Sorry, a question about the Sony SCDXA5400ES.

Not to get off course, but I have searched and not really found much directly comparing the oppo 83se and the sony 5400. This would be interesting.

Jetter, searching for a direct comparison, I had the same experience. I previously owned the Sony 5400, and got an Oppo 83SE to audition. Verdict IMHO: for 2 channel stereo the Sony 5400 is better. Oppo Digital also has a great return policy. A well-known modder agrees ... the Sony is superior to the Oppo 83SE in stock form. I elected to get a modified Oppo 83 (non-SE) and sell the Sony. It's about the same cost (~$1,500), PLUS it's one less box - as the Oppo BDP-83 replaces both the Sony and my old Oppo 980H.

Strateahed, what mods did you have done and by who? I'm looking to get a modded Oppo 83 SE soon but not sure which one I want to get. Thanks.

Traded my Rega Saturn for the 5400 (wanted a player that would do SACD). I prefer the 5400. As others have suggested, you will ultimately have to decide for yourself if you agree or not. Good luck.

Joeyboynj, it's the basic mod from Dan @ Modwright Instruments ($950). Check his website for more details. Based on very positive prior experience, I would have gone with Paul Weitzel @ TRL; but he stopped doing Oppo mods for some reason.

FYI, if you're considering RAM, compare Kyle's detailed mod list to Doug Jesse @ ASI Tek ... pretty much dead on. That is, ASI Tek appears to do basically the same thing as RAM, for less money. I believe Doug and Kyle worked together under RAM before going separate ways. I have the ASI Tek modded Oppo 980H ... overall an excellent machine, but not quite the top performer in my system.