Which of these SACD players would you choose?

I compared the Integra CD player using an analog connection tonight and it sounded very similar to the borrowed pioneer. I wasn't expecting the two CD players that are different brands and ages to sound more similar than the Integra CD player compared to itself using digital and analog connections. It seems the Integra 50.1 receiver must be using a different D/A converter to yield such a different sound. I'm not sure which one give the sound that is the closest to what was intended in the recording.

How many hours on Integra VS Pioneer?

Without question given its chip set, I would recommend the Oppo BDP-80, not the SE. I have a modified unit done by John Tucker of Exemplar and have never heard such outstanding reproduction of sacds. It also does HDCDs and they also are the best I have heard.

I think maybe you mean the 83, Norm? (i.e., not the 80) Too bad all of Oppo's numbers begin with an 8!

Re the Oppos and quality: the 83 is my 3rd over 3 years, and the quality/reliability of all of them has been outstanding. I have also found their customer service to be exemplary.

"How many hours on Integra VS Pioneer?" - The Pioneer is probably over 8 years old and the Integra is fairly new. I'm not sure why that matters as they nearly sound the same. The biggest difference is from going from Integra analog to Integra digital. I wouldn't think that a D/A converter changes with use?

As for the Oppo products, I've seen a lot of recommendations for Oppo, but many of them are linked to modified units. Seems similar to telling someone you prefer Camaro's over Mustang's, and then clarifying that you have a Camaro modified by Lingenfelter Performance.

The Oppo 80 would have been an excellent option for me, but I think the Elite will serve my needs/wants better. The placebo effect of knowing that it was designed for 2 channel audio will make it sound excellent I'm sure. I likely won't ever get to do a side by side with an Oppo so I'll be fat dump and happy for a long time.