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My Blu-Ray HDMI conundrum

A few months ago replaced my analog multi channel preamp (McCormack MAP-1) with an upgraded Onkyo 855, and went all multi channel digital. I did so because the Onkyo produded glorious multi channel SACD sound with my Sony XA 5400 CD/SACD player over HDMI (far better than what I was used to using the McCormack). However, for some reason, using the Onkyo with my Denon 2500 Blu Ray transport over HDMI is a big dissapointment on the audio side of things (video is stellar). Although I cannot do an A/B (Denon has no analog outs), I suspect the analog route would sound better on Blu-Ray. I could ditch my Denon 2500, get a player with multi channel analog outs and run multi channel analog through the Onkyo. I could get a Denon Pre/Pro and run high rez digital through the proprietary Denon Link (an expensive proposition). I could get my Denon 2500 upgraded. I am looking for any advise on how to get better audio out of blu ray.
edorr
ckorody
643 posts
 
I am not familiar with the Denon but I was surprised to read your commentary? Though not as surprised as you were to write it I'm sure.

I found this one application note in a review:

"One of the most attractive feature sof this player is its ability to output HD audio codecs in their raw bitstream format. For someone like me who owns a dedicated AV processor, this is a preferred choice because the high quality components in the AV processor allow the sound to be reproduced exquisitely. To enable this feature HD Audio output should be set to Normal. If itÂ’s set to HD Mix then the player sends the audio as a 5.1 PCM signal. HD Mix is actually a feature used for special pip content on a BD disc."

Would be worth checking these settings as the reviewer ran his into an Integra 9.8 and was very happy.

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/dvd-players/439-a-secrets-dvd-blu-ray-player-benchmark-review.html

I personally do not like closed systems, so I would not invest in the Denon pre/pro... especially when it doesn't add any other capabilitiess

You can get the new Oppo BDP83 or one of the new Panasonics with both analog and HDMI, plus Ethernet, better DVD playback as a bonus and a much wider range of formats.

If I went this route I would start with the HDMI, postponing the investment in seven premium ICs, which ould easily exceed the cost of a new player.

If and when the analog test is deemed essential, or your curiousity gets the best of you, easy enough to add in the cables.

FWIW I have read nothing to support your theory - which is not to say that it is wrong, just that it is not commonly reported.

Could it be that your gear is not running to spec? Any posts about that from other disgruntled owners on http://www.avsforum.com/ ?
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vjay00
37 posts
 
You could replace both of your players with the OPPO BDP-83 for $499. It will give you all the options.

I have the OPPO BDP-83 - the best bargain in HiFi AV right now. I use the 7.1 out exclusively for everything - CD, DD, DTS, DD-HD. DTS-HD, SACD and DVD-Audio. All decoding and speaker settings are in the player. BR video and HD sound is exceptional, and CD/SACD/DVDA/DD/DTS are very good, even though the player is obviously optimized for BR/HD. You can also get SACD/DVDA over HDMI if you so prefer.
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