I just received my Oppo 970 HD and have been trying it out a bit with my older Sony STR-DA30ES receiver. Unfortunately this receiver does not have a multi-channel input. I am planning to upgrade (I did find a new Onkyo SR-574 for $199)
but for now I am confused on how I would be able to hear the high resolution tracks if its possible at all.

I have a couple SACDS (DSOTM) and Aerosmith (Just Push Play, which has a SACD stereo mix) and several DVD-As.

I think I need to use the stereo analog outs labeled "mixed" on the Oppo since I do not have HDMI on my receiver anyway and there is no way to send MLP or SACD over optical. Or do I need to use the 5.1 analog outs but just connect the front channels and then downmix in the Oppo menu?

I tried the Aerosmith disc with the analog outs labeled "mixed" and it sounds ok but wasn't a revelation so I suspect either this disc isnt a great example of high res or I have something set up wrong. As a comparison I played the DTS surround mix on the Hotel California DVD-A via optical and it sounded far superior to my ears.

Thanks in advance for any tips.

Jim

Use the "mixed" R+L outputs.

For "down-mix mode" choose STEREO

When you playback an SACD or DVD-A, choose the 2-channel, high-resolution stereo track, even though you have already set the down-mix mode to STEREO. This will give you optimal playback of the 2-channel hirez material. Almost all SACDs will have a specific 2-channel hirez track. Most DVD-As will have a specific 2-channel hirez track, although there are some that do not. In the case of these DVD-As that lack a 2-channel hirez track, the player will down-mix the hirez 5.1 track to 2-channel, as you have already set the down-mix mode to STEREO.

Make certain you choose the correct analog inputs for playback on the receiver, and that you aren't simply using the digital connection.

thanks very much!

Jim

thanks very much!

Jim
I edited the post with some more info for you after having read your owner's manual. :)

Thanks again! I just got done setting it up like you suggested and then sat down and listened to a little of Queen, Pink Floyd, and Queensryche. Jaw is still hanging down... sounds great!!

It's kind of funny that SACD doesn't transmit over optical, because it still sounds really good over it.

It's kind of funny that SACD doesn't transmit over optical, because it still sounds really good over it.
The only thing you can possibly pass from an SACD via an optical connection is the redbook CD layer.

just think how good it would sound if you had a receiver with the 5.1 inputs?

just think how good it would sound if you had a receiver with the 5.1 inputs?

All relative... I have several SACDs with 5.1 mixes. I have occasionally listened to them in 5.1 on my HT downstairs, but in most cases I prefer the stereo mix on my 2 ch system.