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Oh no, I need a new player!

70.208.154.22
Posted on March 3, 2014 at 10:16:25
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Currently looking to replace my Sony SCD-1, oh no!

Been all over the internet looking at possible choices. I came up with the well reviewed Oppo 105 at the very attractive price point of $1200. I'm planning to use my new player strictly in a main 2ch stereo system, at least for the foreseeable future, unless one day I plan to combine HT with my 2CH audio system,(did I actually as that?)LOL!

Looked at stuff that scores better in reviewer's eyes, but costs way much more. Frankly, as I haven't been up on digital for the last 14yrs(thank you SCD-1), I am pretty much a newbie once again. Any advise would be appreciated. Obviously, I'm looking for Red book and SACD but do have a couple HDCDs too that is nice to have though not a make or break.

Price points I'd like to stay in is under the 5K range(been there done that) and really favor the 2K line actually. With the way digital is going with hi-rez downloads and streaming, etc, I just don't think going way out on the disc player price scale makes any sense, at least for me.

So please weigh in ladies & gentlemen, so much out there is never covered by mainstream media, so I need idea. Thanks.

 

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RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 10:23:17
fantja
Audiophile

Posts: 15524
Location: Alabama
Joined: September 11, 2010
 Look at the Sony 5400 ES for openers.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 10:41:49
oldmkvi
Audiophile

Posts: 10583
Joined: April 12, 2002
 Sony 5400, $ 1500 at Acoustic Sounds,
Sony HAP Z1 $ 2000, also AC, and other places.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 11:26:56
oldmkvi
Audiophile

Posts: 10583
Joined: April 12, 2002
 I have a 5400/VSE TF Lite, and a stock 5400.
Recently I tried the Uber Clock, and upon a lot of listening, I discovered that I like the stock player better!
The VSE ( Lite and Uber ) pull the sound way back behind the plane of the speakers, and mid range was rather recessed to my ear. It always seems a little too loud, or not quite loud enough, where the stock player was more forward in the mids, had a more well defined, solid and colorful sound and I can find the ideal listening level very easily.
I also found the I prefer the Unbalanced connect btween amp and pre, notieable richer and nicer, Balanced was a little dry to my ears.
Anyway, I've been loving the stock 5400, which I got a few years ago from the Nerds, for $800!
Everything I've listened to. including recordings I did, sound amazingly good,
I don't know what I'm going to do with the VSE player, now put back to TF Light.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 11:53:16
fantja
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Posts: 15524
Location: Alabama
Joined: September 11, 2010
 Thanks! for sharing.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 12:06:11
John Elison
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Posts: 23900
Location: Central Kentucky
Joined: December 20, 2000
Contributor
  Since: January 29, 2004
 The great thing about the Oppo BDP-105 is that you can use it as a music server, too. You can plug in a USB hard-drive full of digital music files. I haven't pulled the trigger yet, but I'm planning to buy an Oppo BDP-105 to replace my Blu-Ray player, CD player and my computer music server in addition to adding an SACD capability that I've never had.

Best regards,
John Elson

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 12:06:31
Mr_bill2
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Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Interesting comments, thank you.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 12:11:14
Mr_bill2
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Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Yes, I didn't mention that but the music server thing is really appealing. A game changer as far as I'm concerned in hi-end digital playback systems. I agree.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 14:22:19
Dave Billinge
Audiophile

Posts: 1008
Location: Hampshire
Joined: June 7, 2005
 I'm having trouble getting the music server aspect of the BDP105D working. It requires sensible software as a media server on the PC. What are you using? Surely not Windows Media Player?

Dave

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 15:19:52
pbarach
Audiophile

Posts: 3307
Location: Ohio
Joined: June 22, 2008
 Oppo recommends oShare, which is freeware that is easily located via Google. The latest version will send DSD64, DSD, hi-rez FLAC and WAV, mp3 files, and what have you. It sends the files without transcoding them. Oppo will send DSD files to your AVR either as DSD or PCM. It will of course output any file it receives as analog on your 105, if you like. If you have trouble, Oppo has excellent tech support.

I use oShare all the time. On my system, there is a bug where the "return" button it will sometimes make the software jump back up to the list of installed media servers on my PC instead of going up a level in my folder structure. Other people haven't reported it.

If you want to pay $50, a lot of people like JRiver Media Center, which I haven't tried.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 15:33:50
John Elison
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Posts: 23900
Location: Central Kentucky
Joined: December 20, 2000
Contributor
  Since: January 29, 2004
 I don't own a BDP-105, but I have read posts here in the Asylum that claim you can connect a hard drive containing PCM music files (or even DSD music files) and it will display them on your HDTV so they can be played using the BDP-105 remote control. I would imagine all this is explained in your manual.

I understand you can also connect a computer music server and use the BDP-105 as a DAC to play music files being streamed by software such as Foobar2000 or JRiver. I've never read anything about using Windows Media Player, though. Again, I don't own a BDP-105 yet, but I'm planning on buying one. My desire is to do away with my computer music server and simply connect my hard drive directly to the BDP-105.

Best regards,
John Elison

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 16:59:05
Sordidman
Audiophile

Posts: 13665
Location: San Francisco
Joined: May 14, 2001
 Yeah,

Good redbook in a SACD is expensive. Cheapest IMO, is Ayre's fine SACD player.

"Asylums with doors open wide,
Where people had paid to see inside,
For entertainment they watch his body twist
Behind his eyes he says, 'I still exist.'"

 

Agreed. Getting one this year too., posted on March 3, 2014 at 18:10:39
jusbe
Audiophile

Posts: 5950
Location: North Island
Joined: April 4, 2000
 I'm not into computer audio but, if possible, will seek to rip any hi-res discs to a hard drive. I think CD transports will be around much longer than SACD ones...

Big J

"... only a very few individuals understand as yet that personal salvation is a contradiction in terms."


 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 3, 2014 at 21:05:25
sleeper
Audiophile

Posts: 1166
Joined: May 21, 2002
 Like you, I ran my SCD777ES for 14 years, and replaced in in November of last year with the Marantz SA11S3. The Marantz sounds much better to my ears: smoother, better detailed, and much more "life-like". The latter quality is particularly evident in its reproduction of female vocals. The heads up comparison with the 777 that I did in my home system was an immediate win for the Marantz. So, I suggest you get your local dealer to loan you one for a home audition. The list is $4K, but you can get a better deal if you shop around.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 4, 2014 at 00:48:54
Dave Billinge
Audiophile

Posts: 1008
Location: Hampshire
Joined: June 7, 2005
 Hmmm! Tried the Source Forge download and it appears infected. Any reliable sources for oShare?

Dave

 

So Sluggo broke your current unit? n/t, posted on March 4, 2014 at 06:40:26
Awe-d-o-file
Dealer

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ET

"If at first you don't succeed, keep on sucking till you do suck seed" - Curly Howard 1936

 

For free: Foobar 2000, for money:, posted on March 4, 2014 at 08:01:36
rlw
Audiophile

Posts: 3347
Location: Near West Palm Bch, FL
Joined: August 29, 2006
 Mezzmo. Foobar has a very basic, configurable interface and can play pretty much any file type. Ya gotta invest some time learning/configuring it.

Mezzmo has a *very* slick, user-friendly interface and is a very nice piece of software. At $30, it certainly doesn't break the bank...
-RW-

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 4, 2014 at 10:06:56
bean
 Agree on the SA11S3, I liked it better than the OPPO and the 5400 when I was looking. I heard a Modwright(?) OPPO - it was impressive, but pricey.

I ended up with a lower end Marantz, not nearly as good but enjoyable on my budget.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 4, 2014 at 12:42:09
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Yeah, the SA11S3 did catch my eye(visually as well as positively reviewed), as well as the Oppo105 with Modwright upgrade. Many nice comments on both...but can anyone tell me what the heck is in the Modwright upgrade that runs $2500? I looked at the website, read the list of improvements and cannot get my head around why it costs so much. Not to mention the second the 105 gets those tube implants, gone-baby-gone is the full 2 year warranty.

 

Yeah, I hate when that happens!, posted on March 4, 2014 at 12:44:22
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 n/t

 

RE: For free: Foobar 2000, for money:, posted on March 4, 2014 at 12:50:06
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 I really like this conceptually, will need to read up on this. The price certainly warrants the time spent. Thx!

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 4, 2014 at 14:22:48
John Elison
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Posts: 23900
Location: Central Kentucky
Joined: December 20, 2000
Contributor
  Since: January 29, 2004
 I just ordered an Oppo BDP-105D. Presently, I am using Foobar2000 streaming software on a computer music server into an April Music Eximus DP1 DAC. However, when I get the Oppo BDP-105D, I won't need the music server because I intend plug my USB hard drive directly into the BDP-105D and get rid of my computer music server and my Eximus DP1 DAC.

I'll let you know how I like it when I get it setup. I imagine it will be about a week from now since I just ordered it from Oppo today. Below is a picture of my present setup with my HAL MS-1 music server.

Best regards,
John Elison


 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 4, 2014 at 21:45:04
Sprezza Tura
Audiophile

Posts: 4585
Location: New York City
Joined: August 24, 2012
 Ditching the, computer is going to be the trend going forward. Plugging a drive into a high quality file player is going to be king. Using a Mac or Windows machine or one of these stripped Frankenstein computers and playback software and a USB DAC is ever so clunky.

File players and alternatively Ethernet are going to rule the roost.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 5, 2014 at 04:37:46
Dave Billinge
Audiophile

Posts: 1008
Location: Hampshire
Joined: June 7, 2005
 Agreed - the ease with which the Oppo reads music from the USB i/p is impressive. Connecting to the PC, whilst possible, is remarkably difficult. A NAS box is the way forward.

Dave

 

I'm sold..., posted on March 5, 2014 at 06:05:10
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 The storage advantages and ease of portability of the USB have mind boggling possibilities to the world of audio/video reproduction so it seems, assuming hi rez files are able to be read correctly.

Yeah, it looks like examples of the Oppo 105 types w/ USB connectivity is the way to go.

Nice feedback to all that contributed.

Thanks everyone,
Bill

 

He's a meany! n/t, posted on March 5, 2014 at 10:43:21
Awe-d-o-file
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ET

"If at first you don't succeed, keep on sucking till you do suck seed" - Curly Howard 1936

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 6, 2014 at 04:54:16
vahe
Audiophile

Posts: 449
Location: Houston, Texas
Joined: September 11, 2005
 In $5K price range you may also want to consider Esoteric K-07, check out Audiogon. This is the lowest priced SACD player in Esoterics K line players

Vahe

 

Oppo 105 plus ModWright modifications, posted on March 6, 2014 at 06:03:00
Dave Pogue
Audiophile

Posts: 11689
Location: DC Area
Joined: October 9, 2001
 I just got mine back from ModWright two days ago, so this is far from a definitive post. But so far it sounds incredible and justifies the fact that the mod costs twice what the 105 does, for a total of ~$3600.

Dealing with ModWright has been a joy and the finished product certainly looks impressive and sounds that way too.

I use it, for now at least, only to play SACDs and CDs and the odd Blu-ray audio disc. My main objective was to end up with one player that did it all and sounds better on CDs than my Raysonic 128 does. So far, after three Sony and two other Oppo SACD/CD players, none has come close to the Raysonic on CDs This new one does, and then some.

And the tube-rolling potential is awesome, if you're into that sort of thing. Guess who is.

 

Good point..., posted on March 6, 2014 at 08:04:43
Ivan303
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Posts: 48887
Location: Cadiere d'azur FRANCE - Santa Fe, NM
Joined: February 26, 2001
 If I were in the mood for the best possible sound from silver disks, I'd likely have separate spinners for each and every format.

Were I in that market, Audio Note would be high on my list for CD player, or perhaps a solid transport (???) and an AN DAC?




First they came for the dumb-asses
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a dumb-ass

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 6, 2014 at 08:43:13
howgeif
Audiophile

Posts: 354
Location: Northern California
Joined: April 23, 2002
 I purchased the Oppo BDP-105 Blu-Ray Player and like it very much. I wanted streaming capabilities and flash drive input options in addition to playing CD’s, etc. I am very happy with the Oppo 105 Blu-Ray Player. Its sound quality is very good and I like its many other capabilities.

I like the Oppo because it can play all disk formats include SACD’s, has USB 2.0 ports for my USB drives (and hard drives) and Internet streaming from Pandora and Rhapsody. It needs an external monitor so you can see what you are doing (very important).

The Oppo 105 automatically connects to Gracenote's global media database over the Internet so it can display cover art, title, artist, genre and other media information when playing CD's. This is a very helpful feature.

The Oppo 105 was very easy to setup and connected to my Ethernet wired Internet connection automatically). I performed a firmware update and it has been playing ever since. While Wi-Fi is an option, a wired connection is highly recommended. Since I purchased the Oppo, there has been two firmware updates. Both were installed with no problems from the Internet.

I have recently moved the Oppo 105 to my video only system since it was replaced with a MAC Book Pro Computer and the Ayre QB-9 DSD DAC in my 2 channel audio system. I highly recommend the Oppo 105 for use in a 2 channel only system or in a video system. It is an outstanding unit and I highly recommended it.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 6, 2014 at 10:00:13
Dave Pogue
Audiophile

Posts: 11689
Location: DC Area
Joined: October 9, 2001
 My understanding is that the Oppo warranty is unaffected by the ModWright mod, which itself is protected by a 2-year warranty. I'm sure someone will correct the first part if I'm wrong.

As to the cost of the mod, I can fully understand, but it's worth it to me, and I've only had the modded unit for a couple days, after listening to it in stock for for weeks. Sorry I'm not good at articulating sonic improvements, or I'd do so.

Edit: I queried Kristin Boyd at ModWright about the warranty issue, and she said they handle repair work on the modified units, working directly with Oppo when necessary to procure a part. She added that the Oppos have been so reliable that ModWright hasn't had to order anything from Oppo in two years. I wouldn't have the slightest qualms personally about this, but can't answer for anyone else.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 6, 2014 at 15:47:42
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Hi Dave,

I appreciate the comments re the Modwright mod and happy to hear you are so pleased with Dan's work.

Based on what Ive read about the mod itself, it too can take up to about 200 hrs to fully break in and sound to its full peak potential. I would very much appreciate, if you remember and feel comfortable, posting a few quick observations after you log some time in, maybe a few weeks of run in. I get my unit next week(the c/s guys at Oppo are great btw) and would like some time with it stock to really evaluate what it does in my own setting before contemplating changes from something unheard. Which by then, probably gives you enough time with your modded unit to get a better feel for what the changes do from what you remember as stock.

My guess is a lot of folks here on AA wouldn't mind reading such a comparison as well, from an active member.

Regards,
Bill

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 6, 2014 at 15:55:47
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Yeah, seems the stereo 2ch set up is everyone's favorite set up. That and direct into an amp, sin preamp. Not to say the video is bad, but you can spend less within the Oppo line and do about the same for movie night, so say the reviews.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 6, 2014 at 16:19:26
Dave Pogue
Audiophile

Posts: 11689
Location: DC Area
Joined: October 9, 2001
 Be glad to do what i can. I had an audiobuddy over this afternoon to hear it in early break-in form (not quite 2 days). He left very impressed.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 7, 2014 at 18:54:56
fantja
Audiophile

Posts: 15524
Location: Alabama
Joined: September 11, 2010
 Thanks! for sharing Dave.
keep us posted as your modded player breaks-in.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 8, 2014 at 04:30:33
JCS
Audiophile

Posts: 1322
Joined: November 3, 2000
 Not sure what is wrong with your SCD-1, But not long ago I had an issue with mine, intermittent display issue and noise when playing Red Book CDs.

I sent the unit to Bill Thalmann at Music Technology, 703-764-7005. He fixed the unit quickly and professionally and VERY reasonably.

Still cannot imagine a better unit than the SCD-1 for anything near its price.

 

Doubt you'll find better sound under $2K. More featurs? Yeah but not better sound..., posted on March 8, 2014 at 05:33:26
Ivan303
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Posts: 48887
Location: Cadiere d'azur FRANCE - Santa Fe, NM
Joined: February 26, 2001
 If you like how it sounds and you can get it fixed for under $1,000 you might be way ahead.

I suspect you can.




First they came for the dumb-asses
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a dumb-ass

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 8, 2014 at 15:43:52
geofft559
 I listened to stock SCD-XA5400ES for about a year before having another modified with Vacuum State Terra Firma. I have no question that in my listening space with my components the Vacuum State mods noticeably improved Redbook disc SQ. By improve I mean zero listening fatigue without any loss in resolution gain in detail. I've heard wider/deeper soundstaging on more expensive players such as the Esoteric K-03 (the transport light years better than on the Oppo/Sony players) and a tubed EAR (Redbook only) player. With Vacuum State 5400 breathing from reeds, chair squeaks, patter of audience on live recordings all sounded better with the Vacuum State unit. There is however much honesty that everyone's situation, space, hearing, components, etc. etc. vary from that of others. I think Jack Roberts Dagogo review of the Vacuum State SCD-XA5400ES was spot on, even down to his appreciative comments about the Marantz Pearl disc player which I had in shop awhile. Even with the improvements in Dac's since 2006/7 the stock 5400 is worth buying today, but I understand many want more bells and whistles of something like the top Oppo. I had the previous top Oppo and it was pretty good especially for retail price but not my favorite compared to the bone stock 5400, but especially not as good as the Vacuum State modified 5400 but that's unfair comparison in price. Better compare the modified 5400 (either Modwright or Vacuum State) with the better Marantz players.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 8, 2014 at 16:14:24
fantja
Audiophile

Posts: 15524
Location: Alabama
Joined: September 11, 2010
 Welcome and Thanks! for sharing.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 9, 2014 at 08:31:51
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 I have spoken with Bill Thalmann recently about my issue with my SCD-1, after a lot of questions and listening(he was exceptionally helpful and forthright) to what he had to say, we kind of determined it was the laser that was starting to go bad. He did recommend I open the machine and give both lens a good clean to which I did but to no affect. He then went on to suggest I to start looking for new lasers if I wanted to stay with the player for the foreseeable future. He also did suggest staying away from used units, as in his experience they mostly tend to be as spent as the one you are replacing.

So I did...,and the quantity of new offerings were almost zero, used offerings were very few, pricing on both was just ridiculous. Coming to a conclusion, I just didn't want to become hostage to resellers of Sony parts to keep my SCD-1 going no matter now much I loved this unit. So, remembering what Bill had said and the fact that Sony has abandoned providing new part replacements, has left me thinking it was time to let someone else, hopefully who had the foresight to stock up on maintenance parts, to have a chance to own this top end and notable piece of history.

One final note, speaking with Bill T, he did say they too do mods to the Oppo 105, which he did have a lot of good things to say about. I'm not going into details as I'd rather not quote others here, but frankly he was super impressed with this current Oppo offering.

Sadly the SCD-1's time, for me, has come...

Regards,
Bill

 

RE: Doubt you'll find better sound under $2K. More featurs? Yeah but not better sound..., posted on March 9, 2014 at 08:42:32
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Yes, you are correct but for how long and to what end...throwing money towards possible antiquation, especially when looking at a ~$1000 repair bill.

Thanks,
Bill

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 9, 2014 at 09:13:35
oldmkvi
Audiophile

Posts: 10583
Joined: April 12, 2002
 Hi, I agree about the CD playback with the VSE- much, much better.
SACD is too laid back for me, and the midrange is very recessed, probabaly would be interpreted as more depth, but I much prefer the tonal balance of of the stock unit.
It's not as open and spacious, but is more immediate, solid and colorful. The VSE sounds almost hazy, due to being pushed back.
Mine was the first one done in the US, and the Analog section was still in development, and the output level is a good bit lower on the VSE.
Bill Thalman was unable to raise the VSE to the 2 volts, it's a still a little lower, and I wonder if that accounts for what I'm hearing.
I plan to send it back to Bill, to have the Analog section removed and replaced with the Current version.
I don't think I got what everyone else who has one got, I hope that he can fix that! ( for more $, of course).
I should have waited, but patience is not one of my strengths!
Will report, but will be a few weeks, I'm sure.
Meanwhile, Loving my PCM D 100, and hope to get the Z1 at some point…

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 9, 2014 at 10:43:10
geofft559
 Your follow-up interesting. My 5400 was upgraded by Warren G. in California 2011. I've not heard any haziness in either CD or SACD playback with modified 5400. Something is not right if you've heard haziness. Please update when you get your 5400 back and put a week or two playback on it before posting. Be interested to hear your outcome. One caveat that pertains to disc players in general, poorly recorded discs will not sound that good even on those top tier Esoteric, dCS, Playback Design, etc., let alone on more modest priced players modified or not. Bill has a great reputation and should put things straight if doable.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 9, 2014 at 11:28:31
oldmkvi
Audiophile

Posts: 10583
Joined: April 12, 2002
 Did you notice any difference in Volume control setting, before/after?
I'll call Bill tomorrow, and see what's up.

 

Maybe, but the 'all in one' solutions.., posted on March 9, 2014 at 16:36:24
Ivan303
Audiophile

Posts: 48887
Location: Cadiere d'azur FRANCE - Santa Fe, NM
Joined: February 26, 2001
 may end up being so compromised in one respect or the other that they become 'all in none' solutions.

At least in the $2K price range.

If you like the sound, the best disk spinner under $2500 might be a repair on the disk spinner you own.

My 'mid-fi' digital solution is a used Marantz DV-9600 for spinning disks ($260 on ebay) and for computer audio the discontinued Marantz NA-7004 ($400 new).

Good but not great.

But I'm a vinyl guy.




First they came for the dumb-asses
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a dumb-ass

 

See my post above on the Sony HAP-Z1ES, posted on March 10, 2014 at 10:17:41
Prisoners
Audiophile

Posts: 4493
Location: Chicago
Joined: June 13, 2004
 It sounds fantastic and is very easy to use. The only qualifier is that you need to load your music on your computer first. From there it's all automatic. It's also worth noting that if you have a large collection of SACD you won't be able to transfer them because of copyright protection, but a very good SACD player can be had for under $200 as people "upgrade" to Blu Ray players.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 10, 2014 at 11:04:57
geofft559
 n/a

 

Thanks for the follow-up, posted on March 11, 2014 at 07:43:27
Metralla
Audiophile

Posts: 7801
Location: San Jose, California
Joined: January 30, 2001
 Sadly the SCD-1's time, for me, has come..

So it seems. Keep us informed of your new direction.

Regards,
Geoff

 

It's kind of bitter sweet..., posted on March 11, 2014 at 16:30:35
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Having only logged about 2 days of continuous play(set of repeat of course) and one spin of the old PAD revB system enhancer, I have to say the Oppo 105 is kicking the crap out of my old SCD-1, sadly.

After going into the 105 and making all the adjustments to max out performance for 2 CH audio reproduction(great idea from the Oppo boys), I have to admit this is one really quite surprisingly excellent player as compared to my previous, though I must say, and to be fair I do recognized the laser on my SCD-1 was on the outs and not working as factory fresh.

I'll do a little follow up after a couple weeks or so and report what has changed but for now I am completely satisfied with this product and even if it were to stop advancing in sound quality right here, I'd be pretty happy based on my cash outlay. So far, I'm getting punch in the low end to die for, natural mids - fat and warm(hey - just how I like them, I'm a tube guy for god's sake) and a lack of the hi freq sizzles. Highs do seem a tad recessed right now but I'm hoping they open up just a bit more with the required 200 hr break in. Either that or I'm just use to my ears burning after a couple hrs of play with my pervious player. Somewhat serious here.


I can without reservation recommend this player to anyone looking at a new CD/SACD player in the under 5k range without hesitation, and you even get a 30 day full refund with shipping if for some crazy reason it doesn't float your boat or more so you are needy for a premier name tag to impress the kiddies! OK, I best stop here, LOL.








 

Interim Oppo update, posted on March 12, 2014 at 05:42:27
Dave Pogue
Audiophile

Posts: 11689
Location: DC Area
Joined: October 9, 2001
 My modded 105 continues to bloom and impress after maybe 50-75 hours. A new rectifier tube is due today and last night I pulled the plug on a pair of NOS 1958 Sylvania 6SN7 tubes to replace the stock Electro Harmonix pair. I'm may be overkilling this, but the 105 is certainly worth the effort, at least iMHO.

More to come.

 

RE: Interim Oppo update, posted on March 12, 2014 at 10:21:54
fantja
Audiophile

Posts: 15524
Location: Alabama
Joined: September 11, 2010
 Thanks! for the update Dave. You should really notice a substantial difference (better) after 200 hrs. Keep us posted!

 

RE: It's kind of bitter sweet..., posted on March 14, 2014 at 19:34:17
John Elison
Audiophile

Posts: 23900
Location: Central Kentucky
Joined: December 20, 2000
Contributor
  Since: January 29, 2004
 I checked all your recommended settings on my Oppo and made changes where necessary to ensure they were all as you suggested. I think my Oppo might be sounding better, but as you say it's a little recessed in the highs. The midrange is nice, though. Bass is still not as tight as my Eximus DP1 DAC, but it might be a little better that before. I think the Oppo was voiced for people who like tube equipment. It just gives me that impression. Quite frankly, that might be a good sonic signature for a lot of digital recordings. I'm going to try some real digital stuff tomorrow or the next day. I've been playing 24/96 copies of vinyl records and also some 24/192 copies of analog master tapes. It sounds a little better than before, but it just doesn't have impact and transparency of my other DAC on these types of analog/digital recordings.

Best regards,
John Elison

 

RE: It's kind of bitter sweet..., posted on March 14, 2014 at 21:11:13
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Keep going John, I'm on day 5 of break in and to my surprise it keeps getting better and better, I will hit ~200 hrs on Monday. I've been sneaking a listen here and there since I started the progress and the changes have been easily discernible.

 

RE: It's kind of bitter sweet..., posted on March 16, 2014 at 15:11:49
fantja
Audiophile

Posts: 15524
Location: Alabama
Joined: September 11, 2010
 Happy Listening!

 

RE: It's kind of bitter sweet..., posted on March 21, 2014 at 19:59:13
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Just wanted to follow up on my results and report back.

Officially today, have decided the Oppo 105 is a keeper. It has complete!y surpassed my Sony SCD-1 that it replaces and a few other new units I had the opportunity to audition locally at some hi-end audio salons in my area.

After extensive break in and paying close attention to audio 2CH set up, the Oppo 105 has exceeded my expectations for digital playback in my system...and all for $1200!

 

RE: It's kind of bitter sweet..., posted on March 22, 2014 at 05:41:17
John Elison
Audiophile

Posts: 23900
Location: Central Kentucky
Joined: December 20, 2000
Contributor
  Since: January 29, 2004
 > Officially today, have decided the Oppo 105 is a keeper.

I'm beginning to lean in that same direction. I decided to begin listening and I'm getting used to the Oppo's sonic signature. It actually sounds pretty good on a number of recordings. I don't know if it has improved or whether I've just gotten used to its sonic signature, but I'm beginning to like what I hear. The end of the month will be my final decision point.

Best regards,
John Elison

 

RE: It's kind of bitter sweet..., posted on March 22, 2014 at 09:28:45
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Hi John,

Your listening preferences might be a bit different than mine, but it seems we both tend to favor analog over digital, based on past posts. When I first got the Oppo 105 and plugged it in, I was pretty disappointed with the sound out of the box. But, today I must say it is a completely different story for me. Surprisingly I'm super happy with the player and it's ability to do so much for so little, and keeping in mind 2CH stereo was always my goal here. On weekends when I have the time and I really get into lisening session, I do opt for my analog rig, does it sound better, um..yes. Do I not enjoy my Oppo after a weekend of vinyl, no! I get reminded how close to playing vinyl it goes, unlike my last CD/SACD player. It even has allowed me to make finer speaker adjustmens to further take advantage of sound staging that my Eminent Technology ET8b does so well. Never saw that one coming!

To answer your concern, is it better or are you just getting use to the sonic signature? I would suggest, who cares if you are enjoying the moment. I tend to enjoy the journey and the learning experiences different audio gear offers, luckly digital has gotten less expensive to do right, and we get to benefit by the technology.

Good luck with your journey, in the end you have the choice, which is the best thing of all, to keep it or send it back with no stings attached.

Best,
Bill

 

RE: It's kind of bitter sweet..., posted on March 22, 2014 at 12:00:21
John Elison
Audiophile

Posts: 23900
Location: Central Kentucky
Joined: December 20, 2000
Contributor
  Since: January 29, 2004
 > When I first got the Oppo 105 and plugged it in, I was pretty disappointed with the sound out of the box.

I had the same reaction. I too am interested in two-channel stereo only. However, I had an excellent reference digital system already. My desire for the Oppo was to consolidate all my digital audio and video into a single component. It had to have balanced outputs because my system is fully balanced. Furthermore, I had never owned an SACD player, so I thought I could add SACD to my system while consolidating everything else. It's just that when I connected the Oppo and listened to my first digital file, it sounded so unexpectedly different that I was taken aback.

The thing I like most about the Oppo is that it removes a lot of the clutter on my fireplace mantel. Here is a "before" picture and a couple of "after" pictures.







 

RE: It's kind of bitter sweet..., posted on March 22, 2014 at 16:53:09
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002



You need some serious space, LOL!

 

Where's the Oppo? ;-) /nt\, posted on March 22, 2014 at 19:10:53
John Elison
Audiophile

Posts: 23900
Location: Central Kentucky
Joined: December 20, 2000
Contributor
  Since: January 29, 2004

 

RE: Where's the Oppo? ;-) /nt\, posted on March 22, 2014 at 20:43:13
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002


Oops! New pic to come....and here they are, but sorry about pic quality, my iPad camera is not state of the art.

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 27, 2014 at 12:03:38
JCS
Audiophile

Posts: 1322
Joined: November 3, 2000
 Looks you did what you could.

Best of luck!

 

RE: Oh no, I need a new player!, posted on March 30, 2014 at 15:47:07
Mr_bill2
Audiophile

Posts: 2178
Joined: September 17, 2002
 Thanks JCS,

It's been a weird learning experience and one I didn't expect to be able to live with but I stand corrected.

BTW, nice system, checked out your pics...love those Extremas and Sunfire sub combo!

Bill

 

Thanks, posted on March 31, 2014 at 03:09:36
JCS
Audiophile

Posts: 1322
Joined: November 3, 2000
 To this day I have yet to hear speakers under $35K that beat my combo of speakers!

My whole focus now is purely on the music and an occasional tweak.

Thanks and good luck going forward.

 

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