The Oppo Blu-Ray Player and The Spears and Munsil Benchmark Disc - A First Look
The Oppo Blu-Ray Player and The Spears and Munsil Benchmark Disc - A First Look
I received a review sample of the new Oppo Universal Blu-Ray player about a week ago. It has the final production hardware, but the firmware is still in the beta stage and will probably get another update before regular production versions begin shipping.
This version will play Blu-Ray, SACDs, DVD-As, DVDs, CDs, and MP3 disks. The Oppo player has HDMI and component YCRB video outputs. Audio outputs include analog two-channel, analog 5.1/7.1, digital optical and coaxial, and HDMI. The rear panel also has a USB 2.0, Ethernet, and IR in and out connections. The front panel has an additional USB 2.0 port. The Ethernet connection allows the unit to perform automatic firmware updates via the Internet.
The Oppo Blu-Ray player came with a Spears and Munsil High Definition Benchmark Disc from Hand Forged Video, which I used to check my projector’s calibration before watching other discs. I was very impressed with the Spears and Munsil disc. It has a complete and user-friendly set of calibration and evaluation patterns. Each pattern is well documented so that even a novice user can quickly learn how to use each pattern. The disc has a great “race car clip” that allows users to check their player, scaler, and display devices’ source adaptive deinterlacing capabilities from film-based sources. The disc also has clips to check edge adaptive deinterlacing from video source material. In short this disc delivers everything you need to set up your video system and determine exactly how good it really is.
The first impressive performance feature of the new Oppo player is how fast it loads and plays Blu-Ray discs. It took less than 10 seconds for the initial title of the Spears and Munsil disc to begin playing. Its response to menu commands was spritely, with virtually no delays or hesitation.
The remote control for the New Oppo is equally impressive. It’s well laid out with all the controls in logical locations, has built-in backlighting for all of its buttons, and feels comfortable to use. It’s certainly a far cry better than Oppo’s first generation remotes.
Since Playback will soon be examining the Oppo’s video and audio performance in great detail, I’ll keep my initial thoughts on its performance brief. Its video performance on both Blu-Ray and standard DVDs easily bested my Sony BP-300 player. The images displayed less video noise, especially in the shadow areas.
I was extremely impressed by the Oppo’s analog audio output. SACDs sounded as good through the Oppo as they did through my longtime reference Lexicon RT-20. Blu-Ray movie soundtracks with the latest True-HD encoding actually sounded better through the Oppo’s analog outputs rather than through its digital connections routed directly into my Lexicon MC-12B HD (which does not support these latest formats.)
Although this was technically a pre-production sample, I haven’t discovered any of the operational or ergonomic glitches that usually plague prototypes. If this unit is any indication of the quality of the soon to be released production model, Oppo has a tremendous hit on their hands. Consumers’ biggest problem will be getting one.
Comments
Steven, thanks for your first thoughts on the OPPO Blu-Ray player. I would be very interested in knowing more about its SACD and CD playback quality. I've been using OPPO's DV-980H (their audio-optimized model) as the universal player in my two-channel audio system with great pleasure since last summer. I wonder how the new Blu-Ray player's SACD and CD reproduction via its analog outputs might improve on the 980's performance. (I'm not using my 980 for video, but many other readers must be doing so.)
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
DG,
I'm an admirer of the DV-980H (reviewed in Playback issue 4), but feel the DV-983H (reviewed in Playback issue 10) is even better still. Prior to the arrival of the BDP-83, I'd have said the 983H was hands down Oppo's best-sounding player.
The BDP-83, however, takes sonic performance even higher by implementing the following changes vis-a-vis the DV-983H: 1) a much more substantial power supply, 2) isolated analog outputs, 3) separate/dedicated sets of multichannel and stereo outputs, 4) dedicated DACs and op amps for analog output channels, and 5) slightly higher than normal voltage [2.3V] maximum analog output levels (Oppo says many audiophiles perceive that 2.3V maximum outputs sound better that more common 2.0V maximum outputs).
Per a gentleman's agreement I have with Oppo's Jason Liao, I've promised not to comment on the BDP-83's performance in any way until the player is in its final production form--a point that I believe is still a few weeks and a couple of firmware updates away. But let me put it this way: I'm listening to a reference quality multichannel SACD through the BDP-83 as I type this, and I've got an uncharacteristically BIG grin on my face...
Stay tuned for the Playback review, which--if Oppo's release timing cooperates--should appear in issue 21.
Best,
Chris Martens
Editor, Playback
Chris Martens
Editor, Avguide.com/Playback/The Perfect Vision
Thanks, Chris. I'm looking forward to hearing it.
DG
Steven,
Thank you for mention our disc in your blog. We are currently writing a series of articles that will cover basic calibration using our disc. The first two have been published, which include using our calibration filter (blue filter) and setting the brightness control. Both can be found here: http://www.spearsandmunsil.com/articles.html
If anyone has any questions on using the disc, we will be happy to answer.
Best Regards,
Stacey Spears
I just got an Email from Oppo's Jason Liao.
A Spears and Munsil disc will be enclosed in every Oppo BDP-83.
I think this is a great accessory that will help insure that end-users will get to experience the machine's full potential.
Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications
It would be nice to mention whether the S&M 'disc' is Bluray or low-res DVD.
Also, I heard a rumour that the Oppo BDP will only be made in Region 1 compatibility. So, no worldwide distribution. True?
Region 1 only. Blu-ray licencing prohibits multi-region players. That now applies to DVD in this machine, as well as Blu-ray.
Arg,
The Spears & Munsil disc that came with the Playback review sample BDP-83 is most definitely a full-fledged Blu-ray disc--not a DVD.
I don't know the answer on the Region 1 question but will check and advise later on.
Chris Martens
Editor, Avguide.com/Playback/The Perfect Vision
I'm currently using the "old" Sony flagship dvp9000es as my cd/sacd player in my tv/bedroom system.
The question for me is will the analigue outs on the Oppo 83 be comparable to that of my Sony so I can have a "one box" solution?
Chris or Steven - care to comment?
Thanks.
I haven't heard the Sony, so I can't give you a definitive answer, BUT...
I feel the Oppo's analog outputs are very competitive with the Lexicon RT-20.
On both SACD's and DVD-A's I found the Oppo's analog sound to be hard to fault.
Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications
s.a.b.,
I haven't had the chance to compare the DVP-S9000ES side by side with the Oppo, but I did own and use a DVP-S9000ES as my reference for several years and am familiar with its sound. Working from sonic memory (which is, admittedly, a tricky proposition), my estimate is that the analogue sound of the Oppo can easily equal (and quite likely surpass) the sound of the Sony.
Best, Chris
Chris Martens
Editor, Avguide.com/Playback/The Perfect Vision
Steve and Chris,
Thanks much for your prompt responses. Seems like this is a machine I should definitely check out!
Given that I also own a Benchmark DAC 1 and the Sony DVP 9000es sounds quite similar to that to my ears (at least with my ancillary equiopment- Harbeth speakers and Quad electronics), the OPPO really does appear to be an affordable one-box solution.
On a somwhat side issue- for those who don't have the space (or money) for a surround system, most people don't appreciate how good a two channel set-up can be with an HD TV, HD cable or satellite box and Blueray player.
Best,
Stuart
Thanks for the "The First Look". I think I want one.
If I may... please clean the dirt off your gear. It's really skanky looking with all the fingerprints and grime everywhere.
Regards,
kr
On camera flash shows every spec of dust far more clearly than in real life.
Tuesday is dusting day...you're welcome to come over and help...
Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications
Ha! You provide the Swifters and I'll bring the beer.
kr
The Oppo certainly sounds like the way to go for those of us who enjoy both DVD-A and SACD along with Blu-Ray. I am curious though, why, with all the forward thinking they would not also include wireless internet capability. I assume this because you mention an ethernet connection but not WiFi.
The Ethernet port is currently for firmware upgrades.
Although the BDP-83 doesn't have an internal Wifi you can connect its Ethernet to a Wifi/Ethernet bridge. I have mine connected to my Sonos.
Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications
The BD-83, right now, is locked to DVD Region 1 and Blu-ray Region A as per a standard industry contract with the BDA. Oppo cannot change this if they want to keep making BR players. A European version is rumored, but not confirmed... yet. http://watershade.net/wmcclain/BDP-83-faq.html#where-can-i-buy-non-region-a-1-versions-of-this-player
(cue the "WAAAAAAH! it's not region free!" posts in 3... 2... 1...)
Do you have an estimated price yet?
$499.95 and worth a lot more. :)
The production units are out! I ordered mine today per this email:
The BDP-83 Early Adoption Program has successfully come to an end with 90% voting in favor of releasing the BDP-83. Valuable feedback from our early adoption customers and beta testers has helped us shape the BDP-83 into a truly exceptional product.
Due to limited initial availability, we are offering priority ordering for customers that signed up early for the OPPO Blu-ray Interest List. If you would like to place a priority order for the BDP-83, please follow the special link below:
[Link not included here]
As this is a special by-invitation-only link, we ask that you do not share or mention this special link with anyone else. Priority orders are limited to 1 unit per customer only and all orders are subject to verification. This invitation will remain available through May 19, 2009. We expect to begin fulfilling priority orders between May 18 to May 22, 2009
For verification purposes, during the checkout process please use the same e-mail address you used to register for the BDP-83. If you prefer to use a different e-mail address for your order, please indicate your registered e-mail address in the Additional Information field during checkout.
So you can have the best experience possible with the BDP-83, we will be taking the time to update your unit with the latest firmware before shipping it out to you. We greatly appreciate your patience and believe you will find that the BDP-83 was worth the wait.
Has anyone compared the analog SACD outputs of the BDP-83 against the Sony XA-9000ES? JCR
According to FedEx tracking, mine is now heading east from North Salt Lake. I'm glad they deliver on Saturdays!
Got my machine yesterday. So far I haven't had time to do more than basically hook it up stereo and run the quick setup.
One of of the more frequent complaints from participants in Oppo's early adopter program was poor lip-sync on standard DVDs, but I'm happy to report I saw no evidence of that problem when we watched our weekly Netflix (Heat) last night.
Wait till the first time you load a Blu Ray disc - the quick start up will leave you breathless....well, maybe not breathless, but you won't have time to microwave popcorn between insertion and play as with earlier generation players. :)
Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications
Well...I noticed the disc was quite warm when we finished watching it. Maybe they could include a popcorn popping drawer in future versions with no extra energy cost.
To Steven Stone or Chris Martains:
Any chance of getting an oppo BDP 83 full review in the near future in the TAS or related magazines? If you have an idea then When? May be the next digital issue.....? Looking forward to your reviews! Also what are your thoughts of using the oppo BDP 83 as a transport with an outboard DAC Via its digital output would be nice.
Hello Sam,
Chris Martins, Playback's editor, will be doing a full review in the very near future.
I'm sure he will address using the BDP as a transport.
In my set-up I use both the analog and digital audio outputs and depending on the source will use one or the other.
On older movies on DVD without the latest codecs and CDs I use the digital decoder in my Lexicon MC-12HD. For SACD, DVD-A, and the latest DVD's and Blu-Ray disks I use the Oppo's analog outputs. For earlier Blu-Rays I usually compare both outputs before choosing. Usually I do end up picking the Lexicon over the Oppo with these discs, but it hasn't been a 100% sure thing - it really depends on the disc.
Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications
How come people are selling the new yet to be released Oppo BDP 83 on ebay for $800? arent there laws to protect the company. Its like buy it for $500 and sell for $800 because its not released yet. People will do funny things to make a buck rather than work....well in this case several hundered bucks.
If they have buyers it means that some other people are so eager to get the latest gizmo that they will pay a premium.
The downside is that a manufacturer could take this to heart and RAISE their prices...
Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications
I've had my BDP-83 for a few weeks and think it is a great player. My main concern, at this point, is what sounds like an elevated high end/brightness to the audio (2-channel analog out - do not have surround at this point). I have mainly been listening to SACD, DVD-A and regular CD. This has been reported by several people over at AVS, others do not seem to notice it. Maybe it is a system matching thing, but I bought the BDP-83 as much for it's universal player capabilities as it's BlueRay. Definitely going to keep the player, but it would be nice to figure out a way to tame the overly bright audio presentation.
I should mention that the video and load times on this player are top notch and the audio issues are not a deal killer to me, by any means.
Steve,
quick question on Bass management.
Does this player have adjustable crossover points or relagated to the 80hz option only?
thanks
80 Hz or full-range (no x-over to subs).
Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications
Steven,
When is the review coming for the BDP 83? Have you tested the player as a CD transport and what are your thoughts? How does it compare to other high end transports? I am amazed at Alan Taffel's claims in the 2009 golden year awards issue number 193. Mr. Teffel regarding Bryston claims "The BDA-1 makes even a budget CD player's coax output sound very nearly as good as a reference transport." Wow! Im curious to know if the BDP 83 comes close to state of art as CD transport if used with a high end DAC like the Bryston BDA 1.
Chis Martin will be doing a full review for Playback in the very near future.
Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications
Mr. Chris Martens,
In your recent oppo BDP83 Review, I am surprised that you didn't test or mention anything about the SPDIF Digital output of the Oppo BDP83 player to be used as a CD Transport. Those who already have a high end DAC would benifit from this information. Allan Taffel in his 2009 Golden ear award says that the Bryston DAC makes even a budget CD Transport sound near State of Art. How does the BDP83 sound as a CD transport in Comparizon to state of art or anything else for that matter in the CD Transport catagory. A followup to your review regarding this would be of great help. Also those who are looking into investing in a music server would benifit greatly by not wasting $3000 to $5000 on a CD transport right now when the oppo can get near that sound quality. Music servers are starting to take off but people still need CD Transports. Please make some comments regarding this.
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