Question on digital output of Oppo 103D using HDMI


I am on the hunt for another DAC, to replace my Marantz SA8005. One thought was possibly a DS Mk1 or Pontus 2, both have I2S inputs.

 

The SA8005 can only output through coax or SPDIF, not the USB. Since I also have the 103D, can I output redbook CD's via HDMI from the 103D and use the I2S of the DS or Pontus2? Or is this a different pinout requiring the Oppomod?

I will try the outputs of the SA8005 as well but looking to cover all bases.

dyl71

can I output redbook CD's via HDMI from the 103D and use the I2S of the DS or Pontus2?

Unfortunately no.  The HDMI Audio out of the Oppo is only for Dolby/DTS formats and does not support i2S.  To get i2S you’d need to get a DDC with an SPDIF input like a Denafrips Hermes, but  that costs almost $1300 so not an insignificant expense.  But regardless, something like the Pontus 2 or Direct Stream DAC should be a significant step up in performance even using an SPDIF connection from the Oppo or Marantz.  Hope this helps.