Which of these two is the best only considering audio playback for DVD-A and SACD?

I haven't heard the Oppo, but I would wager the Denon 2200 is clearly better.

My Denon 2900 is better than my Oppo 970 via the analog-outs, but it's not night night-and-day or obvious on all material. I suspect it'd be closer with the 2200. I doubt you'd hear a difference via HDMI outs.

I second the above. I used to own the 2900 as well, the sound was "fuller" with the Denon, but it had cost 6x times the Oppo 970, which I also have now.

Thanks guys. I picked up the Oppo 970. Once I get a receiver with HDMI, and/or Multichannel input I will be set.

thanks