That's a couple versions up from my OPPO HD 981. I have it connected 3 ways - 5.1 SACD analog, and both digital RCA and optical output signal's. I can do live A/B comparison's immediately by pressing the CD source button on my pro.
As a strict transport, it's not as clean as my matching Proceed transport through the digital AES/EBU connection. However, the 981 is a very nice and well-balanced source player. It sounds very smooth and dynamic through it's own DAC's on SACD's and as a transport. The RCA digital out adds a little more resolution over the optical connection with a glass Van Den Hul cable. The 981 sounds great through Mogami Gold analog and digital cables.
If I was buying, I'd go with either the 93 or 95. Because my pro has balanced analog inputs, I'd likely go with the 95. OPPO told me I wouldn't hear much difference in the digital output between my 981 and the new 95. I'd definatley consider the 93 if you don't have balanced analog inputs on your pro. OPPO's service is great, too.
As a strict transport, it's not as clean as my matching Proceed transport through the digital AES/EBU connection. However, the 981 is a very nice and well-balanced source player. It sounds very smooth and dynamic through it's own DAC's on SACD's and as a transport. The RCA digital out adds a little more resolution over the optical connection with a glass Van Den Hul cable. The 981 sounds great through Mogami Gold analog and digital cables.
If I was buying, I'd go with either the 93 or 95. Because my pro has balanced analog inputs, I'd likely go with the 95. OPPO told me I wouldn't hear much difference in the digital output between my 981 and the new 95. I'd definatley consider the 93 if you don't have balanced analog inputs on your pro. OPPO's service is great, too.