I have the RAM-modified 970, and it is stunning, both on audio and video. FWIW, RAM did a demo at RMAF in which they compared a modified 970 to a stock Esoteric UX-1 (a ~$13,000 player). Almost everyone preferred the Oppo. If that's not a testimonial, I don't know what is.
Reference Audio Mod Oppo 970 – How good is it ?
I already have a dedicated redbook CD player which satisfy, but would like a second budget player which can play the SACD discs that I have. It interests me when the Absolute Sound nominate the Oppo 970 the budget component of the year and name it a “giant killer”. With the Reference Audio Mod still it is not too expensive. I would welcome any opinion on this modified unit or better alternative.