#1500 wOOt! Had to do it.
Seriously, anyone have a crystal ball? Is blu-ray ever gonna take off? If not I'd grab one of these 983's in a second.That question is not on topic, but SD-DVD's will be around for a long time, hence the need for a great upscaling player from Oppo to replace the 981HD. Looking forward to seeing the Oppo 983H soon! BTW my message made the counter go to #1500! :D

If you just read over the last two pages of the thread, Kal has revealed the answer for you.


Thanks for the reply, but to be honest with you there seems to be too many "insiders" in this thread with a god complex to know what to believe anymore until it's available to the public. I could say I work for Time magazine and that I have inside information that Pakistan is going to nuke India and some people might believe it. So it looks like the 980 is for me, otherwise I think I'll wait for a published opinion instead of second-hand information. Also I'll be contacting the OP to correct the title of the thread if the 983 doesn't do DSD SACD. For Oppo to be such a cheap company for components, they sure attract too many rude people. Good luck everyone.
:rolleyes:

Thanks for the reply, but to be honest with you there seems to be too many "insiders" in this thread with a god complex to know what to believe anymore until it's available to the public. I could say I work for Time magazine and that I have inside information that Pakistan is going to nuke India and some people might believe it. So it looks like the 980 is for me, otherwise I think I'll wait for a published opinion instead of second-hand information. Also I'll be contacting the OP to correct the title of the thread if the 983 doesn't do DSD SACD. For Oppo to be such a cheap company for components, they sure attract too many aholes. Good luck everyone.
:rolleyes:

Wow Mr. Soapbox. Sounds like you've got it all figured out. I even gave you the name... KAL. So, it should have been fairly easy to find what you were looking for. He has a 983 as well as several others including myself, and none of us are giving second-hand information since we actually posess the 983 in-hand. We are all under NDA contracts, so all the information regarding the 983 can not be released. There have been quite a few tidbits of info given to ease the pain of those who have been waiting so long for this player to street.
That's all for you... bye bye.:rolleyes:

Wow Mr. Soapbox. Sounds like you've got it all figured out. I even gave you the name... KAL. So, it should have been fairly easy to find what you were looking for. He has a 983 as well as several others including myself, and none of us are giving second-hand information since we actually posess the 983 in-hand. We are all under NDA contracts, so all the information regarding the 983 can not be released. There have been quite a few tidbits of info given to ease the pain of those who have been waiting so long for this player to street.
That's all for you... bye bye.:rolleyes:

How can you be under NDA and then post that you are under NDA, isnt that a violation of your NDA :rolleyes:

How can you be under NDA and then post that you are under NDA, isnt that a violation of your NDA :rolleyes:

Maybe...;):D

BTW stevesns69, sorry about the attitude. I was trying to be funny, but after re-reading, I can see that you may be offended by that last post. No harm intended. :)

I am a complete nu-b here and have a basic question. My eyes are kind of sensitive to motion judder. I see that in almost all of the film DVDs.

My reference scene for judder testing is beginning of chapter 6 of 'The Day After Tomorrow'. The scene shows a satellite going slowly across the screen with black sky and Earth showing in the background. The satellite edges are at an angle and movement of the white edge is very jumpy against black background and even more so against the complex pattern of earth. I have an old non-upconverting Sony DVD player and Pio 5080 connected through Yamaha AVR over component.

Would 983 over HDMI be able to reduce this somewhat or do I need to get 24FPS output from the source to minimize this. Pio 5080 has a number of settings for motion handling. I have tried all without much result. Setting DVD player to progressive/interlaced also does not make much change.

Thanks in advance.

Niloy

Hello to all and hope we're all well, hope I'm posting in the right area, apologies in advance if I'm not. I have a Denon AVR3808, and like everyone else here am eagerly awaiting the release of this new Oppo machine. Its ability to output raw DSD over HDMI has yet to be ascertained.

My Question is, will there be any sound quality difference to the naked ear between having the Denon decode DSD (DV-983H trasmitting raw DSD to the Denon) and having the DV-983H doing the decoding (DV-983H decoding DSD and sending multi ch. PCM to the Denon).

Thanks in advance.

Please see that last 2 pages for the disccusion by Kal and others about this topic. Kal discusses his take/preference with DSD vs PCM (w/983) for SACD.

Can we just post a big memo / tag to this thread so everyone can see the answer to the DSD over HDMI issue? Lizst this is not directed towards you in any way or to any specific person. It's just that this question has come up more than any other and the answer has been stated each time (many instances). Plus there's the answer is definative and has no "wiggle room" left, from what I can tell. I wish there'd be a way to more efficiently have this information for people. Threads with the OP continually updates the 1st post with the insights gained are useful if kept up and setup that way.

I admit I"m biased (don't care about DSD over HDMI) as my AVR doesn't do HDMI.

BTW I believe the answer is nope. No DSD only PCM for SACD. Shear repeditativeness drilled this into my head. Again see the post couple pages for posts by Kal.

Tech Reason is osmething like another chipset is needed (MTK MPEG decoder doesn't have it? that wasy why not in the 980 right?) and it's hard to code / put in without having SQ issues.... Osmosis (nah Hammered into head) learning.

OTOH, I preferred the PCM output (from SACDs) to the DSD output with the 980. FWIW.

Kal, may I ask what receiver / pre-pro you were using when you made the above comparison? I have an Integra DTR-8.8 and, given the issues with the Reon implementation, have been waiting for the 983 for quality upconversion, SACD, and DVD-A. I could fall back to the 980, though...

--Galvin

I wouldn't suggest buying any BR player right now (they all suck). If you are watching your dvds on a smaller tv, IE:>50", then I would definately suggest the XA2 for dvd video. If the other features like SACD, DVDA, USB, ect... are of high interest to you, then I'd suggest the 980.
Although others will disagree, I don't think the difference in PQ of the 983 is worth it on smaller screens.

Wow...I have a 50" Pioneer Kuro Elite, and have been assuming that the 983 would provide me with a better picture than a 980. Not true, given Oppo's response re the 54" Sony XBR?

Any updates on supporting the vertical stretch for anamorphic lenses?

It is there but there are two caveats:

1. Subtitles can't be moved.

2. It is a basic Zoom that is an average. That is, the DVD player does not smartly detect the aspect ratio then apply the Zoom. OPPO merely found the average Zoom level which works best for Anamorphic content.

If there is anyone that is considered a true "insider" in this thread that can give a correct answer or at least can somebody correct the title of this thread, which states "SACD DSD" is part of the 983 specs.

I believe Kal already talked about this in a round about way in the previous page. But I, nor the other Beta Testers, are allowed to comment.

Wow...I have a 50" Pioneer Kuro Elite, and have been assuming that the 983 would provide me with a better picture than a 980. Not true, given Oppo's response re the 54" Sony XBR?

Your tv is sooo good, you don't need to spend ANOTHER premium price on the 983 for video quality. The 980 should serve you well. If, when the 983 streets, you should want it because of OTHER features, then you may want to consider it then... but as for pure PQ, the 980/Pioneer combo should be pretty awesome.

I too have a Pioneer (6010fd) and I have a Denon 3808 that I have set to upconvert all of my programming to 1080p.
Would it also be folly for me to wait for the 983 since the 981 and 980 are available? I do want the best picture quality I can muster out of good ol' DVD.
Any hardware recommendations would be much appreciated!

Kal, may I ask what receiver / pre-pro you were using when you made the above comparison? I have an Integra DTR-8.8 and, given the issues with the Reon implementation, have been waiting for the 983 for quality upconversion, SACD, and DVD-A. I could fall back to the 980, though...

--Galvinhttp://www.stereophile.com/musicintheround/108mitr/

Kal, does the Integra 9.8 convert a DSD signal to PCM if Audyssey or other processing is used? Would there be a difference between the 983's DSD>PCM conversion and the 9.8's DSD>PCM conversion? I'm really just trying to figure out if the DSD>PCM output from the 983 will cause me to give anything sonically, assuming I choose to use the 9.8's processing.

Thanks in advance.

Kal?

http://www.stereophile.com/musicintheround/108mitr/

Thanks Kal, Great article...

--Galvin

Originally Posted by mjmbond View Post
Kal, does the Integra 9.8 convert a DSD signal to PCM if Audyssey or other processing is used? Of course.

Would there be a difference between the 983's DSD>PCM conversion and the 9.8's DSD>PCM conversion? I'm really just trying to figure out if the DSD>PCM output from the 983 will cause me to give anything sonically, assuming I choose to use the 9.8's processing.Cannot comment at this time.

Cannot comment at this time.

I followed the link above to your 9.8 review and believe I may have my answer...

I'm also an Integra 9.8 owner and I've been considering the 983H as a possible source component for my significant library of SD DVDs. Currently for SD-DVD viewing, I use a Toshiba HD-A2 outputting 480i over HDMI to the 9.8 and let the 9.8's Reon handle the upscaling. The only exception is older non-anamorphic material - because the HD-A2 doesn't pillarbox 4x3 images correctly (and my projector is locked to 16x9 when using HDMI). I use my older SD DVD player over component in that case.

My hope was that I could replace both the HD-A2 and the SD DVD player with the 983H and end up using HDMI in all cases as well as the bonus of picking up SACD. But Neuromancer's posts from the previous page have got me wondering how much benefit I'd actually see.

If I understand correctly, sticking with my existing setup, going with the 980H as just a transport and letting the 9.8 handle the scaling, and going with the 983H will all give me approximately the same image - i.e. within a few percentage points of each other and probably boiling down to personal preference.

What I get with going with either of the Oppo units is HDMI from all source components, non-anamorphic material properly pillarboxed over HDMI and SACD/DVD-Audio. The difference between the two is going to primarily be price and if I want immediate gratification or am willing to wait for the 983H to be released. The one area where the 983H might have made sense was better analog SACD quality, but that's a non-issue given the Integra 9.8.

Is this pretty much an accurate summation? If it is, I might have to do the adult thing and hold off on upgrading my system. I hate it when that happens. :D

Is this pretty much an accurate summation? If it is, I might have to do the adult thing and hold off on upgrading my system. I hate it when that happens. :D

Are you still looking for 480i over HDMI? If so, the 980 is the player for you.

-Bill

mlharges, the wait is now short on the 983, just a few more weeks (hopefully). Try waiting till the 983 is released, see what it's all about, and then make an educated decision.

Are you still looking for 480i over HDMI? If so, the 980 is the player for you.

-Bill

+1 (I forgot about that)

Are you still looking for 480i over HDMI? If so, the 980 is the player for you.

-Bill

Well, I was originally hoping to use the 983H as a superior scaling solution. It's beginning to sound like 480i over HDMI to the 9.8's Reon will be close if not just as good. Is that correct? In that case, is there a difference between the 980 and my existing HD-A2? (Gotta find a use for it now that HD-DVD is a gonner).

mlharges, the wait is now short on the 983, just a few more weeks (hopefully). Try waiting till the 983 is released, see what it's all about, and then make an educated decision.

Probably the best route. I can be an responsible adult for that long. :D

I don't know/think the A2 does 480i, just 480p/720p/1080i, so I think you'll be much better with the 980 (for 480i over hdmi).
BTW, the A2 is still good for playing HD-DVDs ;).

I have a short question for those of you who are testing/using the 983 currently.

My display is only a 42" 768p Panasonic. If I care about SACD/DD-Audio playback and quality DVD upscaling, would I be better served with the 980, or the 983, given my relatively low pixel count.

(It should be noted that the Panasonic converts everything into 1080i before downscaling to its native resolution, so I'd be outputting/upscaling to 1080i with the player.)

I have a short question for those of you who are testing/using the 983 currently.

My display is only a 42" 768p Panasonic. If I care about SACD/DD-Audio playback and quality DVD upscaling, would I be better served with the 980, or the 983, given my relatively low pixel count.

(It should be noted that the Panasonic converts everything into 1080i before downscaling to its native resolution, so I'd be outputting/upscaling to 1080i with the player.)

Others may have a different opinion, but I would say that the 980 is the best fit for you based on the criteria you've stated.

Thank you very much for your reply, Smarty-pants.

With the recent demise of my beloved HD-DVD :( I'm thinking that I will simply go back to standard DVD with a nice upconverting player instead of spending half a kilobuck on some non BD2.0 Blu-Ray player.

Thank you very much for your reply, Smarty-pants.

With the recent demise of my beloved HD-DVD :( I'm thinking that I will simply go back to standard DVD with a nice upconverting player instead of spending half a kilobuck on some non BD2.0 Blu-Ray player.

I hear you. I can't see into the future and predict if blu-ray will ever find mass acceptance the way dvd did. If not, like you, I could be happy with this new Oppo player if it is as good as some are saying. I'd like one of the beta testers to tell me (if they can) if the 983 is a marked improvement over my Oppo 970.
Well smarty-britches? :D:D:D

hikinokie, Absolutely... YES!

hikinokie, Absolutely... YES!
Well thanks! Now it's just a matter of time........................

I have a short question for those of you who are testing/using the 983 currently.

My display is only a 42" 768p Panasonic. If I care about SACD/DD-Audio playback and quality DVD upscaling, would I be better served with the 980, or the 983, given my relatively low pixel count.

(It should be noted that the Panasonic converts everything into 1080i before downscaling to its native resolution, so I'd be outputting/upscaling to 1080i with the player.)

Why not future proof your purchase by going with the 983? Who knows, you may upgrade to an 1080p display sooner than you plan to.

And what format do you require your audio in to be in - analog, HDMI PCM, HDMI DSD, etc?

Just some thoughts.

A 1080p upgrade is completely out of the question for at least 4 years (to pay off my current stuff...).

My receiver is the Onkyo 705, I can do 7.1 discrete analog in, DSD, MPCM, anything.

Any idea when the 983 will be released? Preorder?

OppoDigital is estimating between now and the end of March... no set date.

A 1080p upgrade is completely out of the question for at least 4 years (to pay off my current stuff...).

Well, I bought a Panny RP91 over six years ago. It was the best bang for the buck I could obtain at the time for my budget. It still works as well as it did new, or, actually even better with a firmware upgrade. It has taken almost as long for reasonably priced DVD/DVD-A players to significantly improve. I've also upgraded displays twice now. Given that experience, I think I'll go for the 983 as it'll probably be the last DVD/DVD-A/SACD player I'll need.

Like I said, just some food for thought.

I think I'll go for the 983 as it'll probably be the last DVD/DVD-A/SACD player I'll need.


Same here.

Your tv is sooo good, you don't need to spend ANOTHER premium price on the 983 for video quality. The 980 should serve you well. If, when the 983 streets, you should want it because of OTHER features, then you may want to consider it then... but as for pure PQ, the 980/Pioneer combo should be pretty awesome.

Are you saying that the 980 via 480i HDMI into the Kuro (mine's 1080p, by the way) will look just as good (or better) as using the 983? If that's true, I would love to save the money! I just haven't heard this opinion before, and given the quality of my TV, it makes sense to me to get the absolute most I can out of SD DVDs into it. Thanks!

oppo goes Blu
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/02/20/oppo-next-to-create-a-new-blu-ray-player/
I'll get a 980 and wait for this one.

Great news! Thanks Rmassey. After years of experience with standard DVD OPPO has taken quite a while to come out with this swansong model. I hope it's not too difficult to add Blu Ray to the design of the 983. I suggest we email OPPO and congratulate them on the decision to go Blu Ray, and to keep ALL of the positive standard DVD features of the 983.

I want the best of both worlds and am willing to pay for it.

Wow - nice to hear.

oppo goes Blu
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/02/20/oppo-next-to-create-a-new-blu-ray-player/
I'll get a 980 and wait for this one.

You may have to wait a long time. :) And with that, let's stick to the 983.

larry

You may have to wait a long time. :) And with that, let's stick to the 983.

larry

Amen!

Will the 983 have any tint (color) and brightness controls?

http://www.stereophile.com/musicintheround/108mitr/

If the Integra is doing room EQ on a DSD source, it's converting the signal to PCM first....or at the very least, some form of PCM-like, >1 bit 'DSD wide' rather than 'native' DSD.

That said, I consider all this fuss about PCM @ 88.1/24 versus DSD rather silly, as I seriously doubt anyone could tell the difference between the two in a blind comparison -- assuming the system matches levels of the two formats, which the Integra/Oppo combo apparently did not.

FWIW, I use an Oppo 970/Pioneer74txvi combo via HDMI, and would only consider the 983 for its PQ upgrade at this point.

You may have to wait a long time. :) And with that, let's stick to the 983.

My comment was related to the buy a 980 vs 983 discussion. The Oppo Blu announcement tips the scale for *me* to buy a 980 and wait... and yes it'll be a while, but it'll most likely be done right and maybe, just maybe we will see the first and only truly universal (DVD-A/SACD/BD) player.

Now back to the 983 discussion....

You may have to wait a long time. :) And with that, let's stick to the 983.

*cough* Especially with OPPO's track record of releasing gear late in order to shoe horn as much as they can. *cough*

Will the 983 have any tint (color) and brightness controls?

Yes.

Smarty Pants: "Your tv is sooo good, you don't need to spend ANOTHER premium price on the 983 for video quality. The 980 should serve you well."

Would the logic be reversed? That with a great TV, one could appreciate the benefits of the 983 even more?

Thanks!

Smarty Pants: "Your tv is sooo good, you don't need to spend ANOTHER premium price on the 983 for video quality. The 980 should serve you well."

Would the logic be reversed? That with a great TV, one could appreciate the benefits of the 983 even more?

Thanks!

As long as it's a high quality 1080p panel, a larger tv set (bigger than 42", or a projector. This is my opinion only...;).
If your tv has high quality scaling capabilities built into the tv, then the 983 is a pretty hard pill to swallow if you don't have money to burn. Again, IMHO.

*cough* Especially with OPPO's track record of releasing gear late in order to shoe horn as much as they can. *cough*

Wait a minute here. Are you suggesting that the 983 may contain a little something "extra" when it's released? I heard that there was a possibility that there could be an additional decal on the Oppo, but I in no way thought it would be THAT decal. I mean, is it possible for them to add additional technology of that magnitude this late in the 983's develpoment? I hope you understand what I'm talking about here, because I think I understand what you're hinting at in the above post. If what you're saying is indeed plausible or true, I'll stand in line for the pre-order RIGHT NOW.:D

Wait a minute here. Are you suggesting that the 983 may contain a little something "extra" when it's released? I heard that there was a possibility that there could be an additional decal on the Oppo, but I in no way thought it would be THAT decal. I mean, is it possible for them to add additional technology of that magnitude this late in the 983's develpoment? I hope you understand what I'm talking about here, because I think I understand what you're hinting at in the above post. If what you're saying is indeed plausible or true, I'll stand in line for the pre-order RIGHT NOW.:D

It's an SD-DVD player, nothing more, if that helps. But even within that frame, there are always new features that people want.

-Bill

It's an SD-DVD player, nothing more, if that helps. But even within that frame, there are always new features that people want.

-Bill

Ok, I understand.:o

Or that it will output only PCM from SACDs? :rolleyes:

Kal, regarding using one of the Oppos for SACD, I thought that, in your review of the 980 used with the Integra, you stated that you preferred the sound of SACD converted to PCM in the Oppo 980 rather than that of signals sent to the Integra from the Oppo as "pure" DSD SACD. If so, what difference would it make whether or not the 963 (or other HDMI 1.2+ players) is capable of outputting SACD as DSD? Am I missing something?

Jim

Smarty-pants, do you still feel the same if the priority is PAL? I'm Australian and I also have a 50" KURO ( not 1080p ) and I am reasonably happy with the upscaling of my PS3 with this screen but I need multi region as about 30% of my SD-DVD's are NTSC. Anyone else have an opinion on this? Should I just go for the 980?

OppoDigital is estimating between now and the end of March... no set date.

Thanks, I ended up ordering a 980 Yesterday to use with my VP50 since I finally caught up on this thread and no appreciable audio improvments over the 980 and now that they are building a Bluray player, that will be my next addition.

Jim

Kal, regarding using one of the Oppos for SACD, I thought that, in your review of the 980 used with the Integra, you stated that you preferred the sound of SACD converted to PCM in the Oppo 980 rather than that of signals sent to the Integra from the Oppo as "pure" DSD SACD. If so, what difference would it make whether or not the 963 (or other HDMI 1.2+ players) is capable of outputting SACD as DSD? Am I missing something?JimYou are not missing anything. In that particular context, that was my preference. It might not be generalizable.

That said, I consider all this fuss about PCM @ 88.1/24 versus DSD rather silly, as I seriously doubt anyone could tell the difference between the two in a blind comparison -- assuming the system matches levels of the two formats, which the Integra/Oppo combo apparently did not.You can adjust the levels to match pretty easily and that is what I did. OTOH, I did not (and rarely do) blind tests.

Smarty-pants, do you still feel the same if the priority is PAL? I'm Australian and I also have a 50" KURO ( not 1080p ) and I am reasonably happy with the upscaling of my PS3 with this screen but I need multi region as about 30% of my SD-DVD's are NTSC. Anyone else have an opinion on this? Should I just go for the 980?

That IS a tough one my friend. PAL performance in the 981 and 983 is better in than the 980. I say just go for it and get the 983. You may be ok with the 981. I have no real experience with the 981 model though. I have owned all models except that one.
Anyone else have any tips for him??... Kal?... Neuro...?

You may want to send Oppo an email inquiring as well. They should have some good advice for you.

That IS a tough one my friend. PAL performance in the 981 and 983 is better in than the 980. I say just go for it and get the 983. You may be ok with the 981. I have no real experience with the 981 model though. I have owned all models except that one.
Anyone else have any tips for him??... Kal?... Neuro...?

As I may have mentioned before, the 981 is not too good for hybrid PAL material, as the Faroudja deinterlacer does a terrible job of detecting the transitions from 2:2 film to video. It also stumbles badly whenever film and video content are mixed in the same frame (e.g., video captions overlayed on film, or film chromakeyed onto video). Plus I think you may lose some horizontal resolution when pillarboxing 4:3 material on a widescreen display in 16:9/Auto mode (though I don't believe this is the Faroudja's fault).

If your PAL discs are exclusively anamorphic film, and if the Faroudja macroblocking/green push is not a problem with your display, then I suspect the 983 would offer little added benefit.

You can adjust the levels to match pretty easily and that is what I did. OTOH, I did not (and rarely do) blind tests.

Level-matched DSD vs PCM output of SACD to within 0.2 dB? I'd love to know an easy way to do verify it, that doesn't involve test tones and a voltmeter at the speaker terminals...so I'm all ears (or rather, eyes).

I realize that Stereophile rarely if ever has its reviewers do blind comparisons, but one always holds out hope. ;)

Blind tests have their own biases. I prefer a subjective opinion after months of using a product. Every piece of gear I own revealed it's true character over time.

Blind tests have their own biases. I prefer a subjective opinion after months of using a product. Every piece of gear I own revealed it's true character over time.

Hmmm, I think I would lean towards that theory too.

Level-matched DSD vs PCM output of SACD to within 0.2 dB? I'd love to know an easy way to do verify it, that doesn't involve test tones and a voltmeter at the speaker terminals...so I'm all ears (or rather, eyes).

I realize that Stereophile rarely if ever has its reviewers do blind comparisons, but one always holds out hope. ;)

I agree, double blind is best. No subjective B.S. need apply. Reviews should cover features, usability, quality. But for performance double blind testing and quantitative data rule.

Blind tests have their own biases. I prefer a subjective opinion after months of using a product. Every piece of gear I own revealed it's true character over time.

It's still easy to be fooled after months of use. That's just human nature. And the only 'bias' a blind test has, if properly done, is that it presumes that real difference can still be heard when the listener uses his ears, without
foreknowledge of identity.

Blind tests do not at all preclude using the product for months first. So, why not months of using a product or products ...THEN a blind comparison? Surely it would be easy to verify the 'true character' then?

Hmmm, I think I would lean towards that theory too.

You can't get around basic human psychology, no matter how many months of use are logged. That basic human pschology is that we are easily confounded by conscious and unconscious biases in our preferences, and in our ability to discriminate small audio difference between products.

But I digress. There may be a real, audible difference between the Oppos' DSD/DSD-->PCM output, even when set up and connected properly. Absent some measurements and/or blind tests, I'm going to remain skeptical.

Level-matched DSD vs PCM output of SACD to within 0.2 dB? I'd love to know an easy way to do verify it, that doesn't involve test tones and a voltmeter at the speaker terminals...so I'm all ears (or rather, eyes).Sorry. It does involve test tones and voltmeters but not at the speaker terminals since the amps are not changed.

I realize that Stereophile rarely if ever has its reviewers do blind comparisons, but one always holds out hope. ;)Be my guest: go on hoping.:D

An external box can do customized resolutions. For example, the common 1366 x 768p. I don't believe the 983 will be able to do this (but I wish it would! :) ). So there's some extra flexibility with an external processor.

I searched this thread using "768p" as the keyword and none of the insiders commented on 983's ability (or otherwise) to output this resolution.

Is the ability to output a few "custom" resolutions such as 1366x768 difficult to implement in a DVD player using ABT 1018? I imagine these custom settings might be different for different 768p displays.

It would be sweet for those of us who have older PDP models...

Pleaaaaase...

I currently have the 981 and while the picture is pretty good, im not crazy about the green tint it has. I have been pondering if I want to get the 983 or wait till summer or so when some new BD players come out. I, like many others have tons of SD-DVDs and I guess my question would mabey be to someone that has seen the 983 in action. My question is this, I have a 42" LCD 1080p TV, I sit roughly 7 feet mabey 8 from it. Is the difference between the 983 and a blu-ray player going to be so dramatic that I will feel i'm missing out on Hi-Def? Also I dont even watch more than a movie or two a week so it's hard to justify 30.00 for movies when i can get SD-DVDs of the same title for under 10.00. Thanks for any input.

I currently have the 981 and while the picture is pretty good, im not crazy about the green tint it has. I have been pondering if I want to get the 983 or wait till summer or so when some new BD players come out. I, like many others have tons of SD-DVDs and I guess my question would mabey be to someone that has seen the 983 in action. My question is this, I have a 42" LCD 1080p TV, I sit roughly 7 feet mabey 8 from it. Is the difference between the 983 and a blu-ray player going to be so dramatic that I will feel i'm missing out on Hi-Def? Also I dont even watch more than a movie or two a week so it's hard to justify 30.00 for movies when i can get SD-DVDs of the same title for under 10.00. Thanks for any input.

The dif between the 983 and 981 will not be THAT dramatic in your scenario. You should be able to get rid of most of that green push with proper calibration. The major differences in PQ between the 983 and the 980/981, is going to show up on big screens... like projection size.

I searched this thread using "768p" as the keyword and none of the insiders commented on 983's ability (or otherwise) to output this resolution.

Is the ability to output a few "custom" resolutions such as 1366x768 difficult to implement in a DVD player using ABT 1018? I imagine these custom settings might be different for different 768p displays.

It would be sweet for those of us who have older PDP models...

Pleaaaaase...

The is no information available to the general public regarding custom resolutions on the 983.

So does anyone have like a 981 and a blu-ray player to compare the picture quality difference on a 42" set? I mainly want the 983 to get rid of the green push i think the picture quality is pretty damn good sometimes I have been blown away by PQ on my set with upconverted 1080P but how huge of a difference is there between SD and Blu on a 42" screen if they are both 1080p? My two choices right now are to get a 983 or wait till summer to get a more up to date bd player. Thanks again.

The is no information available to the general public regarding custom resolutions on the 983.

So there is hope...(albeit slim).;)

That would make a cool little universal scaler for under $400.

Drool.

OK, thanks for the answers guys. I will ask Oppo Smarty-pants but I'll also continue to wait for the 983 to hit the streets and see what people have to say then.

Blind tests have their own biases. I prefer a subjective opinion after months of using a product. Every piece of gear I own revealed it's true character over time.

This has been my experience as well.

It's interesting how we can go into a discussion of Double blind testing but when I briefly mention the announced Oppo BD player I get...

...and with that, let's stick to the 983.

I can handle either or discussion myself, but a bit more tolerance would be my preference. Especially since there is nothing else to talk about here while waiting for the 983 to be released.

Just a thought... :cool:

There's no need cluttering this thread with OPPO BD player discussion. There's already a thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997188) about that.

This thread reminds me of that old tv show called " Whats my line"

There's no need cluttering this thread with OPPO BD player discussion. There's already a thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997188) about that.

And that thread has been closed.

And that thread has been closed.

I sweet talked Larry into re-opening it ;):). As long as people don't get stupid, and try to keep it to "technical" talk (in AVS tradition), then it may stay open now. If people clutter it up with nonsense, then it may get closed again.

Cool... the Oppo BR thread has a shot at beating out this 983 thread for longest duration from it's start till the product in customers hands... :) Sweet

[Prev.Quote]Originally Posted by Jim Cate View Post
Kal, regarding using one of the Oppos for SACD, I thought that, in your review of the 980 used with the Integra, you stated that you preferred the sound of SACD converted to PCM in the Oppo 980 rather than that of signals sent to the Integra from the Oppo as "pure" DSD SACD. If so, what difference would it make whether or not the 963 (or other HDMI 1.2+ players) is capable of outputting SACD as DSD? Am I missing something?Jim

You are not missing anything. In that particular context, that was my preference. It might not be generalizable.

As understood, very few receivers or pre/pros (such as the Onkyo and Integra AVRs and pre/pros) are capable of receiving and processing SACD received in DSD format (converting it to PCM internally). But apparently the major improvement ("breakthrough") observed in your review seemed to be the ability of the Integra to receive SACD from the Oppo in either digital form (in either DSD or PCM) via HDMI, permitting the SACD/PCM signals to be processed in the Integra without the D-A-D conversion process. As understood, several other AVRs/pre-pros (in addition to the Onkyos, Integras, Sony, etc.) are capable of receiving and processing signals in digital form. If so, could they be used in combination with the Oppo 980 (or 983) to receive and process SACD received from the Oppo in PCM format to achieve the same beneficial results you observed? For example, would the Denons, NADs, or others with HDMI 1.2 capability and internal signal processing (such as the Audessey) provide the same functional advantages?

(I have been seriously considering getting one of the Onkyos or Integras, but there seem to be lots of reports of glitches that should have been worked out. - Almost like a preliminary beta release. )

Thanks,
Jim

There's no need cluttering this thread with OPPO BD player discussion. There's already a thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997188) about that.
as I am sure DB testing is being discussed elsewhere too :rolleyes:

How many centuries will it be before they start selling this thing?

If it takes this long to bring out an upscaling DVD player then the universe might end by the time Oppo brings out a Blue-Ray player!

What is better about the Oppo 83--actually using it or talking about how great it might be?

Sometimes I think that some people here anticipate the Oppo 83 more than virgin adolescent boys anticipate sex!

So does anyone have like a 981 and a blu-ray player to compare the picture quality difference on a 42" set? I mainly want the 983 to get rid of the green push i think the picture quality is pretty damn good sometimes I have been blown away by PQ on my set with upconverted 1080P but how huge of a difference is there between SD and Blu on a 42" screen if they are both 1080p? My two choices right now are to get a 983 or wait till summer to get a more up to date bd player. Thanks again.
Well, I've got a 981 and a PS3 FOR BD. Understand that I'm comparing the two on a 60" KURO, so my observations won't be the same as your on a 42" set.

But, BD has more detail, sharper image, and of course, uncompressed sound (via LPCM and Dolby True). It really depends on how well the SD DVD was mastered, though. I well mastered DVD on the OPPO comes relatively close to the BD. A poorly mastered DVD on the OPPO won't get nearly as close.

That said, a poorly done BD isn't going to win any awards whether it's played on the OPPO or a BD player.

Probably the most stunning difference regarding PQ is Planet Earth on SD DVD and BD. The differences are quite apparent between the two. Much more "POP" on the BD version.

Again, how noticeable those differences are on a 42" screen is something I can't comment on. They certainly are on a 60" screen, though.

As understood, very few receivers or pre/pros (such as the Onkyo and Integra AVRs and pre/pros) are capable of receiving and processing SACD received in DSD format (converting it to PCM internally). But apparently the major improvement ("breakthrough") observed in your review seemed to be the ability of the Integra to receive SACD from the Oppo in either digital form (in either DSD or PCM) via HDMI, permitting the SACD/PCM signals to be processed in the Integra without the D-A-D conversion process. As understood, several other AVRs/pre-pros (in addition to the Onkyos, Integras, Sony, etc.) are capable of receiving and processing signals in digital form. If so, could they be used in combination with the Oppo 980 (or 983) to receive and process SACD received from the Oppo in PCM format to achieve the same beneficial results you observed? For example, would the Denons, NADs, or others with HDMI 1.2 capability and internal signal processing (such as the Audessey) provide the same functional advantages? Probably but I have not yet used any, so I cannot state so. AFAIK, the new higher-end Denons, Integras and Onkyos have all the CODECs but the NAD may only accept PCM, albeit at hi-rez. You will have to research that.

(I have been seriously considering getting one of the Onkyos or Integras, but there seem to be lots of reports of glitches that should have been worked out. - Almost like a preliminary beta release. )I have done only one update on the 9.8 and it was pretty easy.

I thank you for your comparison of bd to oppo upconvert. I dont really know if there would be a huge difference on a 42" between the two especially since I dont watch tons of movies anyhow and its hard going from paying 5 dollars a movie to 30 for something i likely wont watch more than once a year if that. I think ill just stick to the 983 till they give me no choice but to buy blu-ray.

When the Blu-Ray is connected to a 1080/24 display the difference between that and an upscaled 480 DVD is HUGE. The size of the display isn't as important as the way motion looks at 24 frames, or it's multiples. Motorhead, if your TV is 1080p/24, run, don't walk to buy a Blu Ray player.

When the Blu-Ray is connected to a 1080/24 display the difference between that and an upscaled 480 DVD is HUGE. The size of the display isn't as important as the way motion looks at 24 frames, or it's multiples. Motorhead, if your TV is 1080p/24, run, don't walk to buy a Blu Ray player.
No question that Blu-ray looks much better than DVD, but with something like the Pioneer Kuro plasmas PureCinema mode DVDs look pretty darn good with 3:3 pulldown at 72 fps.

I agree miiata, but when you see a 1080p source to a 1080p/24 TV it's like your eyeball is on the camera, just amazing. (Assuming the transfer is good.)

Not to beat a dead horse, but I spoke to Oppo today about the differences between the 980 vs the 983 on FILM-based DVD. In essence, I was told the differences are going to be very, very slim even on a 60" display like mine (SXRD 60A3000). For those of you who have gotten an early 983 and have been testing it against the 980 (any new comparisons Neuro?) I'd be curious to hear your thoughts about the differences with these two units for film. The thing is, I don't watch a lot of SD DVD anymore, but still want a very good presentation when I do (and it's always film-based material). My current video player is a Panasonic BD30 which is great for BD, but not too good for SD DVD.

Not to beat a dead horse, but I spoke to Oppo today about the differences between the 980 vs the 983 on FILM-based DVD. In essence, I was told the differences are going to be very, very slim even on a 60" display like mine (SXRD 60A3000). For those of you who have gotten an early 983 and have been testing it against the 980 (any new comparisons Neuro?) I'd be curious to hear your thoughts about the differences with these two units for film. The thing is, I don't watch a lot of SD DVD anymore, but still want a very good presentation when I do (and it's always film-based material). My current video player is a Panasonic BD30 which is great for BD, but not too good for SD DVD.

Do you have a 980? If so, do you like the picture it produces?

Do you have a 980? If so, do you like the picture it produces?

I've never tried a 980. I was able to demo a Sony 77H which supposedly uses the same chipset, but that player suffered from YC delay, excessive ringing, clipping, etc. However, even so, it surpassed the BD30 and I'm sure the 980 doesn't have those issues and would be better implemented.

I used to have a 970, but that was on a different display/technology. I'm told the 980 uses an improved Mediatek chipset from that unit. However, at the time, I had a Denon 2930CI (Reon) and it clearly out did the 970 even for film.

I can't believe that - although its an honest response from Oppo !

My PS3 gives a better upscaled image than my 980

I'd expect a XA2 to give a better picture than PS3 from forum comments, and a 983 a touch above that

Not to beat a dead horse, but I spoke to Oppo today about the differences between the 980 vs the 983 on FILM-based DVD. In essence, I was told the differences are going to be very, very slim even on a 60" display like mine (SXRD 60A3000). For those of you who have gotten an early 983 and have been testing it against the 980 (any new comparisons Neuro?) I'd be curious to hear your thoughts about the differences with these two units for film. The thing is, I don't watch a lot of SD DVD anymore, but still want a very good presentation when I do (and it's always film-based material). My current video player is a Panasonic BD30 which is great for BD, but not too good for SD DVD.

I can't believe that - although its an honest response from Oppo !

My PS3 gives a better upscaled image than my 980

I'd expect a XA2 to give a better picture than PS3 from forum comments, and a 983 a touch above that

I have been thinking along the very same lines. So those thoughts and the fact that I enjoy a decent percentage of my SD DVDs as Video (TV show sets, etc) based I'm still waiting. Although recently have wondered if I should have just ordered a 980 a while ago.

Not to beat a dead horse, but I spoke to Oppo today about the differences between the 980 vs the 983 on FILM-based DVD. In essence, I was told the differences are going to be very, very slim even on a 60" display like mine (SXRD 60A3000).

I'll let you know. I just got a 983 for review and I also have a 980 hooked up to a 60A3000. While I'll probably be using the 983 with a JVC RS1 projector (which currently has a 981 hooked up to it), I can check out the 60A3000 as well.

I've never tried a 980. I was able to demo a Sony 77H which supposedly uses the same chipset, but that player suffered from YC delay, excessive ringing, clipping, etc. However, even so, it surpassed the BD30 and I'm sure the 980 doesn't have those issues and would be better implemented.

I used to have a 970, but that was on a different display/technology. I'm told the 980 uses an improved Mediatek chipset from that unit. However, at the time, I had a Denon 2930CI (Reon) and it clearly out did the 970 even for film.

Well David, I don't quite know what you are looking for. If you want the best bang for your buck for SD-dvd, then the 983 is it. When I say that, I am comparing the 983 to HIGH END players. The 980 is a very good player too. Maybe just wait and see what others say. The 983 should be here soon... finally. :)

I'll let you know. I just got a 983 for review and I also have a 980 hooked up to a 60A3000. While I'll probably be using the 983 with a JVC RS1 projector (which currently has a 981 hooked up to it), I can check out the 60A3000 as well.

I'd love to hear your findings between the 980 and 983 on the 60A3000. Nothing like hearing the results from someone with the same display. Thanks.

I'll let you know. I just got a 983 for review and I also have a 980 hooked up to a 60A3000. While I'll probably be using the 983 with a JVC RS1 projector (which currently has a 981 hooked up to it), I can check out the 60A3000 as well.

Mike, can you post some pictures of the 983. I am also interested in any picture differences between the 980 vs 983 on your 60A3000 as I have the 60A2020. Thanks.

This has probably already been posted here, but if anyone could summarize, I'd appreciate it. So if the 983 is only slightly better than the 980 for film based material, for video-sourced material, more improvement? And then I remember comments about PAL between the 980 vs 983? And analog audio, very similar between the two? Sorry about rehashing, but I was out of the market for the 983 and just skimming the thread, but now since HD DVD is dead, and I'm thinking the BD folks will now keep prices artificially high for a while, I'm now thinking the 983 could replace my 980H as my last best SD DVD player. :)

Not to beat a dead horse, but I spoke to Oppo today about the differences between the 980 vs the 983 on FILM-based DVD. In essence, I was told the differences are going to be very, very slim even on a 60" display like mine (SXRD 60A3000). For those of you who have gotten an early 983 and have been testing it against the 980 (any new comparisons Neuro?) I'd be curious to hear your thoughts about the differences with these two units for film. The thing is, I don't watch a lot of SD DVD anymore, but still want a very good presentation when I do (and it's always film-based material). My current video player is a Panasonic BD30 which is great for BD, but not too good for SD DVD.


If that is the case, why would you pay almost $200 more for it? Not being smart, just curious.

EDIT: I have a Sharp DW-100 @ 1080i btw on a Da-Lite 92" diag screen.

This has probably already been posted here, but if anyone could summarize, I'd appreciate it. So if the 983 is only slightly better than the 980 for film based material, for video-sourced material, more improvement? And then I remember comments about PAL between the 980 vs 983? And analog audio, very similar between the two? Sorry about rehashing, but I was out of the market for the 983 and just skimming the thread, but now since HD DVD is dead, and I'm thinking the BD folks will now keep prices artificially high for a while, I'm now thinking the 983 could replace my 980H as my last best SD DVD player. :)

Kevin, what do you want to accomplish with your dvd player? What type of display do you have and what is it's native resolution as well as size?

If that is the case, why would you pay almost $200 more for it? Not being smart, just curious.

EDIT: I have a Sharp DW-100 @ 1080i btw on a Da-Lite 92" diag screen.

I wouldn't buy the 983 if the differences are actually that small. However, if they aren't...

This waiting & waiting & waiting is really becoming a joke! Its been nearly six months since this thread was started & still nothing! Oppo arent doing themselves any favours what so ever with the 983 ( not to mention all the other consumers who have paid good money for the 980 only to be lied to regarding their firmware update). I know of 2 people who have had enough of the run around & purchased a HD player with upscaling abilities & im about to go down that road myself.
I read a few pages back that Oppo have something like 5 employees ... is this another joke?? EMPLOY MORE STAFF!!! I get the feeling from the comments on here that anyone with inside information/testing abilities on this player thinks their **** doesnt stink & are so privilaged to be part of some illusive tight packed cult or something (with 5 employees). This is'nt NASA/rocket science people, we're talking a DVD player here, give me a break already ! They have 1 week or lose my $.

Damn Mr Man, much ado about nothing. Tired of waiting, buy something else, "we're only talking a DVD player here" after all. As for OPPO, they've been an exemplary company to me and so many AVS members for something like three years now. Is any company perfect, of course not, but OPPO's bent over backward to accommodate thousands of satisfied customers. Perhaps you should give THEM a break ;)

I'm happily using my 981 until the 983 is out and then I'll retire the 981 to the bedroom. Good luck with whatever you choose.

Gimme-a-break, Gimme-a-break, break me off a piece o' that Kit Kat Barr.

Perhaps you should give THEM a break ;)


What, all 5 of them LOL. I can appreciate what your saying but come-on enough is enough. Maybe thats why I am slightly ticked, because up until now Oppo have been so great, but its all going down hill very fast. I notice a Oppo BD player thread has started with comments on there that we might see one of those in 08 aswell.. LOL at this rate try 2017. Please dont get me wrong im not here to put a damper on a potentialy excellent product (983) i would just like to see it before the format becomes obsolete. Afterall like we both said its just a DVD player.What gives.

Gimme-a-break, Gimme-a-break, break me off a piece o' that Kit Kat Barr.

Is that suppose to be funny? With a name like that surely you can come up with something better, my five year old niece is funnier. And no the crickets comment wasn't funny either.

Gimme-a-break, Gimme-a-break, break me off a piece o' that Kit Kat Barr.

LOL, this made my day!!!thanks!

Sarcasm is bliss!

Something tells me their Bluray player won't be ready for Christmas.

Oppo has estimated a tentative street date for the 983 to be the middle to end of March. We are almost there Mr Man, don't bail now, you're too close. They are working on making the product the best it can be BEFORE it gets in the hands of the consumers. You probably wouldn't want to pay as much as this player is going to cost, and then turn around and have a unit full of glitches like all the HDM players, would you? Do you not think Oppo would like to have had this player out sooner?? Of course they would, but that is heinsight. It really isn't about how many employees there are. You'd be surprised (maybe) to know just how many employees work on one given project for Pioneer, Marantz, or whatever company. Those places have SO MANY employees because of having many, many products... marketing agents, customer service, ect... Oppo doesn't need all those people. Oppo doesn't have the beurocracy that other companies have, which is one of the reasons why they are successful.
When is the last time you called or e-mailed about a product and customer service had an answer, I mean a REAL answer for you in less than 24 hours, most of the time less.
Mr Man, you love Oppo. You may think you know why, but the real reason is because of the whole package. It seems to good to be true. Great products at affordable prices, top notch customer service... it all seems too good to be true, but it's not. Oppo has taken things back to basics, back to the times of actually caring about the products that go into customers hands as well as trying their absolute best to make sure all those customers are satisfied. Don't you want to stay with a company like that? Don't you want to be a part of something great. No, no one here is curing cancer of course. We're all here for our passion of audio and vidio. Why?... because it makes us feel good. It takes our emotions and shows us why we're human. Even on another realm, it can take us to places that we can usually only dream of. Getting lost in a movie is one of my favorite past times. Oppo makes those times better. They keep making better products to make those times more enjoyable. They take their time to do it RIGHT.
Soon it will be done, and you ALL can enjoy this wonderful player that you have anticipated for so long. The last SD player that you'll ever need. We're almost there. Just a little more patience... :)

That was quick but you are right, & this is exactly why I have held out unlike my unpatient friends.
I just hope the 'middle to end of march' doesnt mean March 31, but I can see it happening. I realise Oppo doesnt have the products on the go like those other companies you mention but if a product is behind schedule & im assuming the 983 is, wouldnt having more hands on deck speed up the process (also considering developments on the 980 have been put on hold *unfairly??*). Maybe this is not the case, maybe the 983 is not behind schedule & maybe this thread/information was leaked way too prematurely (& may the wrath of conan the barbarian be put on that person) but whateva the case, i really hope its sooner rather that later.

I've had too many Denon, Sony and Pioneer products that had flaws that were never addressed until the next model and then they usually eliminated something I liked about the previous model. Now THAT'S frustrating. Once OPPO comes out with a product it's already better deigned than most players and they remain with it through as many firmware revisions as it takes to get it right. I'm already thinking about replacing the 983 with their "984 BluRay", as long as it does everything else as well as the 983 does.

That was quick but you are right, & this is exactly why I have held out unlike my unpatient friends.
I just hope the 'middle to end of march' doesnt mean March 31, but I can see it happening. I realise Oppo doesnt have the products on the go like those other companies you mention but if a product is behind schedule & im assuming the 983 is wouldnt having more hands on deck speed up the process (also considering developments on the 980 have been put on hold *unfairly??*). Maybe this is not the case, maybe the 983 is not behind schedule & maybe this thread/information was leaked too prematurely (& may the wrath of conan the barbarian be put on that person) but whateva the case, i really hope its sooner rather that later.

I do agree that the 983 plans were leaked WAY to early, thus bringing torture to all those in waiting. In combination, the player is actually very behind schedule. The player has given Oppo a very hard time trying to incorperate EVERY feature that "the people" are crying for. That exact point is what makes puting together a TRUE universal player so difficult.
980 out on hold unfairly... no, IMO the 980 can be enjoyed as-is and any firmware revisions should be considered a plus. That's just my opinion though.
Hey, just pretend the street date is April. Then you can be totally shocked when it comes out a week or two early. :p;):cool::D

That was quick but you are right, & this is exactly why I have held out unlike my unpatient friends.
I just hope the 'middle to end of march' doesnt mean March 31, but I can see it happening. I realise Oppo doesnt have the products on the go like those other companies you mention but if a product is behind schedule & im assuming the 983 is, wouldnt having more hands on deck speed up the process (also considering developments on the 980 have been put on hold *unfairly??*). Maybe this is not the case, maybe the 983 is not behind schedule & maybe this thread/information was leaked way too prematurely (& may the wrath of conan the barbarian be put on that person) but whateva the case, i really hope its sooner rather that later.

More hands on deck doesn't always equate to getting the best results. Good engineering just takes time. If you aren't happy with the production time of a human child, putting 9 women on the job isn't going to get you a kid in a month.

When it comes to designing and building a product: GOOD, CHEAP, SOON... You can have any 2 of the 3.

I have a Pioneer Elite 60" Kuro & am looking for a universal DVD player to play PAL anamorphic DVDs from the UK.

Basically I'm just buying anamorphic version of DVDs from the U.K. that aren't anamorphic here in the U.S.

What Oppo would you recommend since I'll mainly be using it to play PAL discs that are anamorphic on my Pioneer Elite Kuro Plasma.

I have a Toshiba HD-XA2 for upconverting standard U.S. DVDs.

I'd like to get the best picture quality player to play the PAL discs.

Should I wait for the 983 or what is the best Oppo or any DVD player for picture quality on PAL anamorphic standard DVDs?

If you aren't happy with the production time of a human child, putting 9 women on the job isn't going to get you a kid in a month.



Somehow I dont think that analogy quite works the same way, but I know what you mean.;) Maybe theres just not enough room around the work-bench.:rolleyes:

This waiting & waiting & waiting is really becoming a joke! Its been nearly six months since this thread was started & still nothing! Oppo arent doing themselves any favours what so ever with the 983 ( not to mention all the other consumers who have paid good money for the 980 only to be lied to regarding their firmware update). I know of 2 people who have had enough of the run around & purchased a HD player with upscaling abilities & im about to go down that road myself.
I read a few pages back that Oppo have something like 5 employees ... is this another joke?? EMPLOY MORE STAFF!!! I get the feeling from the comments on here that anyone with inside information/testing abilities on this player thinks their **** doesnt stink & are so privilaged to be part of some illusive tight packed cult or something (with 5 employees). This is'nt NASA/rocket science people, we're talking a DVD player here, give me a break already ! They have 1 week or lose my $.

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

It is a Chinese company, much bigger than 5.

What would be nice and address everyone's concerns is an official press release posted on Oppo's web site that announced the pending arrival of the 983 and the date it will be released plus its specifications. If they would do that, then we all would not need to speculate and get all worked up over this player. Instead, we would continue discussing its capabilities and etc. Really, Oppo at this point should do that as their many loyal fans have been patiently waiting for nearly 6 months for this player to be launched. As for me, timing could not be better. I hope to have a new Plasma TV in April or May and you can't just buy a new TV without a brand spanking new DVD player like say Oppo 983 to go along with it. :-) Where would Hans be without his Franz? OK, I got to get back to work now.

I've been one of the people patiently waiting for 6 months or however long for the 983. In fact, I've had $340 cash literally in an envelope in my dresser reserved for it. I've pretty much decided to spend that money on a PS3 instead. I think that Oppo is a fantastic company and I love my 980. I have no bones to pick with them at all. I know that Oppo will probably not give us much lead time and start shipping the players a week after they make an announcement-they could be just around the corner for all I know. Still, we haven't heard anything new and it could be another 6 months (doubtful, I know). Not that Oppo has lost my business in the larger sense but, for now, I'm just moving on. The PS3 will let me do bigger and different, not just the same but better. I'm okay with that. And I can buy it now.

I have a Pioneer Elite 60" Kuro & am looking for a universal DVD player to play PAL anamorphic DVDs from the UK.

Basically I'm just buying anamorphic version of DVDs from the U.K. that aren't anamorphic here in the U.S.

What Oppo would you recommend since I'll mainly be using it to play PAL discs that are anamorphic on my Pioneer Elite Kuro Plasma.

I have a Toshiba HD-XA2 for upconverting standard U.S. DVDs.

I'd like to get the best picture quality player to play the PAL discs.

Should I wait for the 983 or what is the best Oppo or any DVD player for picture quality on PAL anamorphic standard DVDs?

You could hack your XA2 to play and upconvert anamorphic PAL discs.

Instructions here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=988167

I've been one of the people patiently waiting for 6 months or however long for the 983. In fact, I've had $340 cash literally in an envelope in my dresser reserved for it. I've pretty much decided to spend that money on a PS3 instead. I think that Oppo is a fantastic company and I love my 980. I have no bones to pick with them at all. I know that Oppo will probably not give us much lead time and start shipping the players a week after they make an announcement-they could be just around the corner for all I know. Still, we haven't heard anything new and it could be another 6 months (doubtful, I know). Not that Oppo has lost my business in the larger sense but, for now, I'm just moving on. The PS3 will let me do bigger and different, not just the same but better. I'm okay with that. And I can buy it now.

Obviously you haven't been reading this thread. Oppo has stated the 983 should be available somtime in March... just a few weeks from now.

any reviews

Mike, can you post some pictures of the 983.

I will as soon as I'm allowed to. ;)

I will as soon as I'm allowed to. ;)

Even modest psychic powers would reveal a flat black box very much like other flat black boxes.

-Bill

If OPPO were to make a March ship date. That means all the software has been written- by now and all the OEM have hardware parts in the bins. Because if they were to start physically slapping software & hardware into Chasy today. I would think it would take at least 3 weeks to just manufacture,box&ship[by sea] into USA and then to Mountain View. So the features/spec have to be on ink by now. So why don't they release them?
db

This waiting & waiting & waiting is really becoming a joke! Its been nearly six months since this thread was started & still nothing! Oppo arent doing themselves any favours what so ever with the 983 ( not to mention all the other consumers who have paid good money for the 980 only to be lied to regarding their firmware update). I know of 2 people who have had enough of the run around & purchased a HD player with upscaling abilities & im about to go down that road myself.
I read a few pages back that Oppo have something like 5 employees ... is this another joke?? EMPLOY MORE STAFF!!! I get the feeling from the comments on here that anyone with inside information/testing abilities on this player thinks their **** doesnt stink & are so privilaged to be part of some illusive tight packed cult or something (with 5 employees). This is'nt NASA/rocket science people, we're talking a DVD player here, give me a break already ! They have 1 week or lose my $.

Just buy a refurb Toshiba XA2 for ~$300USD and enjoy your DVD's,it has picture controls and uses the REON chip for upconversion.
Or buy a PS3 and be future-proof,either way relax and enjoy your movies.

I agree the above

way way too late Oppo

whats the delay ? Especially for "Product of the Year 2007 !!" thats a bit of a joke now !

As understood, very few receivers or pre/pros (such as the Onkyo and Integra AVRs and pre/pros) are capable of receiving and processing SACD received in DSD format (converting it to PCM internally).


Or directly to analog, I presume, if you choose a 'pure' or 'direct' option.

AIUI, playing the DSD tracks of an SACD involves at least

1) decrypting (due to copy protection)
2) decompressing (DSD is lossless compressed)
3) decoding
4) D/A conversion

When DSD is passed digitally and natively to an AVR, as has recently become possible via HDMI 1.2, I'm not clear which of the above functions are handled by player, vs AVR. I would expect step 1 to be done in the player, or at least some form of DRM checking, to allow the disc to keep spinning at all. SACD after all was ALL ABOUT copy protection, from an industry POV, and AFAIK it's one of the few protected formats that has never been 'cracked' in any way. Step 4 is obviously done in the AVR, whenever there's digital passage of DSD or DSD->PCM.

(It's also always been majorly unclear to me what ilink was doing when it passed DSD to ilink-ready receivers...did these have DSD decoding chips in them??)


But apparently the major improvement ("breakthrough") observed in your review seemed to be the ability of the Integra to receive SACD from the Oppo in either digital form (in either DSD or PCM) via HDMI, permitting the SACD/PCM signals to be processed in the Integra without the D-A-D conversion process.

DSD-->PCM, delivered digitally via HDMI 1.1 to the AVR without any intervening D/A conversion, was available starting with the Oppo 970. The 980 added the HDMI 1.2 capability of passing DSD as DSD, to receivers equipped to handle DSD.


As understood, several other AVRs/pre-pros (in addition to the Onkyos, Integras, Sony, etc.) are capable of receiving and processing signals in digital form. If so, could they be used in combination with the Oppo 980 (or 983) to receive and process SACD received from the Oppo in PCM format to achieve the same beneficial results you observed? For example, would the Denons, NADs, or others with HDMI 1.2 capability and internal signal processing (such as the Audessey) provide the same functional advantages?

I would think that in addition to HDMI 1.2, they would specifically have to contain hardware for DSD decoding. (Though all subsequent DSP would require a transcode to PCM first)

I agree the above

way way too late Oppo

whats the delay ? Especially for "Product of the Year 2007 !!" thats a bit of a joke now !

So, now Oppo gets blamed for the enthusiasm of the Secrets website? :rolleyes:

People, they're the *worst*.

Even modest psychic powers would reveal a flat black box very much like other flat black boxes........but with more logos across the front edge. :cool:

.......but with more logos across the front edge. :cool:

There you go again :D.
I have to be honest, when I first got this player, I was not very impressed. The more I use it, the more I tweak it, I am now head over heals in love with it! XA2?... A35... PS3... NO! The 983 is where it's at for SD -dvd and more. You will all see very soon. I'm letting 5thE roll right now, and it looks SPECTACULAR!!!! :D:D:D

There you go again :D.
I have to be honest, when I first got this player, I was not very impressed. The more I use it, the more I tweak it, I am now head over heals in love with it! XA2?... A35... PS3... NO! The 983 is where it's at for SD -dvd and more. You will all see very soon. I'm letting 5thE roll right now, and it looks SPECTACULAR!!!! :D:D:D

5th Element Superbit will be the first thing played on my 983 after a good long setup with DVE.

Smarty-pants - Will you be able to describe what type of "tweaking" you have done to make you feel confident that the 983 is better than either PS3 or XA2 (SD DVDs to SD DVDs of course). Also possibly describe how hard that tweaking was to get to that point.

If you have to wait (due to describing features / options to tweak) until it's out/released I understand. Just wanted to put it on your "to do" list (and thank you for assiting us) now.

the more I tweak it, I am now head over heals in love with it! That part has me a bit worried. My TV has been professionally calibrated off the 970 and I was hoping to drop the 983 in without digging up a calibration disc and tweaking.

.......but with more logos across the front edge. :cool:

Hmmm...I've read that remark before and I still can't figure it out. More logos on the front...hmmm...I'm out! I'm stumped!

Pleeeesssee...

That part has me a bit worried. My TV has been professionally calibrated off the 970 and I was hoping to drop the 983 in without digging up a calibration disc and tweaking.

Actually. I should have said "tweak my setup/display", not the player. I've actually tried changing some of the picture settings in the player... I keep ending up back at default or close to it.

That part has me a bit worried. My TV has been professionally calibrated off the 970 and I was hoping to drop the 983 in without digging up a calibration disc and tweaking.

The standard wisdom is that a display needs separate calibration for each input device. Maybe not the grayscale colors, but at least the brightness/contrast/saturation/tint that you do with amateur calibration.

-Bill

5th Element Superbit will be the first thing played on my 983 after a good long setup with DVE.

Smarty-pants - Will you be able to describe what type of "tweaking" you have done to make you feel confident that the 983 is better than either PS3 or XA2 (SD DVDs to SD DVDs of course). Also possibly describe how hard that tweaking was to get to that point.

If you have to wait (due to describing features / options to tweak) until it's out/released I understand. Just wanted to put it on your "to do" list (and thank you for assiting us) now.

It's more about tweaking MY setup. Of course every setup is different, especially when the display is a projector. A couple months ago I was able to compare to an XA2. They look... different from each other. To say that one is better... it depends on so many factors... the transfer of the movie to dvd, your display, ect...
The 983 is just a fantastic overall player. It's not perfect, but nothing is. It will have it's limitations. For what I need the player to do, it's just about perfect for me.
That's about all I can tell you for now.

I dunno much about tweaking either. I was hoping to just drop it in where my 970 was and let 'er rip.:)

What would be nice and address everyone's concerns is an official press release posted on Oppo's web site that announced the pending arrival.

This is something I have talked to OPPO about. They have not yet determined pre-release plans. Plans are to release the Press Release to coincide with the release of the player.

So why don't they release them?

Because they don't have to? It is their show and they will run it the way they feel is best for their sales and brand image.

whats the delay ?

There is a lot going behind the scenes then you know. Suffice to say, they could not have released it last year.

This is OPPO's probable last foray into the DVD player market. They will not **** it up by releasing a product prematurely.

Especially for "Product of the Year 2007 !!" thats a bit of a joke now !

That was Kris' doing. He thought a Beta unit was better than any released product that year. OPPO had nothing to do with that award, particularly since it can't lead to direct sales.

Kevin, what do you want to accomplish with your dvd player? What type of display do you have and what is it's native resolution as well as size?

Re: 980 vs 983 ...

SP- 50" Panasonic 768p plasma, that someday will become a 1080p plasma/LCD (probably larger too). 9.5 ft viewing distance. Both film and video quality are important (have never had a complaint with film and the 980, but its video processing could be better I think.) I'm fine with the 980's audio in that 99% of the time I use a digital output anyway. PAL is important too, but that's only about 1% of my viewing.

Shoot. Maybe the 980 is good enough, I'm just looking for an excuse to get the 983. :) I actually send 480p to the plasma, because I only want one scaling operation and my plasma does a pretty good job at that. Deinterlacing is another story, hence sending it 480p.

??

Maybe when the 983 is released, Oppo will do a comparison like the 981/980 on their web site.

Question for those of you who have the unit:

Is there enough room (say, 1.5" or so) from the left front corner of the unit before the disc tray? My AV base isn't wide enough to support all 16 7/8" without obscuring the front left 1.5" or so, ideally 1 3/4".

Question for those of you who have the unit:

Is there enough room (say, 1.5" or so) from the left front corner of the unit before the disc tray? My AV base isn't wide enough to support all 16 7/8" without obscuring the front left 1.5" or so, ideally 1 3/4".

Plenty of room.

-Bill

Ok, dumb question of the day.

SACD decoding is done in the 983 and sent via HDMI - I think I get that. But there is mention of HDMI 1.2, and I can't for the life of me find any direct reference as to why an AVR with HDMI 1.1 would not work. The audio is sent down the HDMI chain as any other 5.1 stream, yes?

Specifically, would this work over HDMI with my Denon 4306?

TIA - Dave

Thanks for the reply. I don't suppose the remote IR receiver is also within that 1.5" from the left? i.e. Will I lose remote functionality if I have that front left area covered?

Ok, dumb question of the day.

SACD decoding is done in the 983 and sent via HDMI - I think I get that. But there is mention of HDMI 1.2, and I can't for the life of me find any direct reference as to why an AVR with HDMI 1.1 would not work. The audio is sent down the HDMI chain as any other 5.1 stream, yes?It will work because the 983 sends SACD out as PCM.

Specifically, would this work over HDMI with my Denon 4306?My guess is yes but I would scour your manual or ask Denon to be sure.

Thanks for the reply. I don't suppose the remote IR receiver is also within that 1.5" from the left? i.e. Will I lose remote functionality if I have that front left area covered?

You have nothing to lose but your POWER button.

-Bill

There is a lot going behind the scenes then you know. Suffice to say, they could not have released it last year.

This is OPPO's probable last foray into the DVD player market. They will not **** it up by releasing a product prematurely.
.

And maybe it will form the basis of the SD portion of the future Blueray player?

Thanks again Bill! :)

That's awesome to hear.

It will work because the 983 sends SACD out as PCM.

My guess is yes but I would scour your manual or ask Denon to be sure.

Ok - this is where I get confused. Is PCM the normal protocol for audio over HDMI, or is this unique to HDMI 1.2? The Denon manual obviously shows support of audio over HDMI (1.1), but is unclear as to what formats are supported over HDMI.

-Dave

Ok - this is where I get confused. Is PCM the normal protocol for audio over HDMI, or is this unique to HDMI 1.2? PCM is the a normal protocol over HDMI but not all versions on all equipment will support multichannel at high res.

The Denon manual obviously shows support of audio over HDMI (1.1), but is unclear as to what formats are supported over HDMI.I suggest you find the Denon Audio thread here on AVS and ask DenonJeff. No one can give you a more informed or reliable answer.

There you go again :D.
I have to be honest, when I first got this player, I was not very impressed. The more I use it, the more I tweak it, I am now head over heals in love with it! XA2?... A35... PS3... NO! The 983 is where it's at for SD -dvd and more. You will all see very soon. I'm letting 5thE roll right now, and it looks SPECTACULAR!!!! :D:D:D

How is it for playing PAL discs? What is the picture quality like? Better than the hacked X-A2 for PAL discs?

Also does it have any problems playing PAL discs from Fox or any other companies that use RCE?

Ok, dumb question of the day.

SACD decoding is done in the 983 and sent via HDMI - I think I get that. But there is mention of HDMI 1.2, and I can't for the life of me find any direct reference as to why an AVR with HDMI 1.1 would not work. The audio is sent down the HDMI chain as any other 5.1 stream, yes?

Specifically, would this work over HDMI with my Denon 4306?

TIA - Dave

Yes, the Denon AVR-4306's HDMI inputs accept PCM signals at a maximum of 7.1 channels in up to 96 kHz/24-bit, and up to 192 kHz/24-bit for two-channel PCM audio.

The Denon's HDMI inputs are 1.1. While the inputs don't accept DSD from SACDs, you are good to go with the Oppo sending high data rate multichannel PCM signals to your Denon.

Hmmm...I've read that remark before and I still can't figure it out. More logos on the front...hmmm...I'm out! I'm stumped!

Pleeeesssee...



well, let's seem, Oppos already do CD, DD, DTS, HDCD, DVDA, SACD, mp3, and recordable media...so what could they add....hmmm.....:cool:

well, let's seem, Oppos already do CD, DD, DTS, HDCD, DVDA, SACD, mp3, and recordable media...so what could they add....hmmm.....:cool:

Is the insinuation that this might be Blu-Ray?

My guess would be Divx.

Is the insinuation that this might be Blu-Ray?

It's been mentioned that there is an extra logo(s) for Anchor Bay's VRS processing chipset.

Okay. It seemed inane when I was writing it, but nothing else was coming to me.

Yes, the Denon AVR-4306's HDMI inputs accept PCM signals at a maximum of 7.1 channels in up to 96 kHz/24-bit, and up to 192 kHz/24-bit for two-channel PCM audio.

The Denon's HDMI inputs are 1.1. While the inputs don't accept DSD from SACDs, you are good to go with the Oppo sending high data rate multichannel PCM signals to your Denon.

Many thanks for the info!

-Dave

Many thanks for the info!

-Dave

No problem.

I should note that you need the latest firmware update for the 4306 in order to get its full PCM capabilities over HDMI. The update also makes the AVR's HDMI implementation completely reliable with pretty much anything you connect to it.

You should already have the latest firmware installed if you purchased the AVR later than the beginning of last year. If not, you can download it here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=13220458&postcount=1759). The download includes information on how to check which firmware version you currently have, as well as explains how to perform the update via the 4306's Ethernet connection.

My guess would be Divx.


I'd say DivX is standard, all other players in the Oppo family plays DivX so I'd be surprised if they left out DivX and Xvid on this their final SD DVD-player.

However, it might be DivX-HD, that would be a major thing as DivX-HD supports 1080i as well as 1080p. There are only a handful of stand alone players out there that supports DivX-HD. And a stand alone that supports both DivX-HD and Xvid-HD is even rarer...

However, the DivX-HD is only pure speculation on my side, as I have absolutely nothing whatsoever to back this up.

Cheers

2 usage / practical (non-PQ, SQ based) questions:

1) Will they toss in a >=3ft HDMI cable (rated for 1080p of course). Just asking so we know to order one ahead of time if ones needed.

2) Will the 983 have IR remote codes that a universal can pick from (like another manufactures to get a decent % of the codes then do learning mode for the rest). Does the included remote have seperate On/Off buttons to learn the discrete codes to a universal? Or how does that work? (Sorry if these are really basic questions)

No problem.

I should note that you need the latest firmware update for the 4306 in order to get its full PCM capabilities over HDMI. The update also makes the AVR's HDMI implementation completely reliable with pretty much anything you connect to it.

You should already have the latest firmware installed if you purchased the AVR later than the beginning of last year. If not, you can download it here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=13220458&postcount=1759). The download includes information on how to check which firmware version you currently have, as well as explains how to perform the update via the 4306's Ethernet connection.

Thanks again. I had updated the firmware when it came out last year. Surprising that Denon still hasn't posted this update on the USA sites, yet those purchased late in the cycle got the newer code.

Oppo may want to reword their specs in this area. Even though it puts out a HDMI 1.2 compliant signal, it seems at least some AVRs (or, one!) that are 1.1 compliant will still work ok. It would be a shame to lose a customer because of an inference that they can't work together.

-Dave

2 usage / practical (non-PQ, SQ based) questions:

1) Will they toss in a >=3ft HDMI cable (rated for 1080p of course). Just asking so we know to order one ahead of time if ones needed.

2) Will the 983 have IR remote codes that a universal can pick from (like another manufactures to get a decent % of the codes then do learning mode for the rest). Does the included remote have seperate On/Off buttons to learn the discrete codes to a universal? Or how does that work? (Sorry if these are really basic questions)

If the 980H is any indication, the answer will be Yes to all of your questions. Well, I guess "how does that work" is not a yes/no type question. :) The 980H remote has discrete power buttons, and the unit can respond to "standard" codes from major manufacturers:

If your remote control does not support OPPO commands, you may use an alternative set of codes to operate the OPPO DV-980H. Please program the remote control with the code for TOSHIBA, PHILIPS, MAGNAVOX, MARANTZ or ZENITH DVD players. Since each brand of remote control may have several sets of codes, you may need to try several times using different codes to get the working one.

I would guess those testing the 983H either can't talk about it, or weren't sent the "full" retail package (or the final package may change before release) so there's no way to be sure what it will include, until Oppo releases that info.

First "Review" of the DV-983H is up at Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cd-dvd-player-product-reviews/dvd-players/oppo-digital-dv-983h-dvd-player---a-secrets-dvd-benchmark-review.html)

Conclusion:
The tentative release date of the Oppo DV-983H is March 10, 2008, and if you’re looking for reference video playback performance, this is it. Oppo has produced one heck of a machine. Its performance matches any design I’ve tested to date, and its performance via HDMI with both video and audio is outstanding. My highest recommendation.

Note: John Johnson is preparing a review covering the rest of the performance, including audio bench test results, which will be published soon.

Four hundred bucks.

First "Review" of the DV-983H is up at Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cd-dvd-player-product-reviews/dvd-players/oppo-digital-dv-983h-dvd-player---a-secrets-dvd-benchmark-review.html)

Conclusion:
The tentative release date of the Oppo DV-983H is March 10, 2008, and if you’re looking for reference video playback performance, this is it. Oppo has produced one heck of a machine. Its performance matches any design I’ve tested to date, and its performance via HDMI with both video and audio is outstanding. My highest recommendation.

Note: John Johnson is preparing a review covering the rest of the performance, including audio bench test results, which will be published soon.
DROOOOOOOOOLLLLLL:cool:

Im buying one, then a panny 50 BD 2.0

First "Review" of the DV-983H is up at Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cd-dvd-player-product-reviews/dvd-players/oppo-digital-dv-983h-dvd-player---a-secrets-dvd-benchmark-review.html)

Conclusion:
The tentative release date of the Oppo DV-983H is March 10, 2008, and if you’re looking for reference video playback performance, this is it. Oppo has produced one heck of a machine. Its performance matches any design I’ve tested to date, and its performance via HDMI with both video and audio is outstanding. My highest recommendation.

Note: John Johnson is preparing a review covering the rest of the performance, including audio bench test results, which will be published soon.Nice to see some factual coverage of the flagship 983H! Only $399!

First "Review" of the DV-983H is up


Does this mean that the NDAs are no longer in effect?

Mark.

No, it just means that Secrets has the jump on the competition. My NDA does not expire until OPPO nullifies it or the product is released.

So, it's official then, no DSD over HDMI. No big deal, cuz like Kal, I prefer the Oppo 980's DSD->PCM SACD sound over it's DSD sound, as processed by a Onkyo Pro 885/Integra 9.8. It's the first time I've preferred PCM to DSD (many universals in my collection). It sounds more organic, yet better dynamics and slightly better air around instruments.

Boy does Kris like the Anchor chip, wow! It will be interesting to read JJ's a/b with the 980's multichannel audio sonics.

No, it just means that Secrets has the jump on the competition. Nyah. My report was submitted weeks ago but the lead time for print media is much longer than for web media.

My NDA does not expire until OPPO nullifies it or the product is released.Right.

I sure would like some folks from here to chime in this thread Are all Oppos created equally for 2-channel (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1001104).
Thanks,
-Jai

woow.. that's what I was looking for :D

it looks really cool also... the only thing that kept me from buying 981 was its looks.. I'm glad I've waited :)

woow.. that's what I was looking for :D

it looks really cool also... the only thing that kept me from buying 981 was its looks.. I'm glad I've waited :)

Say WHAT ?:confused:?
...because of it's LOOKS?? :eek:

My simplistic questions about this player:

1) Can the lights be completely dimmed on the front panel so that it is completely dark?

2) Does the tray open immediately upon button press and does button press turn the power on (Xa2 tray really has me down :) )?

3) Is the remote fully backlit?

4) Does it have a (potentially noisy) cooling fan?

Thanks.

Display can be dimmed out, but not the power light. Power light is BRIGHT blue. You could put a piece of black tape over the power light.

Don't know what you mean by "button press". If you mean the eject button, then yes, takes a few seconds to power on and open. Takes one second to open when power is already on.

No backlit remote... at least mine is not.

No cooling fan.

Cool...yes I meant the eject button. I assume when you say a few seconds we are talking about ~4 and not ~40? :) Thanks.

Say WHAT ?:confused:?
...because of it's LOOKS?? :eek:The 980H and 983H do look a lot better then the 981HD! The very thin DVD caddy and the buttons used on the 981HD are not as attractive as the new Oppo models.

Is the 983's transport the same as the 980?

I hope someone has put in some time testing PAL disks on the 983 units.

I hope someone has put in some time testing PAL disks on the 983 units. Of course!

Gary

No DSD over HDMI :mad: (so why using HDMI 1.2!?:confused:)


This is not the ultimate SD-Player i was waiting for.....:(

Nyah. My report was submitted weeks ago but the lead time for print media is much longer than for web media.

And I wonder who got you a unit to look at? 'tis a mystery.

It will be interesting to read JJ's a/b with the 980's multichannel audio sonics.

I think JJ will like it a lot. There is less TDH on the analog outputs on the DV-983H over that of the DV-980H.

No DSD over HDMI :mad: (so why using HDMI 1.2!?:confused:)

Because they can, and likely they are using the same parts they use for the DV-980H to manufacture the DV-983H.

And the lack of HDMI DSD is due to the ABT chipset not allowing for the proper data to be passed. So either OPPO had to remove the ABT solution or find a hardware solution (further delaying the product). I think they made the right decision.

Is the 983's transport the same as the 980?

No. I will leave it at that.

Initial review is up at Secrets: link (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cd-dvd-player-product-reviews/dvd-players/oppo-digital-dv-983h-dvd-player---a-secrets-dvd-benchmark-review.html)

Perfect video score, less than perfect layer change. Tentative release date of March 10 at US$399.

I will live with SD in the next years and I have doubts about buying a 980h or a 983h. My main objective is to have the best I can get of PAL DVD over video components (576p).
In this case is the 983h an improvement over the 980h? Mainly in the deinterlacing where the 980h has some bugs.
For video components the 983h use the mediatek or the ABT chip?

Thanks,
Costa

The 980H and 983H do look a lot better then the 981HD! The very thin DVD caddy and the buttons used on the 981HD are not as attractive as the new Oppo models.

I does look good. With the black face and blue light it will match my Emotiva gear perfectly. Sounds like the video part is excellent too!:)

From the picture of the 983 on Home Theatre Secrets, I can't see what the "additional" logos are... can anyone see them? I'm intrigue by this... and the review makes no mention of it.

Also, where's the USB port?

Early in this thread (< page 10 I think) it was mentioned the USB 2.0 port is a rear port.

Initial review is up at Secrets:
less than perfect layer change. (I added Bold)

Sounds like picking between the 983 and 980 is like choicing a Highend Corvette (983) with a few unsightly scratches or a sporty sedan with an amazing paint job.

It's highly frustrating that the "flag ship" player is a step back in layer change / response to the 980.

0.25 sec is alot faster than the 1.75 sec of my current player (So maybe the 0.25 will seem close enough to no layer change pause??)

Just when I though the decision between the 980 and 983 was going to be a slam dunk for the 3 dilemas arise.

I'd like to hear about the extra Logo also... I've got my fingures crossed it's Divix-HD so future home made footage with an HD camera can be converted to Divx-HD and shown through USB dongle or burnt DVD... WOuld be certainly make a big difference in my opinion on getting it verse the 980.

Because they can, and likely they are using the same parts they use for the DV-980H to manufacture the DV-983H.

And the lack of HDMI DSD is due to the ABT chipset not allowing for the proper data to be passed. So either OPPO had to remove the ABT solution or find a hardware solution (further delaying the product). I think they made the right decision.

And further:

- if you plan to do ANY digital processing of the signal downstream, DSD will be converted to PCM.

- if you actually can hear the difference between 88.1/24 PCM and DSD (and it's not due to some implementation issue) then you are not human, you're a god.

For $399, I guess I'll be sticking with the 981 player.

cost HIGHER than $300 player and NOT dsd over hdmi? lol. i know it's got the 'best' video performance, but that means enthusiasts of BOTH video and audio will have to own the 980H for the DSD over hdmi AND the 983 for the audio? lol...

som1 start a new thread for the DV-984 Blu-Ray universal player =P.

Hey Guys

I am no longer with Secrets so no follow up will be published there unless someone else does it.

Here are the logos across the top left to right:

DVD
SACD
Windows Media
DIVX
XVID
Kodak
CD
HDCD
Dolby Digital EX
DTS
7.1
PAL/NTSC
HDMI
Upscaling
USB 2.0

Nothing on the logos about DIVX HD and definitely nothing about Blu-ray.

The USB output is on the back left of the unit next to the HDMI output.

Kris,

I am wondering if you can comment (not asking for more material, testing or writing) on why the 980 is not showing up on the Secret's benchmark database. I'm only noticing the 981 and 971 (did Oppo only models and the "All" search).

I'm sorry to hear that the main resource of scientific information / testing for video playback devices won't be updated or expanded on. I've truly enjoy your style of hardware review. Thank you for all the hard work you've put into the benchmarks.

PS - Wondering if you could comment (expand upon) on the layer change and if it's noticable in a standard SD DVD (compared to the high bitrate test material). I'm also assuming 0.25 sec would seems close to seemless when used to 1.75 sec.

No. I will leave it at that.

Thanks, Neuromancer.

I guess there is hope for a (better) 'audiophile grade' transport. :cool:

Are there any official spec's or measurements available on this unit (DV-983H) yet? Curious what the overall height is?

Are there any official spec's or measurements available on this unit (DV-983H) yet? Curious what the overall height is?

Dimensions are in the Secrets review (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cd-dvd-player-product-reviews/dvd-players/oppo-digital-dv-983h-dvd-player---a-secrets-dvd-benchmark-review.html).

Four hundred bucks.

What happend to the $300-$350 price range?:confused:

What happend to the $300-$350 price range?:confused:I guess that's where the 982 fits. :p

(Don't blame me for another pointless thread.)

Regarding layer change...

I am no "expert" like the other testers, hence I have no expensive equipment to test the 983 or any of the other components I have. I make comments based on what I see in "real world" playback. Having said that, I have NEVER noticed any layer change on my 983. Just an FYI for those wondering agout previous comments...

What happend to the $300-$350 price range?:confused:

The product was actually designed and tested. Independent observers thought the player was too cheap for what you got. Thereby, increase in the price.

And I do believe OPPO had been saying "300~400" as the MSRP ever since the DVD player was known. The OP states 300~350.

I guess that's where the 982 fits. :p

(Don't blame me for another pointless thread.)

Are you able to comment on the 983's DSD to PCM transcoding yet?

ABT is said to provide the deinterlacing solution. And what about the scaling? Is it ABT too?

Regarding layer change...

I am no "expert" like the other testers, hence I have no expensive equipment to test the 983 or any of the other components I have. I make comments based on what I see in "real world" playback. Having said that, I have NEVER noticed any layer change on my 983. Just an FYI for those wondering agout previous comments...

Smarty-pants: I know I really appreciate your feedback / comments on this regards as it's the only kink in this players suit of armour. (Awesome to think it's not regarding PQ). I know you've had alot of time and "real world" experience with the 983 watching movies all the way through so your comments mean alot. Thanks. :cool:

mm wonder what the uk price will be !!!

£300 ?

ABT is said to provide the deinterlacing solution. And what about the scaling? Is it ABT too?

Early posts (1st 10 pages or less). ABT is used for both scaling and dinterlacing making it unique from HDM players with ABT scaling only. Exact chipset #s are in earlier posts. It's a MTK MPEG decoder chip to round out the 983.

Kris,

I am wondering if you can comment (not asking for more material, testing or writing) on why the 980 is not showing up on the Secret's benchmark database. I'm only noticing the 981 and 971 (did Oppo only models and the "All" search).

I'm sorry to hear that the main resource of scientific information / testing for video playback devices won't be updated or expanded on. I've truly enjoy your style of hardware review. Thank you for all the hard work you've put into the benchmarks.

PS - Wondering if you could comment (expand upon) on the layer change and if it's noticable in a standard SD DVD (compared to the high bitrate test material). I'm also assuming 0.25 sec would seems close to seemless when used to 1.75 sec.

The benchmarks will continue, I just won't be doing them. Secrets isn't going to let it go away, it is too valuable an asset.

The layer change will be barely perceivable. Our tests are done using a max bitrate layer change (material is literally peaking the bitrate of the DVD spec) so it is literally worst case scenario.

I will live with SD in the next years and I have doubts about buying a 980h or a 983h. My main objective is to have the best I can get of PAL DVD over video components (576p).
In this case is the 983h an improvement over the 980h? Mainly in the deinterlacing where the 980h has some bugs.
For video components the 983h use the mediatek or the ABT chip?
Costa

Costa, you should use the 980H. For video components output, the 983H and 980H are the same and both use the OPPO/mediatek chip.

The price listed in the review might not be finalized. Last time I talked to Oppo they were still figuring that out. The price listed in the review was put there as a tentative, but may not be the final price.

tbh I find the Component output on the 980H pretty poor

a bit dark, muddy etc

HDMI output is better

Costa, you should use the 980H. For video components output, the 983H and 980H are the same and both use the OPPO/mediatek chip.

What happend to the $300-$350 price range?I think the way you have to see it (Oppo's pricing that is), this unit is probably $800.00 less than what Denon would charge for a comparable player they would produce (seriously). Moreover, with out the poor quality-control issues.

So this player is an exceptionally good deal..........based on performance equal and surpassing the DV-980H (which I'm using right now).

Independent observers thought the player was too cheap for what you got. Thereby, increase in the price.


KILL THEM! ;-) Why should they care I suppose, they probably dont have to pay for it. I dont see why 'independant observers' should set a price for a product. Surely economics of the cost of manufacture, marketing and distribution balanced against trying to sell at the most attractive price and still make a reasonable profit should be the factors.

At that price I will stick with my 981, which is pretty damn good, for another 12 months and see how the blueray goes.

Kris,

I really enjoyed your articles on Secrets. It won't be the same without you. I wish you the best of luck at your new place. I'll have to check it out.

-Reagan

If the price is going to be 399.99 I guess I wont sit on the sideline anymore, I know of a good blu-ray player comming soon for the same cost, granted it wont come close to oppo at upconverting but i'd rather go forward with my technology than stay at the same tech for the same price.

KILL THEM! ;-) Why should they care I suppose, they probably dont have to pay for it. I dont see why 'independant observers' should set a price for a product.
If the price is going to be 399.99 I guess I wont sit on the sideline anymore, I know of a good blu-ray player comming soon for the same cost, granted it wont come close to oppo at upconverting but i'd rather go forward with my technology than stay at the same tech for the same price.
We have to look at how you price a product before you can truly judge if they made a poor decision.

The price for any good is determined by several factors:

The first is the raw materials (ABT chipset, MTK chipset, loader, resistors, capacitors, etc). These are basic, "I know exactly how much it cost me" numbers. This sets a minimum baseline you can sell the product and still make a product.

The second is costs associated to creating the product in the first place (R&D, Industrial Design, retooling the manufacturing, etc). This can be cheap (refresh) or expensive.

The third cost is product maintenance. This is the most important and costly aspect of running any business. This category covers the costs of repairs, replacements, and refunds; manual labor for repairs; tech and sales support (physical and infrastructure); firmware/software engineers; and shipping expenditures (to and from customers). This is a projection analysis only, so you as a manufacturer have to determine how often a product will be returned for a refund or repaired, how much replacement stock you need, how much staff you need on hand to handle all technical and sales duties, etc.

You can also through in the cost of renting/owning your factory and offices, cost of electricity, cost employees (salary, training, pension, stock options, medical and dental plans, disabilities, etc) and equipment (computers, phones, network infrastructure, etc), advertising, and so forth. Also don't forget that retailer margins.

It is only after looking at all these factors that you can determine the final price of a product. For OPPO, they felt that $399.00 is the price point which is both profitable and enticing to the customer.

I think the way you have to see it (Oppo's pricing that is), this unit is probably $800.00 less than what Denon would charge for a comparable player they would produce (seriously). Moreover, with out the poor quality-control issues.

So this player is an exceptionally good deal..........based on performance equal and surpassing the DV-980H (which I'm using right now).

Speaking of...I can't wait for an Elite fanatic to start harping about build quality and how his 163 lb. bohemoth has a much more robust power supply...big deal, my Toyota Tundra has superior build quality (about 5,3000lbs worth) and its power supply is much more robust than the Elite player...'course, it doesn't play movies for $#%&...but, lets not get practical all of a sudden.

Good job Oppo, another record broken...looks like I'll have to trade in the old 970 (but I think I might try and wait for the Blu-ray iteration of this one, please use the ABT chip and give it all the universal goodies for under $500, we will respond by buying it in bulk).

I'm not knocking the $400 price point. If it's a nice improvement over my 970 as I was told, I can live with it. If/when blu ray becomes mainstream then I'll go that route.

cost HIGHER than $300 player and NOT dsd over hdmi? lol.

LOL indeed. I laugh every time someone worries about 'No DSD over HDMI" as if that made a real-world difference.

Btw, to revise what I wrote before -- if you can hear the diff between 88.2/24 PCM and DSD, you aren't human, or a god...you're a bat.

I'm a little surprised to see the Secrets review up as I was asked not to publish a review or picture of the 983 until the release date.

Kris, sorry to hear you won't be doing the full review, but I look forward to whatever you do for HT Mag.

Regarding a question asked a few days ago about the 983 versus a 980 on a Sony 60A3000, I was able to do a little comparison viewing last night and while the difference is not great, the 983H is noticeably better. Colors are deeper and the picture is slightly sharper. I'll have more in my full review, but so far it's the best upscaling DVD player I've seen.

Are you able to comment on the 983's DSD to PCM transcoding yet?Nope. Not only are my comments still, theoretically, under embargo by Oppo until the product is released, I do not comment on topics I write about for Stereophile until the comments see print.

It is only after looking at all these factors that you can determine the final price of a product. For OPPO, they felt that $399.00 is the price point which is both profitable and enticing to the customer.

I totally agree with what you say but that is certainly different to the original statement that "Independent observers thought the player was too cheap for what you got. Thereby, increase in the price"

Well, that was one of their factors. If you have people who are heavy hitters in the industry telling you to sell the product at a higher price, you will at least listen to them.

I think I will pass on the 983 because:
No USB port on the front.
It's HDMI 1.2,not HDMI 1.3
Does not pass DSD via HDMI.
ABT chip only deinterlaces.
$399USD

IMO it's not worth the money and the 980 is a better bargain.

It's HDMI 1.2,not HDMI 1.3


What 1.3 features were you thinking of using?

ABT chip only deinterlaces.

Why do you say that?

-Bill

Why do you want HDMI 1.3? It does not help a standard definition DVD player at all.

There are two ABT chipsets in the DV-983H: one for de-interlacing, the other for scaling.

And for someone with the self proclaimed title of "Anti FUD", you sure know how to dish it out.

Read the specs from the review.
I tried to copy the specs but it's a GIF.

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cd-dvd-player-product-reviews/dvd-players/oppo-digital-dv-983h-dvd-player---a-secrets-dvd-benchmark-review.html

"Decoder:Mediatek

Deinterlacer:Anchor Bay Technology ABT-1012"


Honestly I was going to buy an 983 but after looking at the specs and the price I think I'm going to buy a 980.

Kris only mentions the ABT 102 (de-interlacing) and fails to mention th ABT 1018 (Scaling) (IIRC, Kris does all of his tests at 480p, so the scaler does not need to be mentioned in this testing scheme). The OP has it correct.

HDMI 1.3 doesn't mean squat for a universal DVD player.

The player uses the ABT 102 for de-interlacing and an ABT scaler for scaling, so it is a two chip solution.

The MSRP has not been set in stone to my knowledge, so I would save those comments for later.

Costa, you should use the 980H. For video components output, the 983H and 980H are the same and both use the OPPO/mediatek chip.


In this case, and since I am mainly using PAL DVDs, I will be looking for the Denon 2930 or 3930. They cost a lot more but they are good through video components output.

Costa

Does the 983 have the "capture feature" where you can use your own jpeg instead of the Oppo startup picture?

Can't believe I'm posting here with all these Home Theater Mag and Stereophile celebrities *faints* :)

I think I will pass on the 983 because:
No USB port on the front.
It's HDMI 1.2,not HDMI 1.3
Does not pass DSD via HDMI.
ABT chip only deinterlaces.
$399USD

IMO it's not worth the money and the 980 is a better bargain.

The other comments were addressed but the "No USB port on the front".

Humm.... about 5 months ago when it was first mentioned the port is on the rear I went to www.monoprice.com and ordered 6 (for computer desk too, etc) black 6ft USB 2.0 extension cables for an amazingly (unbelievably) low price.

"Problem" solved. Actually I think I prefer it this way and I think Oppo might have designed it that way to give the 983 chasis a more high-end look (over USB port in front).

The other comments were addressed but the "No USB port on the front".

Humm.... about 5 months ago when it was first mentioned the port is on the rear I went to www.monoprice.com and ordered 6 (for computer desk too, etc) black 6ft USB 2.0 extension cables for an amazingly (unbelievably) low price.

"Problem" solved. Actually I think I prefer it this way and I think Oppo might have designed it that way to give the 983 chasis a more high-end look (over USB port in front).

Yes but they could of had both and hide the front port behind a door(ie Toshiba HD DVD player).I don't want to be a troublemaker but I think my other points are valid as well.IMO all TV's,DVD players and AVR's manufactured since 1/07 should be HDMI 1.3.There is no reason for them to be using 1.1 or 1.2 anymore.
I do stand corrected on the scaler comment and I apologize.

In this case, and since I am mainly using PAL DVDs, I will be looking for the Denon 2930 or 3930. They cost a lot more but they are good through video components output.

That's only a good idea if you have a PAL/multistandard display. My Denon 3910 does a rotten job of standards conversion, and I'm told the 3930 is little better.

Then again, if the 983's component outs really do bypass the ABT chips, then its standards conversion will probably be equally rotten, unless you use HDMI.

I guess I'll have to invest in an HDMI switchbox...

Yes but they could of had both and hide the front port behind a door(ie Toshiba HD DVD player).Or as they did on the 980.

IMO all TV's,DVD players and AVR's manufactured since 1/07 should be HDMI 1.3.There is no reason for them to be using 1.1 or 1.2 anymore.

That does not compute. Again: there is no reason to have 1.3 on an SD-DVD player. HDMI levels are backwards compatible, so you lose nothing.

-Bill

There is no reason for them to be using 1.1 or 1.2 anymore.

Once again, why is there a need to be using HDMI 1.3? Other than just a name, there are only two aspects of HDMI 1.3 which can actually benefit a DVD player, and both require that the source device and the destination device are made to interact with each other. In the case of OPPO, who does not make any televisions or receivers, HDMI 1.3 offers no benefit.

Or as they did on the 980.

They could have, but personally I hate anything that is not a true fold down door. The flap on the DV-980H isn't bad, but everytime I look at the Marantz SR-8001 and its chinsey assed plastic cover, I cry a little.

Does the 983 have the "capture feature" where you can use your own jpeg instead of the Oppo startup picture?

I think so, but don't quote me on this. I havn't used the DV-983H remote itself.

...if the 983's component outs really do bypass the ABT chips, then its standards conversion will probably be equally rotten, unless you use HDMI.

Do you guys think that's gonna happen??? :eek: This is gonna be bad. :mad:
Believe it or not, I'm the only guy on Earth who prefers component over HDMI... :rolleyes:

Because they can, and likely they are using the same parts they use for the DV-980H to manufacture the DV-983H.

And the lack of HDMI DSD is due to the ABT chipset not allowing for the proper data to be passed. So either OPPO had to remove the ABT solution or find a hardware solution (further delaying the product). I think they made the right decision.

My VP50 passes DSD over HDMI so not sure if your statement is true. I, for one am glad that I purchased a 980 and did not wait (am in my first week of ownership of the 980) and very happy. I have tried both PCM and DSD over HDMI and like the option of either.

Jim