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My Blu-Ray HDMI conundrum

A few months ago replaced my analog multi channel preamp (McCormack MAP-1) with an upgraded Onkyo 855, and went all multi channel digital. I did so because the Onkyo produded glorious multi channel SACD sound with my Sony XA 5400 CD/SACD player over HDMI (far better than what I was used to using the McCormack). However, for some reason, using the Onkyo with my Denon 2500 Blu Ray transport over HDMI is a big dissapointment on the audio side of things (video is stellar). Although I cannot do an A/B (Denon has no analog outs), I suspect the analog route would sound better on Blu-Ray. I could ditch my Denon 2500, get a player with multi channel analog outs and run multi channel analog through the Onkyo. I could get a Denon Pre/Pro and run high rez digital through the proprietary Denon Link (an expensive proposition). I could get my Denon 2500 upgraded. I am looking for any advise on how to get better audio out of blu ray.
edorr
Post removed 
vjay00
37 posts
 
You could replace both of your players with the OPPO BDP-83 for $499. It will give you all the options.

I have the OPPO BDP-83 - the best bargain in HiFi AV right now. I use the 7.1 out exclusively for everything - CD, DD, DTS, DD-HD. DTS-HD, SACD and DVD-Audio. All decoding and speaker settings are in the player. BR video and HD sound is exceptional, and CD/SACD/DVDA/DD/DTS are very good, even though the player is obviously optimized for BR/HD. You can also get SACD/DVDA over HDMI if you so prefer.
edorr OP
714 posts
 
Thanks for suggestions everyone. The solution is obvious: First get myself an Oppo BDP-83 and do a shootout against the Denon over HDMI. Then compare the Oppo HDMI out with its 5 channel analog out (I have plenty top notch cables lying around). Best of all, if the Oppo does not get me better Audio I send it back with full money guarantee. A no brainer when you think about it...
vjay00
37 posts
 
Edorr, if you do get the Oppo BDP-83 now (7/09), please make sure you download the latest public beta firmware release and update the player before you do any testing. This firmware is necessary to fix some of the SACD/DVD-A issues. The player's SACD performance is excellent after the update. There are no issues with the HDMI connection.
ozzy's avatar
ozzy
7,499 posts
 
Vjay00 , I have the Oppo BP 83. Where do you go to get the firmware update.
I cany find anything on the website.
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