Why is Oppo stopping products.

Yes, I am in dual use mode for my system, all output from 103 exits thru analog output jacks. Using the 103 for D/A conversion makes sense for my system and I like the way it sounds... This has also given me opportunity to compare 103 in two channel setting with my dac and modded transport etc.OPPO gear is worth the money they are asking.

"I'd be curious how many people have a dual-use system for both HT and 2-channel music though. I have my 2-channel rig in a separate room from the HT, and I don't do any music listening in the HT room."

Hello tutetibimperes,

     I have a dual use system for both ht and 2-ch music in my living room.  The Oppo 105 is the device that makes it all possible.  I'm not sure how common this is.

     For 2-ch music, I use the 105 and a 2 TB NAS (containing my entire CD collection as 16/44 files and a growing number of 24/96 FLAC files that were recorded direct to digital) with both connected via ethernet cables to my Xfinity cable router/modem.   I use a wireless laptop running JRiver to control playback from the NAS and streaming audio sites.  The 105 is used as a preamp and DAC for these functions with the main l+r  stereo analog outputs connected directly to my mono-blocks via XLR cables.
     For ht, I use the 105 to playback 1080p Bluray discs and stream content from Netflix, Amazon Prime and Xfinity on Demand.  I use the 105's internal surround processor with the analog 5.1 surround channel outputs connected directly to separate amps via rca cables.  

     I was considering getting the Oppo 205 and a 4K OLED hdtv when I heard about Oppo getting out of the market.  I was thinking I could just swap out the 105 with the 205 and things would function just as well as they do  with the 105 but have the added benefits of 4K , HDR10 and Dolby Vision .  I now understand that even if I manage to buy a 205, I'll need to buy some added hardware to have things operate as well with the 4K 205 as they have with the 1080p 105.
     Now, I'm starting to realize I may be better off just being satisfied with my 1080p 105 and plasma hdtv.  I know the 4K is unlikely to be a significant improvement for me due to my 12-14 ft. viewing distance.  The main benefits I'll perceive are improved colors with the new HDR10 and Dolby Vision mostly with future content.  However,  I'll be sacrificing audio quality and convenience by using the 205 unless I Jerry-rig some extra hardware to my system.
      So, I need to determine whether to spend about $3,000 on an Oppo 205, 65" LG B7 OLED hdtv and a Roku or similar device for improved color reproduction and keeping my current functionality with streaming music and video   OR     keep the $3K,remain satisfied with a 1080p 105 and plasma for another 5-10 yrs and  await the next technological breakthroughs in audio/video reproduction.

    I'm seriously leaning toward the latter option right now.

Tim

HI guys, OPPO is a Chinese company that makes cell phones (not sold in the USA).  They are a huge company and Audio to them was just a side business.  They have elected to focus on their other business which make them more money.  It is that simple.  To many competitors in the audio markets.  Hope this helps.  They are going to continue to service their product lines while the parts last.  Probably no more software updates.

To me, if Oppo raised the price of the 205 even $500 more they would still sell well to the niche market that they appeal to.

ozzy

Hi ozzy,

     I agree that the niche market Oppo sells to would still buy the 205 if they raised the price by $500, I know I would.  
     But I don't think $500 more profit per unit would have any affect on their decision.to cease production.   I suspect Oppo perceived a lot of instability and uncertainty in the abundant and crucial technology incorporated within their players.   This uncertainty involves factors such as the near term future of various physical media and of the licensing agreements, resolution and consistent updating of the various audio/video streaming services and codecs.   
     It was likely a decision mainly based on the projected financial returns of investing and producing a more stable alternative product with a more predictable near term future and costs that are not trending upwards.
Tim