with 1 HDMI output that i use with my cable box. My Oppo 970HD should be here by friday. I want to use hdmi for maximum resolution is it a good thing to buy a hdmi switch box, whould i loose video quality or should i just use my monster component cable and apply the hack to get maximum resolution 1080i through component.

Thanks

I'd recommend a switch before the hack. But I'd also use the cable box with component and use the HDMI with the Oppo. At least try it.

I just ordered my 970, did it late yesterday and was absolutely surprised when I got a ship notification from FedEx. Amazing.

But, on to my question. I have seen several people insist that the best way to hook up the 970 is HDMI for video and optical or coax for DD and DTs. Is this so? Is there any disadvantage to using HDMI to send the signals to be decoded by your reciever? Unless HDMI ismore vulnerable to jitter, I can't see any reason why this would be the case.

I will be hooking this up, to a Panasonic SA-XR57 through a Monoprice v2.0 switcher. Since my Yamaha RF demodulator will not passthrough the optical for DTS laserdiscs, my LD player will take up two digital inputs, so I don't want to use another up if there is no reason to, but if there is something I don't know, I'll have to work with it.

Thanks,

Chris

Ordered the 970 and it got me thinking about also upgrading to an HDMI capable receiver. I've got a couple questions.

If I input component video from an HD cable box into a receiver can the receiver output that signal thru HDMI to the TV?

Will I get the full surround effect from SACD thru HDMI? I currently have to use analog connections.

Thanks

I am going ot presume that you are connecting your Oppo to the YSP-1 via digital optical or coax, since it lacks a 6-channel analog input.
Oppo to Crystalio II via HDMI, then CII to YSP-1 via optical. I have no problem getting DD through this chain using the original Oppo firmware, but cannot get it using the latest firmware.

I posted this on it's own thread and then realized I might get some answers here.

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

Hey guys. I got the OPPO in the mail today and just placed right on top of the old Sony DVP - S7700, transfer some connections to it and took a look. I've got a Sammy 5688 DLP.

Connected HDMI cable ( 25 ft ) and Digital coax cable for sound. Popped in 5th Element............ first 10 minutes is all I need.

Picture sharpness is much better, However 2 issues.

1. Picture has like a milky haze over it and on black outer space scenes, I can see almost like a rust colored haze. I can't explain it. I put the movie back in the Sony and blacks again looked normal, so it's something with player/TV set-up?

2. The sound didn't come through in Dolby Digital. It's only Surround???

Silly me thought I could just get a player, plug it in and go.

I know both the TV and OPPO have set-up menus, so can someone tell me what's going on?

Thanks in advance.

Ordered the 970 and it got me thinking about also upgrading to an HDMI capable receiver. I've got a couple questions.

If I input component video from an HD cable box into a receiver can the receiver output that signal thru HDMI to the TV?

Will I get the full surround effect from SACD thru HDMI? I currently have to use analog connections.

Thanks

I've had the 970 for about a week now and love it! I picked it up to play SACD, DVD-Audio and CD's. I have it connected to my Yamaha HTR-6090 via an HDMI connection. My receiver is connected to my Sony KDF-60XS TV via HDMI as well. I have a Toshiba HD-A1 connected via HDMI to the receiver as well as an older Samusung HD841 DVD player connected via component to the receiver.

So the answer to your first question is yes...depending on your receivers capabilities.

As for your second questions the answer is yes...SACD and DVD-Audio are played in full surround via the HDMI connection. I tried connecting the 970 both via HDMI and via the analog connection and could not tell the difference when doing the A/B test.

I've had the 970 for about a week now and love it! I picked it up to play SACD, DVD-Audio and CD's. I have it connected to my Yamaha HTR-6090 via an HDMI connection. My receiver is connected to my Sony KDF-60XS TV via HDMI as well. I have a Toshiba HD-A1 connected via HDMI to the receiver as well as an older Samusung HD841 DVD player connected via component to the receiver.

So the answer to your first question is yes...depending on your receivers capabilities.

As for your second questions the answer is yes...SACD and DVD-Audio are played in full surround via the HDMI connection. I tried connecting the 970 both via HDMI and via the analog connection and could not tell the difference when doing the A/B test.

I was just going to say it depends on the receiver. I know the new Pioneer Elite I was looking at (VSX-80TXV?) does not do this. It will allow all other video to be output via component out though (from what I read). So it just depends. Also, when using HDMI for SACD/DVD-A you are supposed to set the resolution to 720p or 1080i I believe to allow for the full bandwidth.

zork52,

Not all DVD players are created equal (different output levels, color, sharpness, etc.). The display should be recalibrated for the new player. Purchase the Digital Video Essentials DVD and calibrate for the Oppo. My guess is that the Samsung's brightness will need to be lowered and the color temperature adjusted (use a 6500K daylight florescent as reference, for example).

Paul

Does any Oppo 970 owner connect it to the latest Samsung LCD, e.g., S4695D or/S4696D? I have 4695, and am considering 970 as my DVD player, but am wondering if my TV's scaler does a better job than 970. Has anyone compared? I have also heard that Samsung LCD can not take 480i.

And how is the quality of JPEG playback? The S4695D does not have USB interface, unlike the S4696D, so I was hoping that the DVD player can make it up. Can the 970 do the job?

So I have been testing out many of my DVDs since I got the Oppo 970HD along with my new Samsung S4666W. On a few of my older DVDs such as "Days of Thunder", "Top Gun" and "Rounders" to name a few, the picture looks like this:

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y192/wizzman/Random/distortion.jpg

All the information is there but the picture is compressed. When I switch the TV to 4:3 mode the picture looks undistorted but I then have black bars on the sides along with the black bars on the DVD itself:

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y192/wizzman/Random/distorted2.jpg

This seems rediculous to waste so much of the screen with black bars on all sides just to view an undistorted image. I am pretty concered with this as I have quite a few DVDs that exhibit this problem. It should also be noted that I can only choose 4:3 or 16:9 none of the "Zoom" features" via the TV menu are available.

I have also noticed at least 3 discs have skipped and/or lagged mid movie. Discs are not scratched at all and never skipped on my PS2.

Not impressed with this player thus far....

Help!

I don't have any of the titles you mentioned, but it looks to me like you've got some non-anamorphic widescreen titles. The Oppo is doing exactly what a DVD player should do - the picture appears to it to be a 4:3 image, and the black bars above and below the letterbox image are part of the actual image. Both "4:3" and "16:9 Wide/Sqz" will produce the black bars on the sides. As far as I can think, there's not really much that any DVD player can do with a non-anamorphic widescreen title and a 16:9 display - the typical solution is for the player to put bars on the sides and for the TV to zoom in on the image, although if the TV isn't allowing any zoom control you could try the Oppo's "zoom" feature ("ZOOM" button on the Oppo's remote).

Point not your finger of blame at your Oppo, my son, but at your old letterboxed DVDs.

Everything is happening as it is supposed to. Some older titles are not recorded in "proper" widescreen, but have the black bars pre-inserted on a 4:3 video picture. Most likely this means they just used the old laserdisc masters when creating the DVD. The just-released Star Wars theatrical versions are the same way, which is why everybody is so upset at them.

There are several ways you can convince the picture to fill the screen, and since I am merely considering buying an Oppo rather than actually having access to one, I can not tell you what they are on an Oppo, except that you may need to get the TV's "zoom" feature to work.

On many TVs, "zoom" does not work with upscaled video. Change your Oppo's output to 480P or 480i and try it again.

I´ve read the first 10 pages of this thread and make some search buy do not find what I'm looking for.
Have you tested the hdmi and the component out and notice a diference in PQ?

I decided to buy this player to use it over component to a SP 4805 projector, a Faroudja chip based pj. I will use component because do not want to change the 50' cable I already own, and I guess there is little improvement in PQ over hdmi/dvi.
I will test the 480p out, and if do not like it i will go for a 480i signal and let the pj do the deinterlacing.

Thanks for the aspect ratio explanation gonk and narkspud. I had not idea that some of the older widescreen dvds were merely 4:3 movies with the black bars. Changing the Oppo's output to 480p allowed me to choose Zoom1 on my Samsung and get an undistorted picture at the correct size. The picture is not the greatest but it never really was on the discs in question.

I am still experiencing some noticeable skipping on a few movies. It occurs when I skip a few scenes forward, backward or back and forth. Then its as if teh player lost its place, it freezes then skips like someone keeps pausing it but when it plays again it has skipped what occured in the movie during the paused time. I have emailed Oppo about this and will see what they say. It does not occur on many discs, but frustrating nonetheless.

Thanks for the aspect ratio explanation gonk and narkspud. I had not idea that some of the older widescreen dvds were merely 4:3 movies with the black bars. Changing the Oppo's output to 480p allowed me to choose Zoom1 on my Samsung and get an undistorted picture at the correct size. The picture is not the greatest but it never really was on the discs in question.

I am still experiencing some noticeable skipping on a few movies. It occurs when I skip a few scenes forward, backward or back and forth. Then its as if teh player lost its place, it freezes then skips like someone keeps pausing it but when it plays again it has skipped what occured in the movie during the paused time. I have emailed Oppo about this and will see what they say. It does not occur on many discs, but frustrating nonetheless.

have you installed the latest firmware?

have you installed the latest firmware?
Nope, I just assumed it was up to date as it just arrived a week ago...

Nope, I just assumed it was up to date as it just arrived a week ago...

Go download the latest firmware which was release a few days back. It should solve the skipping issue. Go read up on it.

Go download the latest firmware which was release a few days back. It should solve the skipping issue. Go read up on it.
Can you link me to where I can read up on this?

Also after some troubleshooting, I was able to eliminate the skipping and lagging when I switched the 970HD's output to 420p. But I would prefer to be upscaling to 720p which is why I bought the player.

Thanks for the aspect ratio explanation gonk and narkspud. I had not idea that some of the older widescreen dvds were merely 4:3 movies with the black bars.

Top Gun and Rounders are both available in newer "Special Edition" DVDs that have new anamorphic transfers. You're SOL on Days of Thunder, though.

I had not idea that some of the older widescreen dvds were merely 4:3 movies with the black bars.

That is incorrect in a way. The movies were recorded to be displayed on a 4:3 set so to maintain the correct aspect ratio they added the black bars. As stated this started with laserdiscs and carried over to DVD and some VHS that were offered in ws (letterbox). It is wasted resolution. This is an issue even on my older Toshiba RPTV when it see's an "HD" signal it won't let you use any of the zoom features.

My TV won't let me zoom anything 480P and up...but the Oppo's zoom feature works very nicely, and seems to keep a better handle on smoothing the resolution anyway.

I extremely happy with the way the 970 zooms non-anamorphic, widescreen material. I usually keep the zoom at 1.5X as it shows the entire image, yet it keeps the image slightly underscanned (by a few percent) which supresses artifacts that may be seen if the image was any bigger. All in all, I consider it almost perfect. Using the zoom function on my display is terrible --- especially since it shows/zooms horizontal scanlines (my set is a CRT RPTV) which makes the image almost unwatchable and overscans the image too much which brings out not only ugly scanlines, but plenty of artifacts too. I think the Oppo zoom function is important as there are many non-anamorphic letterboxed DVDs which will seemingly never get released anamorphically.

Wow, after a couple email exchanges explaining my skipping/lagging issues with a few discs, Oppo is sending me out another unit with a prepaid return label! They said it may be the laser head cannot focus properly on the disc. Hope this fixes the problem.

HUGE props to Oppo customer service!

If it is working fine at 480p, it is possible that you are experiencing a buffer problem that is either caused by the DVD player or the display. Under this situation, a new unit may or may not fix your error.

Got my 970 today. Just got it hooked up via composite and stereo out until I get some help to hook everything up properly.

Really love the player so far, compact yet solid build. Sound from stereo outs seems a little quiet to me. Not a big deal since it will be hooked up through HDMI within a couple of weeks, but it has me wondering if there is a setting off or something off with my front A/V jacks on my TV.

One very odd problem. I have a refrigerated air unit in the room, one that has a remote controll. I went to turn the player off, and the A/C beeped and turned off. Apparently my A/C shares some frequencies with the Oppo remote. So, I have to figure out what angles will allow me to control each without interfering with the other. More of an amusing problem than an annoying one, but I have an odd sense of humor. Shouldn't be much of an issue for long, but right now we are still having 90+ temperatures.

Anyway, very happy with Oppo so far, and looking forward to playing with it more.

Thanks to all who gave me input on the player,

Chris

My TV won't let me zoom anything 480P and up...but the Oppo's zoom feature works very nicely, and seems to keep a better handle on smoothing the resolution anyway.
That's kinda weird they limit it like that. My TV (Hitachi) will let me zoom in on 720p and 1080i material.

I have been trying to upconvert encrypted DVD's over a component connection. I installed the 0613 hacked firmware for the Oppo Digital DV-970HD in the hopes that it would let me do this. It's HDCP hacked, which I guess means the HDCP is turned off enabling this upconversion to happen. Unfortunately, I'm not getting any upconversion. Am I missing a step?

What's really funny is that my TV (a Zenith/LG) is just the opposite of Scion's - it will only zoom 720p or 1080i sources, but refuses to do so with 480i or 480p. At least there's still the option of setting the Oppo to 16:9/squeeze and using the Oppo's zoom function for those old non-anamorphic discs, such that the TV never has to enter the equation.

I have been trying to upconvert encrypted DVD's over a component connection. I installed the 0613 hacked firmware for the Oppo Digital DV-970HD in the hopes that it would let me do this. It's HDCP hacked, which I guess means the HDCP is turned off enabling this upconversion to happen. Unfortunately, I'm not getting any upconversion. Am I missing a step?

Ensure that you are actually using an enhanced resolution. Press Eject then press the HDMI button to change resolutions. You should be able to use 720p and 1080i through the component outputs unrestricted.

I extremely happy with the way the 970 zooms non-anamorphic, widescreen material. I usually keep the zoom at 1.5X as it shows the entire image, yet it keeps the image slightly underscanned (by a few percent) which supresses artifacts that may be seen if the image was any bigger. All in all, I consider it almost perfect. Using the zoom function on my display is terrible --- especially since it shows/zooms horizontal scanlines (my set is a CRT RPTV) which makes the image almost unwatchable and overscans the image too much which brings out not only ugly scanlines, but plenty of artifacts too. I think the Oppo zoom function is important as there are many non-anamorphic letterboxed DVDs which will seemingly never get released anamorphically.
Exactly. I think the Oppo does a cleaner job of this than my TV ever did of zooming a 480i signal.

The only other drawback on my TV is that I used to be able to PnP a DVD with a TV channel, maybe watching a movie on one half of the screen and the game on the other half. This also will not work at 480P or above. Not that big a deal, seeing as how I'd almost never do such a thing, and watching movies at 1080i is more than worth that little sacrifice.

blindcat7 - on a quick side note, what part of NM are you from?

I just got my 970 yesterday, Oppo ships fast! From order to in-hand was only 2 days! Hats off to them, must have some ex-neweggers working there :)

Anyway, I'm having an issue. On my XGA DLP projector, anything above 480p looks blurred. 720p and 1080i looks kind of bad. My projector's native resolution is 720p but the manual states it's capable of 1080i also. Is there something wrong with the oppo or projector do you think?


Everything is at default, sharpness is off etc...

Anyway, I'm having an issue. On my XGA DLP projector, anything above 480p looks blurred. 720p and 1080i looks kind of bad. My projector's native resolution is 720p but the manual states it's capable of 1080i also. Is there something wrong with the oppo or projector do you think?

An XGA projector's native resolution is 1024x768. 720p is close to that, but the image still needs to be scaled once it gets into the projector. So what's happening is that you're scaling the picture from 480i to 720p inside the DVD player, and then scaling it again to 1024x768 in the projector. This double-scaling process could degrade the picture. It's usually best to do all your scaling in one step.

An XGA projector's native resolution is 1024x768. 720p is close to that, but the image still needs to be scaled once it gets into the projector. So what's happening is that you're scaling the picture from 480i to 720p inside the DVD player, and then scaling it again to 1024x768 in the projector. This double-scaling process could degrade the picture. It's usually best to do all your scaling in one step.

Dang, so am I screwed here? I don't think I can turn off the scaling in the projector.... What do you suggest?

Dang, so am I screwed here? I don't think I can turn off the scaling in the projector.... What do you suggest?
Send the signal from the DVD player at 480i and let the projector do all the scaling itself.

Send the signal from the DVD player at 480i and let the projector do all the scaling itself.

Or 480p, if that looks OK.

Good call...yeah, there's no reason you can't use the Oppo's deinterlacer unless the projector has a particularly good one on-board, too.

Send the signal from the DVD player at 480i and let the projector do all the scaling itself.

That would seem to defeate the purpouse of me buying the Oppo in the firstplace? So I could get 720p/1080i

Good call...yeah, there's no reason you can't use the Oppo's deinterlacer unless the projector has a particularly good one on-board, too.

I don't think my projector has a good deinterlacer, but there is now way to not use it right?

That would seem to defeate the purpouse of me buying the Oppo in the firstplace? So I could get 720p/1080i
Not at all. If your projector scales to these resollutions well (or at least to 780P), and if you HAVE to use the projector's scaler, then the Oppo 970 is the perfect unit for you, since it will transport basically unprocessed 480i, and it will noly need to go through scaling in the projector rather than both.

I don't think my projector has a good deinterlacer, but there is now way to not use it right?
Sure. If you're sending 480P from the Oppo, then it is already deinterlaced. I highly doubt the projector is going to re-interlace, scale to 780P, then deinterlace again. However, at this point, 1080i is probably anti-productive because it WOULD require reinterlacing.

Sorry...it's been a crazy day, so I may not be thinking straight. I'm sure someone will correct me if I took the wrong trail. :confused:

I live in Alamogordo, actually I live in Oro Vista south of Alamo, but basically the same thing. I'm a lifelong desert rat. Grew up in Alamo, went to NMSU, just moved back from Abq. this year.

Regards,

Chris

Exactly. I think the Oppo does a cleaner job of this than my TV ever did of zooming a 480i signal.

The only other drawback on my TV is that I used to be able to PnP a DVD with a TV channel, maybe watching a movie on one half of the screen and the game on the other half. This also will not work at 480P or above. Not that big a deal, seeing as how I'd almost never do such a thing, and watching movies at 1080i is more than worth that little sacrifice.

blindcat7 - on a quick side note, what part of NM are you from?

I have a new Panny 42" plasma and the Sony DVPNS75H DVD player. I think the picture looks good over HDMI in 720p but I was wondering if the Oppo 970 would be significantly better. My instinct tells me no but then again, I haven't seen the 970 in action.

I like the extra features of the Oppo but will be happy to stick w/ the Sony if the difference in PQ is the same or only marginally better. Anyone tried both of these players?

I live in Alamogordo, actually I live in Oro Vista south of Alamo
Ah...so you're finally drying out after all the late summer rains, huh? Even Albuquerque got pounded this summer...hoping to see some REAL snow this winter, but we'll see.

Oh, well. Back to the 970 - Get that puppy hooked up right so you can enjoy it's full capability. Composite and Stereo simply will not do it justice.

Yeah, hard to believe that we could be thankful to have rain let up. They are still rebuilding several bridges in the middle of town. We escaped most damage south of town, one neighbor had their new driveway wash down the bar ditch.

I am hoping to get things set up properly over the next couple of weeks. I got my new reciever yesterday as well and ordered Ascend speakers today. I have a Hsu VTF-3 HO on order, but probably won't get it until Novemder or December. My brother is going to start giving me some help getting things going in the next week or so, so hopefully things will be hooked up proper in plenty of time for a Halloween horror fest, and I can get the multiregion code input so I can order some full bitrate DTS DVDs from other regions.

I am really looking forward to hearing the results of a totally digital connection from player through to amp.

Regards,

Chris

Ah...so you're finally drying out after all the late summer rains, huh? Even Albuquerque got pounded this summer...hoping to see some REAL snow this winter, but we'll see.

Oh, well. Back to the 970 - Get that puppy hooked up right so you can enjoy it's full capability. Composite and Stereo simply will not do it justice.

i got my oppo 970hd and i am enjoying nice video on 1080i with composite monster cable using the hack. I hook it up to the hdmi port of my HP4260n 42" plasma and somehow i like the composite quality better. My question is what is the best video set up, right now is on default everything 0 for brightness, sharpness etc.

Thanks

can someone point me to te exact page where the hack is to use HD through the component cable? i just ordered the 970 and my tv only has dvi but i use the hd tivo with that and prefer to use compnent on the oppo if possible thanks!

Yes Celticpride. Here it is

http://rapidshare.de/files/29049631/613AMOD.iso.html

thanks Neuromancer

I'm actually considering updating to the newset firmware to correct some issues and gain some enhancements, and just do without the hack for now. I really wih someone would release the hack with the 916 firmware. Then I could have the best of both worlds.

thanks guys!

I'm actually considering updating to the newset firmware to correct some issues and gain some enhancements, and just do without the hack for now. I really wih someone would release the hack with the 916 firmware. Then I could have the best of both worlds.

Ditto on the 916 hack. I'm dying for it. Would even pay for it. Please, don't make us wait much longer. :)

i am kind of confuse, i bought this dvd player because all the good reviews and the ability to use component on 1080i. I only use it to play dvd movies, that is it. Are people in this forum use fo something else like replace cd players etc. I read a lot thta applying firmware wll loose features etc. That this apply to just playing dvd movies. I am very impress with quality.

2 questions -
I think I'm looking at the OPPO site but I only see silver units - do they make a black?

Does the OPPo have any issues playing back burned media? I use DVD+R

Thanks

Unfortunately, Oppo only makes silver so far (otherwise I'd have a black one rigt now). As for burned media, it's played everything I've put into it so far, including DVD+R and -R.

I already got a reply from Oppo - they say they should have a black unit out by Fall but no specific date. I would guess late fall since they didn't have a date.

Cool! Did they happen to say which models will be available in black?

They were probably talking about the forthcoming 972 model (like 971 but with HDMI instead of DVI), rather than the two current models.

Question: The Oppo 970 and Sony 70H both had a problem with vertical compression of upscaled images. On the Sony, this was widely regarded as a fatal flaw (at least on this forum), resulting in a negative opinion of the 70H until it was replaced by the 75H. But for the Oppo 970, the consensus is that it's a great player and there has been very little discussion of the compression bug.

Is this because the problem is less evident on the 970 than on the 70H? Or is it a display-dependent problem only some experience?

Not trying to criticize or accuse anyone of fanboyism, just trying to understand. The 970 seems like the ultimate non-Faroudja solution (reasonably priced) except for this bug. For me, a distorted image would be a fatal flaw under any circumstances.

Question: The Oppo 970 and Sony 70H both had a problem with vertical compression of upscaled images. On the Sony, this was widely regarded as a fatal flaw (at least on this forum), resulting in a negative opinion of the 70H until it was replaced by the 75H. But for the Oppo 970, the consensus is that it's a great player and there has been very little discussion of the compression bug.

Is this because the problem is less evident on the 970 than on the 70H? Or is it a display-dependent problem only some experience?

Not trying to criticize or accuse anyone of fanboyism, just trying to understand. The 970 seems like the ultimate non-Faroudja solution (reasonably priced) except for this bug. For me, a distorted image would be a fatal flaw under any circumstances.

I think the reason this isn't widely complained about here is that the 970HD was designed primarily to deliver a clean 480i signal via HDMI which could be fed into a video processor for deinterlacing and scaling. Many of us here use it for that purpose. By Oppo's own admission, viewers not using a video processor are better served by the 971H model.

I think the reason this isn't widely complained about here is that the 970HD was designed primarily to deliver a clean 480i signal via HDMI which could be fed into a video processor for deinterlacing and scaling. Many of us here use it for that purpose. By Oppo's own admission, viewers not using a video processor are better served by the 971H model.Can the 971H do 480i through DVI?

I have a new Panny 42" plasma and the Sony DVPNS75H DVD player. I think the picture looks good over HDMI in 720p but I was wondering if the Oppo 970 would be significantly better. My instinct tells me no but then again, I haven't seen the 970 in action.

I like the extra features of the Oppo but will be happy to stick w/ the Sony if the difference in PQ is the same or only marginally better. Anyone tried both of these players?

I've owned both and kept the Oppo 970. I thought the Oppo picture was noticeably cleaner and sharper.

Can the 971H do 480i through DVI?
Nope, it can not. THe 971H only offers 480p (or 576p for PAL), 540p, 720p, and 1080i through DVI.

Hi everyone. You just open my eyes to the HD world (sorry my english). I´m thinking to replace my "great" philips 642k because I just bought a Samsung 42´plasma (PL-42P5H (720p, 1080i capable, HDMI)) and almost all my DVD´s look horrible! (thru components (I think looks even worse if I activate progressive scan?!), with a lot of "carpet" effects. I just finished to read all the 79 pages of the forum (!!!) and I would appreciate very much if someone could help me to choose beetwen 971H or 970HD, I love the specifications of the 970HD (especially HDMI and Divx support), but I´m concerned of the "720p-1080i squeeze picture" bug. I really want to SEE good upscaling of my SD DVD on my HDTV, so .... PLEASE can you tell me what is better for my Samsung (I dont have external processor...) So Oppo 971H or 907HD????? other brand and model perhaps????!
PD: I live in Chile, so I dont want to receive a "mistake"
PD2: Sorry about my prehistoric english, again, and Thank you

Hi everyone. You just open my eyes to the HD world (sorry my english). I´m thinking to replace my "great" philips 642k because I just bought a Samsung 42´plasma (PL-42P5H (720p, 1080i capable, HDMI)) and almost all my DVD´s look horrible! (thru components (I think looks even worse if I activate progressive scan?!), with a lot of "carpet" effects. I just finished to read all the 79 pages of the forum (!!!) and I would appreciate very much if someone could help me to choose beetwen 971H or 970HD, I love the specifications of the 970HD (especially HDMI and Divx support), but I´m concerned of the "720p-1080i squeeze picture" bug. I really want to SEE good upscaling of my SD DVD on my HDTV, so .... PLEASE can you tell me what is better for my Samsung (I dont have external processor...) So Oppo 971H or 907HD????? other brand and model perhaps????!
PD: I live in Chile, so I dont want to receive a "mistake"
PD2: Sorry about my prehistoric english, again, and Thank you

971 would be your best choice without an external processor.

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

THANKS!

Seems like the 971 would be a better choice for you...that is as long as you can tune out any macroblocking issues on your plasma.

Is macroblocking when instead of seeing a smooth variation in shade, you see distinct patches? I saw something like that on the Panasonic XP30 and returned it.
But I thought Oppo did something to "fix" the macroblocking?

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

THANKS!

I think PQ for you will be better with the 971 (all the tests point that way) even for 480p .... however for 2ch audio, the circuitry of the 970 is supposed to be superior......

since you ordered the 970, why not test it and if you are happy with it ... keep it!

for a stand alone player the 971 does a great job of deinterlacing though ....

have fun ....

Marcelo

Hi everyone,

On Oppo, I'm not sure at all what to do, as I really think my older Toshiba DVD Player w/Component looks better when connected to my Panny 50" 60u.

On the Oppo 970, the picture gets worse on motion scenes, but clears up on things that are static like menu pages.

I'm using HDMI.

Any thoughts?

I wanted to buy the 971 but was warned from Oppo against getting it w/Panny for possible MacroBlocking issues (no idea what that is, but figured they knew best).

Of course, most DVD scenes are in motion (or I would be looking at powerpoint presentations all day on a really big monitor), so this is a bummer :)

Am I doing something wrong?

Any help appreciated.

Also, we watch a lot of animated (kids) DVDs and I figured they should look fantastic.

Thanks!

djap2

Is macroblocking when instead of seeing a smooth variation in shade, you see distinct patches? I saw something like that on the Panasonic XP30 and returned it.
But I thought Oppo did something to "fix" the macroblocking?

What you're describing sounds like posterization, which is probably caused by limited color bit-depth in your TV, not by anything in the DVD player.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posterization

Hi everyone,

On Oppo, I'm not sure at all what to do, as I really think my older Toshiba DVD Player w/Component looks better when connected to my Panny 50" 60u.

On the Oppo 970, the picture gets worse on motion scenes, but clears up on things that are static like menu pages.

I'm using HDMI.

Any thoughts?

I wanted to buy the 971 but was warned from Oppo against getting it w/Panny for possible MacroBlocking issues (no idea what that is, but figured they knew best).

Of course, most DVD scenes are in motion (or I would be looking at powerpoint presentations all day on a really big monitor), so this is a bummer :)

Am I doing something wrong?

Any help appreciated.

Also, we watch a lot of animated (kids) DVDs and I figured they should look fantastic.

Thanks!

djap2

Well, for one, to do a fair comparison you should be using component with both players. In addition, you need to calibrate for each player. What calibration disc are you using? It's possible component handles motion better on your display depending on how HDMI was implemented. When you say it handles motion better, are you doing multiple A/B comparisons with the players using the same discs? I highly, highly doubt your older Toshiba player will excel over the Oppo in any way.

What you're describing sounds like posterization, which is probably caused by limited color bit-depth in your TV, not by anything in the DVD player.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posterization


Except that while the XP30 showed it on my Sanyo Z1 LCD projector with component input, the older Sony NS700P I am still using, did not.

Oppo e-mailed me and said HDMI can look softer("film-like") and "digital" compared to component. They suggested 970 would be better for me.

I think the reason this isn't widely complained about here is that the 970HD was designed primarily to deliver a clean 480i signal via HDMI which could be fed into a video processor for deinterlacing and scaling. Many of us here use it for that purpose. By Oppo's own admission, viewers not using a video processor are better served by the 971H model.

This explains it only partly. There are many positive reports in this thread of the 970 being used for processing, not just transport. And Oppo recommends the 970 for smaller TVs and for TVs that are susceptible to the Faroudja MBE bug (i.e. DLPs and Panasonic plasmas).

Are you saying that those looking for an upscaling non-Faroudja DVD player without an outboard processor should scratch the 970 from their list? I haven't gotten that sense from this thread at all.

Are you saying that those looking for an upscaling non-Faroudja DVD player without an outboard processor should scratch the 970 from their list? I haven't gotten that sense from this thread at all.

And you shouldn't. I have the 970 going into a 42" Sony LCD via HDMI @ 720p and the picture is beautiful. I don't think anyone but a hard core videophile could find anything with which to nit pick about this player.

I don't think anyone but a hard core videophile could find anything with which to nit pick about this player.

Except for that mine keeps freezing up all the time. PITA! Doesn't do it during movies though so I'm dealing with it for now.

Except for that mine keeps freezing up all the time. PITA! Doesn't do it during movies though so I'm dealing with it for now.

Do you have the latest firmware?

http://www.oppodigital.com/dv970hd/dv970hd_support.html

Yes, installed it a few days ago, and within 10 minutes after, it froze up again. Usually does it while changing resolutions.

I have been trying to upconvert encrypted DVD's over a component connection. I installed the 0613 hacked firmware for the Oppo Digital DV-970HD in the hopes that it would let me do this. It's HDCP hacked, which I guess means the HDCP is turned off enabling this upconversion to happen. Unfortunately, I'm not getting any upconversion. Am I missing a step?

Ensure that you are actually using an enhanced resolution. Press Eject then press the HDMI button to change resolutions. You should be able to use 720p and 1080i through the component outputs unrestricted.

I forgot to mention that I already did this. I'm wondering if the problem is the projector I'm using. It's definitely an HD projector, but maybe there is something wrong with it. I am trying to find a non-CSS encrypted DVD so I can test out whether it upconverts at all.

If you can think of anything else at all that would cause the problem, please let me know. Does this maybe have something to do with this info I found on this post?

DEFECT/WISH LIST:

05/30/2006, in approximate order of severity:

CURRENT DEFECTS:
Reduced picture size with 720p/1080i -- this is a well-known issue. It is a Media Tek chip problem and will be addressed in a future firmware update.

No. The issue referred to there is where upconverted images are VERY slightly vertically compressed. On most output devices, it is almost unnoticable. I haven't heard of anyone noticing blurred or obviously distorted images as a result of this.

Well, for one, to do a fair comparison you should be using component with both players. In addition, you need to calibrate for each player. What calibration disc are you using? It's possible component handles motion better on your display depending on how HDMI was implemented. When you say it handles motion better, are you doing multiple A/B comparisons with the players using the same discs? I highly, highly doubt your older Toshiba player will excel over the Oppo in any way.


Thanks for the feedback and suggestions.
Both DVD Players are 'out of the box'.
I know I may not be describing things correctly, but this motion issue is so bad, I don't think calibration would be a factor in resolving it (I own three calibration discs and used them before figured I would do this with out of the box comparison, although you are correct...component to hdmi is not the same...)

Yes, I'm using the same disc.
As for the Toshiba vs. the Oppo, I certainly don't want to start a debate of which is better but I put the Toshiba back to do a sanity check after using the Oppo and wondering what was wrong... I also used a Pioneer with the same disc and out of the box settings.

So, maybe my Panny has motion issues with HDMI...

I'll try the Oppo in component.

Yes, installed it a few days ago, and within 10 minutes after, it froze up again. Usually does it while changing resolutions.

Why would you need to change the resolution more than once?

This explains it only partly. There are many positive reports in this thread of the 970 being used for processing, not just transport. And Oppo recommends the 970 for smaller TVs and for TVs that are susceptible to the Faroudja MBE bug (i.e. DLPs and Panasonic plasmas).

Are you saying that those looking for an upscaling non-Faroudja DVD player without an outboard processor should scratch the 970 from their list? I haven't gotten that sense from this thread at all.

If macroblocking isn't an issue, one should probably go with the 971 just because it does have superior deinterlacing and scaling -- that's a fact. However, the 971 also has a slightly softer image (which helps mask jaggies and artifacts) compared to the 970, so tastes may vary here. The Mediatek processing isn't bad at all, just not quite as good as Faroudja. Regarding the vertical squeeze issue on the 970, Oppo will be releasing an optional firmware for this issue. It will essentially be the same solution Sony incorporated.

Why would you need to change the resolution more than once?

I was trying to calibrate the geomertry settings on the TV.

FInally got a 970. (I still have my 971, but it's disconnected.) I'm happy with the 970 for a few reasons. The biggest being much less macroblocking and banding which drove me a bit nuts when using the 971. Also, I had a slight problem with green using the 971... not sure what that was about (might be DVI/HDMI issue). Also, it does seem that the 970 seems a bit sharper than the 971 (according to some posts).

Finally, got rid of my Pioneer 588a and Oppo 971 (sold to friends) and got a nice universal player that does everything I need.

I'm a happy customer!

-Terry

p.s. I did notice the slight vertical resolution loss. I forgot about it (from reading this thread) and was doing a overscan adjustment using Avia. Then I remembered. But it wasn't that bad. It was about 1 or 2 ticks on the Avia overscan test screen.

Glad to hear that your DV-970HD is working out for you.

I got my 970HD today. It came with the latest firmware already loaded. Right now it's connected via component to my TV since I don't have my Pioneer Elite 84TXSi yet, my TV only has 1 HDMI input, it's connected to my HTPC, and I'm not going to swap cables.

My only complaint is that the none of the speakers can by set "closer" than the front speakers. In my case the side and rear speakers are only 4ft from my seat, where as my center is 7ft and the front two towers are 8ft. They should either allow negative distances for the center and rear speakers, or allow distance to be added to the front two. I realize that once I get my 84TXSi, it won't matter much because I'll be using HDMI and the receiver's distance settings, but it still would be a nice option for people using analog in a situation like me.

My HTPC beats handily it for picture quality (I bought it mostly for a digital SACD/DVD-A transport), but I'll be curious to see how things change when I'm using 1080i HDMI for both.

Does anyone else notice the 2X reverse on DIVX files is WAY too fast? 2X FF is much better. It's a hassle when you miss something and want to rewind just a bit... usually, I end up rewinding too much. 2X Reverse seems to be more like 8X reverse.

On most DivX/XviD files reverse will not work properly because the Index is usually badly encoded or is in a language the DV-970HD product does not understand.

Yeah...I've seen it on more than just the Oppo.

If you immediately press Play after Rewind, it will not skip too far back.

No. The issue referred to there is where upconverted images are VERY slightly vertically compressed. On most output devices, it is almost unnoticable. I haven't heard of anyone noticing blurred or obviously distorted images as a result of this.

Does this vertical compression manifest as a black border a the top of the picture using only HDMI-DVI but not component? See photo...unfortunately it did not upload. sorry

Component is actually worse than the HDMI, as there is a vertical compression and vertical shift.

Actually, with the hacked firmware, there is no verticle shift over component at any resolution. Not sure about over revisions. And so far, I have only noticed the tiniest of black borders on 2 of my DVDs. It is not present on the rest, even at 1.85:1.

My only complaint is that the none of the speakers can by set "closer" than the front speakers. In my case the side and rear speakers are only 4ft from my seat, where as my center is 7ft and the front two towers are 8ft. They should either allow negative distances for the center and rear speakers, or allow distance to be added to the front two.
The online manual says you input the difference for the speaker distances so for your setup the center would be 12" and the surronds 48".

The advanced setup guide shows the same info in the diagrames but contradicts this in the text:
If the distance between the listener and the front speakers are 60 inches, and the distance between the listener and the left surround speaker is 80 inches, the distance difference is 20 inches.
I don't have the 970HD, can anyone comment on which is correct?

kevM, you are correct. Delay can only be configured when the center/surrounds are CLOSER than the l/r mains. This is fairly clear in both the main Oppo 970 manual and the Audioholics 970 review.

For some reason, the Advanced Setup guide gets it wrong in the 2 bullet points below the distance graphic, despite having the graphic itself correct for when the surrounds are farther away than the mains resulting in a 0ms delay setting. Notice the bullets above the graphic also support the surround/center closer than mains rule.

-Brent

Thanks for the correction guys. I have to admit I pretty much didn't read either manual after I got the 970HD, though I did scan them online before getting it.

So, I guess I can reverse my complaint... The sub should be able to be set further away than the main speakers (especially considering it's acoustically late even if physically located the same distance). :D

is there a way to make this player region free? thanks

is there a way to make this player region free? thanks
It is in the first post on the first page.

It is in the first post on the first page.

thanks...I missed that some how....got it now. :-)

How about a 970 vs a sony 3100es, without looking at price?

OK - I've only been playing with it for an hour or two, but so far I'm really impressed. I've got HDMI going directly into my 34" Panny CRT-HD and optical autio going to the Sony recv. My only concern is the audio sounds a bit soft - I have pretty much stuck to the settings on page 1 of the thread. I've left the audio pretty much "as is" - should I turn off the HDMI audio?

I haven't messed with the speaker settings because I had assumed that these were for audio that weren't going directly into a recv. Feel free to call me stupid (most do) :)

Has anyone hooked the 970 up a nice external DAC like a Benchmark or Bel Canto? Thanks in advance!

Wes

Has anyone hooked the 970 up a nice external DAC like a Benchmark or Bel Canto? Thanks in advance!

Wes

Yes, I run such a config. Oppo 970 digital out into Benchmark DAC. I run the Oppo 970 5.1 analog into my analog multi channel preamp (not processor) - the McCormack MAP-1. This gives me Dolby Digital, DTS, SACD and DVD-A surround audio. I use the two channel Benchmark DAC-1 output for pure CD, DVD-A, etc. listening. The front two channels run through the new PS Audio Trio-100 Class D amp that power my Martin Logan Aerius i speakers (soon to be replaced with ML Vantage). I also run a set of balanced cables directly from the Benchmark DAC-1 (in addition to the rca's to the MAP-1) to the PS Audio Trio 100 amp. By flipping a swtch on both the DAC-1 and the Trio-100 I can go direct from Oppo Digital to Benchmark and balanced direct to the Trio-100. I call this the "Super Direct" mode which bypasses the MAP-1. This is of course only for stereo two channel listening. But, since the Benchmark has a volume control, I can use this mode when I really want to listen deeply into the recording.

I think the Benchmark DAC-1 is one of the better components I have ever bought in my 30 years of audiohile pursuits. It's up there with the SlimDevices Squeezebox 3 in terms of return on investment.

-CB

To follow up my issues brought up on page 78 of this thread:

I had some problems with some DVDs losing there place and lagging as I skipped through the chapters of the movie. It was pretty bad and repeatable on the problematic discs. I emailed Oppo and after 2 emails, they sent me an advance replacement unit to troubleshoot. Well sure enough the new unit cured all the problems I was having! They also included a shipping label to return the bad unit. You absolutely cannot top their customer service.

Huge Kudos to Oppo and ther customer service!

I use the two channel Benchmark DAC-1 output for pure CD, SACD, etc. listening.

The DAC1 has a 2-channel DSD decoder?

The DAC1 has a 2-channel DSD decoder?

No, it is not DSD. I got carried away. It is PCM only. So amend my comments to "pure CD, DVD-A, etc."

-CB

OK - I've only been playing with it for an hour or two, but so far I'm really impressed. I've got HDMI going directly into my 34" Panny CRT-HD and optical autio going to the Sony recv. My only concern is the audio sounds a bit soft - I have pretty much stuck to the settings on page 1 of the thread. I've left the audio pretty much "as is" - should I turn off the HDMI audio?


I do not believe that there are any settings which will effect the audio output of the optical/coaxial output. What is received is what you get from the OPPO.

No, it is not DSD. I got carried away. It is PCM only. So amend my comments to "pure CD, DVD-A, etc."

-CB

OK, so it can decode two-channel MLP PCM? (=PPCM =packed PCM = most common DVD-A format, though there are some L(inear)PCM discs out there too). OR is that decoded in the Oppo first?

OK, so it can decode two-channel MLP PCM? (=PPCM =packed PCM = most common DVD-A format, though there are some L(inear)PCM discs out there too). OR is that decoded in the Oppo first?

There is no decoder in the Benchmark DAC-1. It is PCM only, I believe up to 192k. I only have LPCM DVD-A discs that I have tested.

-CB

Yes, I run such a config. Oppo 970 digital out into Benchmark DAC. I run the Oppo 970 5.1 analog into my analog multi channel preamp (not processor) - the McCormack MAP-1. This gives me Dolby Digital, DTS, SACD and DVD-A surround audio. I use the two channel Benchmark DAC-1 output for pure CD, DVD-A, etc. listening. The front two channels run through the new PS Audio Trio-100 Class D amp that power my Martin Logan Aerius i speakers (soon to be replaced with ML Vantage). I also run a set of balanced cables directly from the Benchmark DAC-1 (in addition to the rca's to the MAP-1) to the PS Audio Trio 100 amp. By flipping a swtch on both the DAC-1 and the Trio-100 I can go direct from Oppo Digital to Benchmark and balanced direct to the Trio-100. I call this the "Super Direct" mode which bypasses the MAP-1. This is of course only for stereo two channel listening. But, since the Benchmark has a volume control, I can use this mode when I really want to listen deeply into the recording.

I think the Benchmark DAC-1 is one of the better components I have ever bought in my 30 years of audiohile pursuits. It's up there with the SlimDevices Squeezebox 3 in terms of return on investment.

-CB

CB,

Thanks for the info. It seems by your post that the Oppo is up for transport duty with some pretty nice equipment? I'm running a Bel Canto with a Rotel 1072 and was curious how the Oppo sounded as a transport.

Thanks,
Wes

Anyone know of a way that I could use my Oppo to output true HD from:
http://www.elephantsdream.org/

Anyone know of a way that I could use my Oppo to output true HD from:
http://www.elephantsdream.org/

The Oppo only plays SD DVDs .. I thought True HD sound is only available on HD DVD titles ....

I don't think the Oppo plays HD DIVX either.... anyone knows if it can play HD DIVX??

According to the Divx HD page these 4 players support Divx HD.
http://www.divx.com/products/hw/browse.php?c=7

Hope there is enough processing power in the 970 to see Divx HD in a software upgrade someday. :)

Forgive me if this has been answered already, but I've gone through this whole thread and the feeling I'm getting is that the 970 is not as adept at PAL conversion as the 971. Is this true? I am looking for a player strictly for multi-region capabilities and PAL->NTSC conversion (my main player is the Toshiba HD-A1). I tried the 971 a while back and had macroblocking issues on some discs on my Tosh 46H84 CRT RPTV, so I'm a little reluctant to try the upcoming 972. I'm currently using a modded Pioneer 578, which does a good job, but I'd like the upconversion capability through HDMI, as the HD-A1 has spoiled me for SD upconversion. I guess my question is: Is the PAL conversion decent or will I be disappointed? I can wait for the 971 replacement; urgency is not an issue.

Thanks, Ted

Thought I'd pass this along to the 970 faithful here....

I sent Oppo an email yesterday, asking if they'd ever implement a 'raw' option for high-resolution PCM (e.g., DVD-Audio and SACDs coverted to hi-rez PCM) via the HDMI Audio output. This would be analogous to the 'raw' option of the Digital Output, bypassing the internal DSP of the Oppo, and allowing a downstream AVR or other device to perform all the DSP on a 'pure' signal coming from the HDMI.

They replied *the same day* :

Because we are using a HDMI 1.1 interface, and lack i.Link/IEEE, there
is no way to produce a DSP signal for SACD and raw high resolution
DVD-Audio discs. It is something that we are looking into, in terms of
software and hardware solutions, but we do not know what limitations
our current hardware and software has. We are, however, taking this
issue seriously and are investigating all avenues of support.


Kudos to Oppo for incredibly responsive customer support.

Thought I'd pass this along to the 970 faithful here....

I sent Oppo an email yesterday, asking if they'd ever implement a 'raw' option for high-resolution PCM (e.g., DVD-Audio and SACDs coverted to hi-rez PCM) via the HDMI Audio output. This would be analogous to the 'raw' option of the Digital Output, bypassing the internal DSP of the Oppo, and allowing a downstream AVR or other device to perform all the DSP on a 'pure' signal coming from the HDMI.
I guess I don't exactly understand what you're asking for. If you set all the levels to 0, all the speakers to large, and set all the speakers to 0 inches exactly what is the DSP doing that could or should be avoided?

The DSP has to decode the MLP to LPCM for output over HDMI. Likewise it has to convert the DSD to LPCM to output over the HDMI 1.1 interface. If they had HDMI 1.2 they could output the DSD in a "raw" fashion, but I don't think that's possible for the MLP. Best I can tell from the HDMI specs MLP can't be transmitted.

They would need to have a firewire output to pass out both formats "raw".

I guess I don't exactly understand what you're asking for. If you set all the levels to 0, all the speakers to large, and set all the speakers to 0 inches exactly what is the DSP doing that could or should be avoided?

Well, given that I made the same point earlier in the thread, I can hardly disagree. ;> It's unlikely there's any sonic effect, at those setting...whihc are the ones I use.

*But* it's also demonstrably true that my AVR isn't 'seeing' the DVD-A HDMI output the same way it sees the same disc when output from ilink -- it thinks all surround mixes, regardless of actual number of channels are 5.1 for example (though it doesn't output any sound from 'phantom' channels). So I'd be curious to be able to compare HDMI audio with and without a 'raw' option for hi-rez PCM.

Alternately, if Oppo can confirm that the DVD-A signal remains bit-identical from decoding to HDMI output, using the recommended HDMI Audio settings, that would suffice for me.


The DSP has to decode the MLP to LPCM for output over HDMI. Likewise it has to convert the DSD to LPCM to output over the HDMI 1.1 interface. If they had HDMI 1.2 they could output the DSD in a "raw" fashion, but I don't think that's possible for the MLP. Best I can tell from the HDMI specs MLP can't be transmitted.

I don't have a copy of hte spec -- rather pricey for me -- so I can't say.

They would need to have a firewire output to pass out both formats "raw".

Decoding can take place in the player..I believe this happens over firewire/ilink too. Which is to say, when my AVR receives an SACD or DVD-A input from ilink, I don' t think it's doing the decoding, just the D-to-A conversion and any DSP processes between the two.

(And actually, in my Yamaha S2500 universal player, it's apparent that at least some player DSP can be applied to DVD-A sources before ilink output; the "Analog Output' setting MUST be set to multichannel, for example, otherwise ilink output of this format is downmixed. This can be overriden for SACD only, by using its 'SACD Direct' option, whihc apparently really does bypass all internal DSP except for DSD decoding itself.

I'd be curious to know if all universal players with ilink output behave this way -- that is, having no explicit 'DVD-A direct' mode )

I don't have a copy of hte spec -- rather pricey for me -- so I can't say.
It's a free download from the HDMI website. http://www.hdmi.org/manufacturer/specification.asp

*But* it's also demonstrably true that my AVR isn't 'seeing' the DVD-A HDMI output the same way it sees the same disc when output from ilink -- it thinks all surround mixes, regardless of actual number of channels are 5.1 for example (though it doesn't output any sound from 'phantom' channels). So I'd be curious to be able to compare HDMI audio with and without a 'raw' option for hi-rez PCM.
Yeah, I've heard that too. I don't think that it really matters if it knows how many channels it's getting or not. I'm not sure we'll know the answer to your last questions until someone makes a HDMI 1.2 capable player with iLink.

Forgive me if this has been answered already, but I've gone through this whole thread and the feeling I'm getting is that the 970 is not as adept at PAL conversion as the 971. Is this true?

The DV-970HD does not support PAL Film 2:2 Cadence. For this reason, you are likely to see jagged edges (especially diagnols) and occasional interlacing errors. The OPDV971H has Film 2:2 Cadence support, so it does not suffer from the same errors.

For those using the 970HD and a Sony XBR1 SXRD:

What are your DRC settings? I know that the deinterlacing on the Oppo isn't the best but if you are using it with the XBR1, what are you feeding your display? What resolution? Any changes to your Reality/Clarity DRC settings (I know one should be Cinemotion).

Any help would be MUCH appreciated!

What is gamma and what setting do you use for your OPPO 970HD? This adjustment on the OPPO using my Samsung TXP 3064W CRT at 480p increases the contrast appreciably. Also I find 480p with a HDMI/DVI connection looks best to my eye. The 1080i setting shows more artifacts and is slightly vertically foreshortened which I find annoying. Thanks for any comments.

It's a free download from the HDMI website. http://www.hdmi.org/manufacturer/specification.asp


Well, technically, I'm not worthy :D

The HDMI technical specification is available to HD device, display, component, and test equipment manufacturers at no charge.

Received my 970HD yesterday. Compared DVI to component (both at 480P) on my Panasonic 42PD50U EDTV plasma. On the AVIA sharpness pattern, there was a weird "digital haze" in the gray background when using DVI. Otherwise, I saw no difference between the two. I'll stick with component :)

I got around to checking the 5.1 analog outputs from my 970HD today (for SACD and DVD-A) and found that the subwoofer output was nearly 15dB low compared to the other channels. Is this a known issue?

Another superfast, nice Oppo reply to me being a pest (in this case, about whether the recommended DVD-A setting result in bit-identical passage of the signal from decoding to output :


Provided that you are not applying any DSP, EQ, Channel Trim and Delay
settings, and other modifiers on the DVD player, the "neutral" settings
should be bit-identical. However, this is something that has not been
fully tested and verified.

I got around to checking the 5.1 analog outputs from my 970HD today (for SACD and DVD-A) and found that the subwoofer output was nearly 15dB low compared to the other channels. Is this a known issue?


I think many players show this discrepancy, which IIRC is related to the 6-channel output primarily being designed for Dolby Digital/DTS sources.

I always had to increase my subwoofer levels when using analog inputs. For example, the Toshiba HD-A1 is set to +7dB for the subwoofer through multi-channel, while it is at -7dB for DD and DTS and Redbook (optical). There is a 14dB difference in "performance" there.

I got around to checking the 5.1 analog outputs from my 970HD today (for SACD and DVD-A) and found that the subwoofer output was nearly 15dB low compared to the other channels. Is this a known issue?
How do you do such testing? Are there SACD and DVD-A test discs for this to use with an SPL meter (such as there are for DD on DVDs: Avia and DVE [with its issues on subwoofer level])?

I think many players show this discrepancy, which IIRC is related to the 6-channel output primarily being designed for Dolby Digital/DTS sources.
Well, I noticed that the bass on SACD and DVD-A was rather weak. I used AVIA to check the 5.1 outputs levels and found that LFE channel was 15dB low compared to the other 5 analog channels on the test tones. Unfortunately, I don't have a SACD or DVD-A with test tones to check if they're the same way.

However, after making the adjustments SACD and DVD-A sound much better. The MLP from the DVD-A's sound more like the DD5.1 or DTS tracks, and the SACDs now sound much more like my Sony SACD player.

How do you do such testing? Are there SACD and DVD-A test discs for this to use with an SPL meter (such as there are for DD on DVDs: Avia and DVE [with its issues on subwoofer level])?
I used AVIA to check the player's output because things didn't sound right on DVD-A and SACD. Unfortunately, I don't have a DVD-A or SACD with test tones, but things sound better now.

Okay gentlemen it's my turn to bug the crap out of you. LOL. First and foremost it's good to be "back" here on AVS. I just LOVE this place. Here is my particular Oppo conundrum:

First my television:
Panasonic SD plasma TH42PA60A (with 1080p upscaling chip)
(This is the centerpiece of my "minor" upstairs system. I plan to put a HDTV downstairs Q1 next year. For current TV watching a SD is all I need as Cable TV only broadcasts in SD and there are a mere 7 free to air stations here of which on ly 4 are broadcast in High Def MAYBE 20 hours per week so I am also using the Pana SD STB)


Now here's the deal: I used to live in Orange County, CA and now I live in Queensland, Australia. I have a DVD collection of over 200 DVDs that are all NTSC.

Since living here, I have "backed up" about 75 PAL DVDs and of course when we rent or purchase new DVDs now they are in PAL format.

The question: I've read about the cadence issues with the new 970HD on pal but even though it doesn't have Faroudja, it's only a SD TV anyway so no big deal right?

Sooooooooooo, should I pony up the extra dough for the 971 or just go with what I oringanaly wanted to do and nab the 970hd?

Your help is greatly appreciated.

The most important aspect of DVD decoding is its ability to do de-interlacing if your goal is progressive scan output. For this reason, the OPDV971H is still superior, even in the realm of 480p, because of Film 2:2 Cadence support.

Now, what becomes an issue, is if the difference between the two units is enough to warrant the extra money for the OPDV971H. I personally think it is for PAL support alone. Though, with Panasonic plasmas, you may want to worry about macroblocking.

The most important aspect of DVD decoding is its ability to do de-interlacing if your goal is progressive scan output. For this reason, the OPDV971H is still superior, even in the realm of 480p, because of Film 2:2 Cadence support.

Now, what becomes an issue, is if the difference between the two units is enough to warrant the extra money for the OPDV971H. I personally think it is for PAL support alone. Though, with Panasonic plasmas, you may want to worry about macroblocking.

That's kinda what I thought. My inner turmoil is that the upstairs is supposed to be my "minor" system and as such not as much in the realm of "whiz bang" as what the downstairs system will be. Having said that, by the time I get around to it, the "uber system" will most likely have Blu-ray or the likes. So the higher end Oppo will become the "lower quality but good looking sibling" in the future.

Moreover, I want/need a DVD player that will play EVERYTHING SACD etc etc etc so that if I want to listen to a DVD-A or SACD, I can do so on either system.

The biggest problem, is that they tack on 58 bucks for shipping to Australia which means either I spend 342 AUD or 271 AUD. As much as it pains me, my wallet may say 271 is the smarter alternative for what is supposed to be a "minor" system.

DAMN YOU INDECISIVENESS DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMN YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!

That's kinda what I thought. My inner turmoil is that the upstairs is supposed to be my "minor" system and as such not as much in the realm of "whiz bang" as what the downstairs system will be. Having said that, by the time I get around to it, the "uber system" will most likely have Blu-ray or the likes. So the higher end Oppo will become the "lower quality but good looking sibling" in the future.

Moreover, I want/need a DVD player that will play EVERYTHING SACD etc etc etc so that if I want to listen to a DVD-A or SACD, I can do so on either system.

The biggest problem, is that they tack on 58 bucks for shipping to Australia which means either I spend 342 AUD or 271 AUD. As much as it pains me, my wallet may say 271 is the smarter alternative for what is supposed to be a "minor" system.

DAMN YOU INDECISIVENESS DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMN YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU! Check out NZ it might be better?

Anyone using this player with a Sony XBR1? Looking for thoughts, opinions, settings, etc.

Thanks!

Check out NZ it might be better?


As far as I know Oppo only does direct sales. Unless you know of another place "down south" where I can grab one online. At the DTV.au forums one of the members there was investigating into being an international distributor. He found out that Oppo has strict requirements on price and from what I gathered the price difference wouldn't have been much. Let me know if you know of a place in NZ I can nab one. Thanks!!!

There is one shop in Australia (Merlin Audio Design (http://www.merlinaudiodesign.com.au/Google/Upconverting_DVD_Players_G.html)) and New Zealand (Rapallo Audio and Video (http://www.rapalloav.co.nz/products.php?cat=3))

There is one shop in Australia (Merlin Audio Design (http://www.merlinaudiodesign.com.au/Google/Upconverting_DVD_Players_G.html)) and New Zealand (Rapallo Audio and Video (http://www.rapalloav.co.nz/products.php?cat=3))


Thanks to all of you for the links and the PMs with links. I'll have to have a look-see after I get home from job #2 today (My "fun" job selling home theatre). This is truly the happiest place on earth.

Just a quick question.
My 970 connected directly to my TV (Sony KDS 42a) and sound level is VERY low through ether HDMI or regular cables. Has any one else encountered this?

Just a quick question.
My 970 connected directly to my TV (Sony KDS 42a) and sound level is VERY low through ether HDMI or regular cables. Has any one else encountered this?
Did you make sure the volume is turned all the way up on the 970HD?

For HDMI at least, check the volume setting of the Oppo. I have the volume control on the Oppo set at 20. It doesn't appear to affect the digital volume unless it is set to 00 then no sound thru a digital link.

If I'm only using this DVD player's coax or toslink digital output for PCM, DD or DTS on this DVD player, is there any need to make ANY adjustments to any of the audio settings?

Factory default is fine for toslink or digital. The only time volume affects the toslink or coax connection is when it is at 00.

Thanks everybody! I will try this.

I'm looking online and the pickings are slim.
Amazon is out of them and there is ony 1 other e-tailer listing it

But what is up with that stand-by red LED in a TORCH mode. It is sooooooooooooo bright I think I should consult my ophthalmologist for damaged retina :eek:

http://www.opt.pacificu.edu/test/journal/Articles/trustees/opt2.jpg

I'm looking online and the pickings are slim.
Amazon is out of them and there is ony 1 other e-tailer listing it
I'd suggest either OPPO (http://www.oppodigital.com/) or Surf Audio Video (http://www.surfaudiovideo.com/) normally, but at the moment Surf is also sold out so OPPO is probably the way to go. A co-worker just ordered a 970HD directly from OPPO, and their site indicates that they have them in stock.

I'm looking online and the pickings are slim.
Amazon is out of them and there is ony 1 other e-tailer listing it

OPPO sells them directly, and so does Projector Central (http://www.projectorpeople.com/hometheater/componentdtls.asp?itemid=21218&itmname=OPPO+Digital+Universal+DVD+Player+w%2FHDMI), Extreme Phono (http://www.extremephono.com/Oppo_DV970_SACD.htm), HK Flix (http://www.hkflix.com/hardware/xq/asp/pid.125/qx/details.htm), and Surf Audio (http://www.surfaudiovideo.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=DV-970HD).

OPPO sells them directly, and so does Projector Central (http://www.projectorpeople.com/hometheater/componentdtls.asp?itemid=21218&itmname=OPPO+Digital+Universal+DVD+Player+w%2FHDMI), Extreme Phono (http://www.extremephono.com/Oppo_DV970_SACD.htm), HK Flix (http://www.hkflix.com/hardware/xq/asp/pid.125/qx/details.htm), and Surf Audio (http://www.surfaudiovideo.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=DV-970HD).

Thanks very much.
I ordered the last one at Surf Audio

But what is up with that stand-by red LED in a TORCH mode. It is sooooooooooooo bright I think I should consult my ophthalmologist for damaged retina :eek:
It is rather bright, but it's flickering/flashing is much more bothersome to me.

Hi,

I've been reading through this thread, and received my new OPPO 970 today.

I have a Vizio 42" Plasma (budget is a little tight). I have the OPPO connected via HDMI to HDMI input on the VIZIO. I'm upconverting to 1080i. I notice no difference in the picture, and it's coming out the same size on the screen, about a quarter of the size of a real HD output, which fills the whole screen.
Am I incorrect in assuming that when I upconvert to 1080i, the picture should fill the whole screen, and I should notice a difference in actual picture size between 480p, 720p and 1080i. I wouldn't think I would have to zoom the picture on the TV set when watching a 1080i signal.
Is there something I'm doing wrong, and if so, is it in the settings for the OPPO or the Vizio?

Thanks,

Pin2121

You should use 720p instead of 1080i, as this is closest to your native resolution. Additionally, 1080i is interlaced, and in this resolution you will increase aliasing and interlacing errors. Using 720p will ensure that the DVD player does the de-interlacing and scaling, which should be better than your current DVD unit and television display.

Ensure that you have set the DVD player to Wide/Auto, and that your Aspect Ratio controls have not been altered on your display.

OK – I’ve been playing with the 970HD for a little over a week now, and I’ve got a few issues that others might be helpful with. I first connected the player via HDMI to my Panasonic 34”HD CRT. The picture looked pretty lousy - my Xbox 360 had a far superior picture over component. The pq was much improved when I switched to component, but the main reason that I chose this model was for the HDMI upconverting. Could it be that my TV (which is at least 3 years old and has no 720p) has a bad HDMI port?

The other reason was to watch PAL discs and now I see that this player's PAL conversion is vastly inferior to its brother, the 971H. I tried watching the UK disc of The Wicker Man and the picture was unwatchable; full of digital artifacts and picture jumping. I’m wondering if I ought to take advantage of the 30 day return policy and get the unit better suited to me. DO I kick my date out of the car before we get to the dance and it’s too late?

DO I kick my date out of the car before we get to the dance and it’s too late?
Kick 'er to the curb man. If she's not gonna fulfill your needs, then why waste the money on dinner and dancing.:)
For what you looking to get out of the player, I'd definately return it and get the 971.
Don't know what to say about the picture comparison, you'll need to do more research and let us know what you find.

Neuromancer,

Thanks for the reply. I switched to 720P, but I can't really make out that much difference in the PQ. The OPPO is set to wide, as is the TV. The particular film I'm testing is in 2.35 Aspect ratio, and was made in '95, which might have something to do with having to zoom the TV to get the right picture size.
I guess the issue I'm having is in deciding, like most people in this thread, whether I've made the right choice between the 971 and the 970. I don't know what the scaler/de-interlacer quality is in the Vizio 42", although I assume it's not top of the line. I don't have a video board in the mix. I rarely watch PAL DVD's. The main reason for the player is Divx, which sems quite good in this model, and getting the best quality PQ for DVD's I can. Since it's a 42" screen, will I notice any difference if I pay the extra $50 and return the 970 for the 971, or am I getting the best PQ I can get given the screen size I have? I guess I thought I would see a major improvement with the OPPO compared to a $50 run of the mill upconverting DVD player

Thanks,

Pin2121

The particular film I'm testing is in 2.35 Aspect ratio, and was made in '95, which might have something to do with having to zoom the TV to get the right picture size.

An old widescreen DVD is more likely to be letterboxed, meaning the image will be framed within a 4:3 boundary.

-Bill

I have a few issues with all my DVD-As on my OPPO 970HD & I e-mailed Oppo about it & thought I'd share my e-mail & their response. I was already aware that the Oppo had issues playing some discs, but was a little upset to find all of mine wouldn't play. I couldn't even get the downloadable Alan Parsons original DSOTM mix to play in DVDA mode, I only got silence.

my email:
I have 3 DVD Audio discs:

Metallica - the Black Album (R1)
Depeche Mode " Violator (R2)
Crystal Method " Legion of Boom (R1)

On all 3 when I try to play them I get normal DVD menus & am able to play the DVDs through that. However when I change the DVD Player settings for DVD-Audio to play 1st, the discs either freeze when loading, or do not appear to output any audio. I have RCA cables run from each of the outputs, plus Optical, plus Digital Coax. On my receiver when I try switching the audio cable sources, it makes no difference on a discs that do play, I just get silence. Playing regular DVD portion of the discs plays fine. Is there an easy way to switch between DVD Mode & DVD Audio Mode on a DVD Audio disc? Also what could be the problem with these 3 discs either playing completely silent or freezing when I try to play the DVD-Audio? Thanks, XXXXX New OPPO 970HD Owner

their reply:
XXXXX,

There is no way to change easiy between DVD-Audio and DVD-Video modes.

There are known compatibility issues with some DVD-Audio and SACD discs when using the hi-resolution audio. These compatibility issues will be addressed in a future firmware release. We will add your three titles to a list of incompatible DVD-Audio discs and ensure that they work in upcoming firmware releases.

Best Regards,

Customer Service

I was curious if any of y'all who own these discs have the same issues with your OPPO 970HD? I upgraded to the new firmware, but it didn't seem to make a difference on DVD-Audio discs. I'm new to DVD-A/SA-CD & Oppo ownership, so please be nice! :)

Since it's a 42" screen, will I notice any difference if I pay the extra $50 and return the 970 for the 971, or am I getting the best PQ I can get given the screen size I have? I guess I thought I would see a major improvement with the OPPO compared to a $50 run of the mill upconverting DVD player

The OPDV971H can produce a superior picture, but the problem with this setup is that the Vizio and the OPDV971H do not really like each other. Under this condition, you will either get a good picture, or a picture mared by sparkles and other artifacts.

The OPDV971H can produce a superior picture.

Over component? I thought component was fixed at 480i on the 971? this is why I bought the 970 :confused:

Has anyone has this problem with the 970? I'm thinking it must be the disk.

When playing the Seal [1991] dvd-a, there is nothing coming from my sub. All bass going through all speakers. It's as if there's no crossover assigned, which there is. I have no problem with any other sacd or dvd-a.

I've got no bass management on my HK635 for 6 channel analog input. Therefore, all bass management is via the Oppo. But again, I've got no problem like this with any other disk! Ugh.

When I boost the LFE trim, it just increases the bass from the mains. Still NO sub output.

I don't get it. What am I doing wrong?

The OPDV971H can produce a superior picture, with the cavet that you need a digital interface.

Has anyone has this problem with the 970? I'm thinking it must be the disk.

When playing the Seal [1991] dvd-a, there is nothing coming from my sub. All bass going through all speakers. It's as if there's no crossover assigned, which there is. I have no problem with any other sacd or dvd-a.

I've got no bass management on my HK635 for 6 channel analog input. Therefore, all bass management is via the Oppo. But again, I've got no problem like this with any other disk! Ugh.

When I boost the LFE trim, it just increases the bass from the mains. Still NO sub output.

I don't get it. What am I doing wrong?

It may be the way the disk is mastered. It may be 4.0 instead of 5.1. I have only one SACD from RCA that was derived from a three track master of a forty year old performance that only provides the front three channels! I wil be buying some Telarc recordings that I am sure are 5.1 to test out the SACD feature of the 970 asap.

Well it says it's 5.1 on the cover. Clearly I'm missing something...

Hi to all . I have a question about the OPPO . My experience using inexpensive DVD players as transports is not good . I Have an Aging AH Tjoeb 99 CD player that I was tring to replace , so I built a NON os Dac a year ago and tried a Toshiba 3950 and a Samsung (I forgot the model , someting like P-38) as Transports . Both were ok , but not even close to the AH! Tjoeb as a transport ( AS I said my goal was to replace the AH! because the transport mechanism is getting old ). My question is how would the OPPO fare as a transport in a high end stereo system ,would it beat the AH! ? Most of the disc's I play are CDr's using wav files ripped using EAC and burned using Burrrn .

TIA

Joe

Has anyone has this problem with the 970? I'm thinking it must be the disk.

When playing the Seal [1991] dvd-a, there is nothing coming from my sub. All bass going through all speakers. It's as if there's no crossover assigned, which there is. I have no problem with any other sacd or dvd-a.

I've got no bass management on my HK635 for 6 channel analog input. Therefore, all bass management is via the Oppo. But again, I've got no problem like this with any other disk! Ugh.

When I boost the LFE trim, it just increases the bass from the mains. Still NO sub output.

I don't get it. What am I doing wrong?


Is HDMI set to its highest resolution (1080i or 1080p)? That seems to be required
to achieve full 6-channel performance on some discs.

Yes it's on 1080i. Seems to work on every other disk. Gotta be a bad disk, although that seems very strange.

INdeed. I don't have the Seal disc or I'd test it on mine. I do plan to test that Metallica DVD-A someone else said wasn't working.

I do plan to test that Metallica DVD-A someone else said wasn't working.
I tried it again yesterday & it loaded, but it went to the DVD menus. When you play DVD-Audio discs, aren't they supposed to play like an audio cd? I was told by someone in another forum that if I'm getting menu's I'm not playing the disc in true DVD-Audio.

Not true. Most if not all DVD-A discs have a menu for the DVD-A as well as the DVD-V versions. In fact, the menu will probably say 'DVD-Audio' or 'DVD-Video' somewhere on it (or have the DVD-A logo or Dolby Digital/DTS logo). The menu will allow you to select tracks or select stereo vs. multichannel, usually. On ther DVD-V side it will also allow you to select any video content that the disc offers.

I've read that the DV-970HD has problems with PAL discs because of it's lack of 2:2 cadence support. I'm using my 970HD with a Pioneer 5070HD plasma, before I purchase any PAL dics, is there any way I can compensate for this using the settings on the Pioneer?

The Metallica DVD-A worked fine in my 970HD. First showed the Electra animation, then went automatically to the DVD-A menu, offering surround or stereo (with the DVD-A logo at the bottom, and option to preview other metallica stuff). Choosing one or the other brought on a second menu, with the song list. Both surrond and stereo played as they should , over the HDMI audio connection.

My Metallica DVD-A plays in DVD-A via the 6 analog outs on the 970. I also can get a subwoofer with the Seal Best 1991-2004 DVD-A via the same means.

I haven't read this entire thread but those that are having problems, have you updated to the most recent firmware version.

Guyrobinson, I was referring to the 1991 Seal album (1st one). I don't think anyone on here has had problems with the "Best" disk. I just don't know if the 1991 disk mix is without LFE, if I got a bad disk, or if something's screwy with my setup. I've got many SACD's and DVD-A's which all play great on my Oppo/HK635 setup--except this disk.

Buy the way, is there any easy way to set up bass management so when a CD or DVD is playing, there isn't overlapping bass management with the receiver. SACD/DVD-A playing via analog--all setup necessarily via Oppo. But when I watch a movie or play a redbook CD, I need to undo the crossover/channel trim setup in the Oppo to avoid overlap with the HK. This is a pain in the ass! Any easier way to do it?

Do you use the digital output from the Oppo for CD's and DVD's? If so, then you already have a simple way to bypass the bass management because the Oppo only applies the crossover and channel trim to signals that are decoded internally and output as analog - the digital output gets the raw bitstream data from the disc and passes it straight to the receiver.

Whew! I just finished reading through this entire thread over two days...

There were a couple posts somewhere in the middle about using this player with CRT displays, but there wasn't a lot of info. From what I have read, it seems that if you have a larger CRT display you find yourself in a bit of a pickle. One one hand the 971 and it's better deinterlacing/scaling seems to be ideal because of the larger size of the picture. Macroblocking doesn't seem to be a major issue with CRTs so I'm not sure how much that should factor into my decision making. On the other hand, many CRT owners find that 480p over component gives the best picture in the end. Soooo... buy the 971 for it's superior performance on bigger screens and live without 480p over component or go with the 970 and risk jaggies and noise but have the security of always being able to fall back to 480p over component?

Is anyone using this player (or the 971) with the Hitachi F59 series (the 57" or the 65", preferably)? How good is the onboard deinterlacing/scaling on this tv?

Guyrobinson, I was referring to the 1991 Seal album (1st one). I don't think anyone on here has had problems with the "Best" disk. I just don't know if the 1991 disk mix is without LFE, if I got a bad disk, or if something's screwy with my setup. I've got many SACD's and DVD-A's which all play great on my Oppo/HK635 setup--except this disk.

It appears that this player works the same as my 45a did. If a disc is not programmed with a sub (like one of the Ryan Adams and the Frank Zappa - Quad DVD-A), then you can't get a sub if the stream is encoded as PPCM. Even if you set your speakers to small. So what you have is probably a disc mixed without an LFE and assembled as PPCM.

I have had the Oppo 970HD for two weeks now and I have a question about the video setup screen. In particular I want to know what happened to my 16:9 Wide/SQZ menu choice? I have 16:9/Wide; 16:9 Wide/Auto; 4:3Pan/Scan and 4:3 Letterbox but no 16:9Wide/Sqz. I could have sworn when I initially setup the machine 16:9 Wide/Sqz was there? Thanks for any input.

Whew! I just finished reading through this entire thread over two days...

There were a couple posts somewhere in the middle about using this player with CRT displays, but there wasn't a lot of info. From what I have read, it seems that if you have a larger CRT display you find yourself in a bit of a pickle. One one hand the 971 and it's better deinterlacing/scaling seems to be ideal because of the larger size of the picture. Macroblocking doesn't seem to be a major issue with CRTs so I'm not sure how much that should factor into my decision making. On the other hand, many CRT owners find that 480p over component gives the best picture in the end. Soooo... buy the 971 for it's superior performance on bigger screens and live without 480p over component or go with the 970 and risk jaggies and noise but have the security of always being able to fall back to 480p over component?

Is anyone using this player (or the 971) with the Hitachi F59 series (the 57" or the 65", preferably)? How good is the onboard deinterlacing/scaling on this tv?

I don't own a Hitachi, but I have a 57" Sony CRT RPTV (KP-57WS520). I exchanged the 971 for the 970 due to some macroblocking. If I'm not mistaken, your display does not show 480p natively. As a result, it always forces upscaling to 540p or 1080i. So, you'll want to use whichever Oppo for upscaling as it will surely do a better job than your display. My Sony CRT RPTV does show 480p natively, so that can provide me benefit.

You may want to try the 971 and see how the MB goes -- just be sure to properly calibrate with a reference disc. Someone wrote some techniques as to how to minimize MB - see in the 971 thread. If that doesn't work (as in my case), exchange it for the 970.

Hi all,

I'm considering an Oppo 970, but also have a Pio Elite VSX-82TXS receiver which has the Faroudja upconverting chip in it...

I know the 970 doesn't have the Faroudja in it, but am I wasting my money on an upconverting DVD player (when I have an upconverting receiver)?

Anyone else have this setup that cares to share their experience pro or con?

Thanks,
Chris

I have had the Oppo 970HD for two weeks now and I have a question about the video setup screen. In particular I want to know what happened to my 16:9 Wide/SQZ menu choice? I have 16:9/Wide; 16:9 Wide/Auto; 4:3Pan/Scan and 4:3 Letterbox but no 16:9Wide/Sqz. I could have sworn when I initially setup the machine 16:9 Wide/Sqz was there? Thanks for any input.

Wide/SQZ has been changed to Wide/Auto.

I wonder if the sound quality for SACD and DVD-A will be good enough that I won't miss the PIO. Anyone in the market for a Pioneer DV-45A :)

I don't know if anyone answered this but IMO the Oppo is much better than the 45a. Especially when it comes to SACD reproduction. The Oppo is miles ahead.

Wide/SQZ has been changed to Wide/Auto.

Thanks. I thought I was seeing things!

I get my Oppo 970HD today and is great. But I have some questions...
1.- I´m from Chile and in the OSD language (setup page) I only have the "English" option, I bought my Oppo from extremephono (Oppo dont ship to Chile!) and they sale it with the Us especification, I know the On-Screen display can be set up to 8 different languages, but I can´t do this. If I "upgrade" my firmware, can i´ll have the spanish version on the OSD language setup?
2.- The subtitles in the Divx formats displayed only 2 lines of dialogue... there are any chance to improve this (my Pc and my old Philips 642k showed this correctly (example: 3 or more lines, and dont re-order the lines and show "-"... (I use .SRT format)?, can I change the font, size or color of the subtitles?
3.- When I play a divx file from USB pendrive, the subtitles are not showed, even if the name is exactly the same that the divx file.....
4.- How Can I select other subtitle for the same Divx file?
5.- I don´t see differences between RGB and 4:4:4 formats on my Plasma thru HDMI, wich one should I use?
6.- Qpel, GMC and others are supported or not in Divx-Xvid files? (I see a qpel movie, and it showed with pauses... (unwatcheable)


Thank you, and sorry about my list of questions and my prehistoric english!

PG
Chile

1. Only English is supported OPPO's menu system.
2. This is a known limitation. There is no current way around this unless you convert your subtitles to SUB/IDX (as you can completely control the subtitle positions, size, and color when creating your index).
3. This is a known issue and will likely be corrected in a firmware release.
4. You will need to have the subtitles in different formats. For example, if your file is called "Movie1.avi" then you will have one subtitle stream as "Movie1.srt" and another subtitle stream as "Movie1.SMI". There is no way to have mutliple subtitle streams within the same subtitle file.
5. Either. I would just leave it at Auto.
6. QPEL and GMC are suppported for DivX and XviD files. If you are using the USB interface, I would recommend using CD or DVD media, as the USB interface does not have enough bandwidth for even the smallest of DivX/XviD encodes.

I don't know if anyone answered this but IMO the Oppo is much better than the 45a. Especially when it comes to SACD reproduction. The Oppo is miles ahead.

Any particular reason you can think of why this should be so?

It appears that this player works the same as my 45a did. If a disc is not programmed with a sub (like one of the Ryan Adams and the Frank Zappa - Quad DVD-A), then you can't get a sub if the stream is encoded as PPCM. Even if you set your speakers to small. So what you have is probably a disc mixed without an LFE and assembled as PPCM.

So, if you play a two-channel DVD-A you can't get a sub channel output, when speakers are internally set to 'small' in the 45a and sub ON?

I don't recall that being the case when I had a 45a. I did have problems getting sub output with a 4.0 PPCM disc, though.

Should get my 970 tomorrow. Can't wait! :cool:

I don't know if anyone answered this but IMO the Oppo is much better than the 45a. Especially when it comes to SACD reproduction. The Oppo is miles ahead.
Yes, after getting my NE 50xr5, i thought i needed to up date my DVD player,
i demo a PIO 45a player, it was way ahead of my PR82 for movie SQ, so i started down the road to find a new player and fell into OPPO- and it did SACD too.
The DVD SQ is between the two were close, SACD is Better than the 45a but i couldn't swear, there was a hugh difference. I am now tweaking the 970 to get the best SQ out of it. Very happy for the price.. about 1/2$$$
db

Hi all,

I'm considering an Oppo 970, but also have a Pio Elite VSX-82TXS receiver which has the Faroudja upconverting chip in it...

I know the 970 doesn't have the Faroudja in it, but am I wasting my money on an upconverting DVD player (when I have an upconverting receiver)?

Anyone else have this setup that cares to share their experience pro or con?

Thanks,
Chris
I have the Pioneer Elite VSX-84TXSi and the Oppo 970. You cannot deinterlace and upscale 480i sent through HDMI with Pioneer's implementation of the Faroudja scaler. I just pass-through 1080i from the Oppo through the Pioneer and to my 1080p display, which handles de-interlacing correctly anyway. The Pioneer's scaler isn't anything special, so I'm sure the Oppo's deinterlacing performance is just fine if you use 720p. In fact, I find the receiver's scaler to mishandle reds in its processing of 480i and 480p component video sources.

So to answer your question concisely, you would not be wasting your money by purchasing the Oppo 970. Also, the Pioneer handles the Oppo's DVD-A and SACD signals sent as LPCM just fine.

Do you use the digital output from the Oppo for CD's and DVD's? If so, then you already have a simple way to bypass the bass management because the Oppo only applies the crossover and channel trim to signals that are decoded internally and output as analog - the digital output gets the raw bitstream data from the disc and passes it straight to the receiver.

Thanks, gonk! I read through the manual a few times and missed this till you pointed it out. Went back and saw it in the "advanced setup guide" (not in the user manual). I'm relieved...

I've read that the DV-970HD has problems with PAL discs because of it's lack of 2:2 cadence support. I'm using my 970HD with a Pioneer 5070HD plasma, before I purchase any PAL dics, is there any way I can compensate for this using the settings on the Pioneer?
I've had no problems playing PAL concerts that I DL'd from the net. As a matter of fact, I didn't even know they were PAL until I tried to play them in another DVD player (non PAL capable)!

SACD is Better than the 45a but i couldn't swear, there was a hugh difference.

I am hearing a huge difference which isn't even comparable to the 45a. I had a friend over that pretty much joins me every weekend for 4-5 hours of listening. He could not believe how open the soundstage was and how crisp and clear the Oppo was compared to our listening before on the 45a. More bass as well and a better top end.
I must admit that I am not a big video guy. I bought the player for it's sound. I am just running a 32" tube via component (480i). I'm not impressed with the Oppo in this mode. The video is okay but doesn't surpass the 45a in this respect. In audio though there is no comparison.

Any particular reason you can think of why this should be so?

I have no idea. I'm not an engineer. I just know what I am hearing from this player compared to the 2 years of listening to my 300+ SACD's/DVD-A's and around 400 Concert DVD's via the 45a. It's just MUCH better to my ears. The 45a is permanently disconnected now. I will keep it in case the Oppo needs repair. In fact I am seriously considering buying another 970HD and just leaving it in the box. However, technology moves along so this probably won't be a wise move. In 2 years I will likely be saying the same things about the Oppo that I am now saying about the 45a.

So, if you play a two-channel DVD-A you can't get a sub channel output, when speakers are internally set to 'small' in the 45a and sub ON?

I don't recall that being the case when I had a 45a. I did have problems getting sub output with a 4.0 PPCM disc, though.

I haven't tried playing a 2 channel DVD-A and likely never will. Why would you if the disc is 5.1? I would say however that you would not get a sub with PPCM in stereo mode if there is no subwoofer channel specifically mixed in the 5.1 mix unless the unit does something different when a stereo only signal is present.
I never used stereo with DVD-A in the 45a either. Never. Zero times.

Anyone tried the Crystal Method - Legion of Boom DVD-A from the Oppo 970HD?

I can't get it to pass the DTS-ES via the HDMI cable in DVD-Audio mode. For those of you who aren't familiar with this disc it has 2 channel PCM, DTS-ES Discrete, and 5.1 MLP on it.

I have the 970HD's HDMI Audio output set to "Auto" and the Digital Output set to "RAW"

On this disc if the Oppo is set to DVD-Audio mode when you select the DTS-ES in the disc menu you get 5.1 PCM out of the Oppo's HDMI output rather than the expected DTS-ES. DTS-ES comes out of the SPDIF with these settings, so the Oppo is really playing the correct audio stream from the disc. However, it's decoding the DTS-ES to 5.1 PCM rather than passing it it as a raw stream through the HDMI.

If I set the 970HD to DVD-Video and pick the DTS-ES track it will come out the HDMI fine.

Edit: I should also point out that the DTS-ES mix (coming from SPDIF) sounds a bit different than the 5.1 PCM output from the HDMI.

I thought I would add this since it ties directly in to my last post...

I just tried my DVD-A of the Blue Man Group - The Complex and it does the exact same thing with the DTS track as I described above for the Crystal Method DVD-A. It won't pass the DTS stream in a "raw" format via HDMI if you set the 970HD to "DVD-Audio".

I thought I would add this since it ties directly in to my last post...

I just tried my DVD-A of the Blue Man Group - The Complex and it does the exact same thing with the DTS track as I described above for the Crystal Method DVD-A. It won't pass the DTS stream in a "raw" format via HDMI if you set the 970HD to "DVD-Audio".

Did you try changing the default in the menu for DVD-A to Video? That may fix the problem.

It won't pass the DTS stream in a "raw" format via HDMI if you set the 970HD to "DVD-Audio".

When set to DVD-Audio it will be doing a multi-channel decode of the DTS audio track, rather then sending it to your receiver for decoding. For this reason, try using DVD-Video as your DVD-Audio source.

Did you try changing the default in the menu for DVD-A to Video? That may fix the problem.
Yes, it works if you set it to DVD-Video. I think I mentioned this in my first post on the subject.

When set to DVD-Audio it will be doing a multi-channel decode of the DTS audio track, rather then sending it to your receiver for decoding.
What's the logic behind this? For people using the analog outputs?