Add I2s to Oppo players?

I do not like the idea of using a box to convert the HDMI from the OPPO to I2s…I just don’t like the idea of a $40 Chinese box between the Oppo and Venus II.

If the Oppo doesn’t output i2S, which it likely does not, you don’t wanna use its HDMI output for audio anyway, period (unless if it’s for the limited use case of passing a native DSD signal if the Oppo even has that capability). For audio in general you’re better off using the USB, SPDIF, AES/EBU outs to a DDC like the Hermes I mentioned above and let that do the conversion to i2S.

 As DSD from SACD only 64, I will just use the optical input and get rid of the cheap box. The Venus II is far beyond my expectations for DAC for the cost. Sitting in the middle of Denafrips line it has all I want and nothing I don't. {except 2 optical inputs.The impressive construction, and design along with price is what I settled on after months of looking. SACD is nice, but some BLU-RAY's  and DVD-A are incredible as well. No Regrets.

I’m honestly having a hard time following what you’re doing as the info of your system has come in piecemeal, but if I’m reading right you’re still using a computer as a source into your very nice Venus DAC.  If that’s the case that should be the first thing you should address and add a dedicated streamer that’ll up your performance significantly.  Likewise, adding a DDC and converting to i2S is another area for significant sonic improvements, and I’ll call on @vthokie83 yet again as he can tell you his experience upgrading to i2S with his Denafrips Pontus II.  FWIW.

Sorry I am not clear. The only source is the OPPO. So far.  I use the optical to the DAC and the #1 OPPO HDMI output to a cheap box that extracts digital from SACD's ,because DSD will not come through optical. The extracted signal from the black box goes into the Venus II I2s input. I don't like extra step.I also can play Blu Ray or DVD-A through the HDMI into I2s.  But suggestions from other answers have me thinking like the DOB. Regardless the detailed, non fatiguing sound, is amazing. I should leave be and concentrate on some XLR cables as the system is balanced from the Venus to my Schiit Loki Max to my Mojilnor STAX Headamp then his modded STAX Earspeaker. No speakers here. Any suggestions for 1-3 foot XLR  below $500?