Would anyone recommend the BDP-80 Oppo region-free PAL/NTSC player? (1 Viewer)

[Dick]

There are at least a dozen great films in other countries available in Blu-ray but are region-locked, plus a few PAL DVD's, that I am anxious to own and which aren't available in the U.S. Has anyone experience with Oppo? I had never heard of the company until I started looking into region-free stuff.

This one purports not only to play ALL Blu-ray regions, but has a built-in PAL-NTSC converter. I am sure the region-free part works fine, but have a few questions about the format conversion. I had an outboard PAL-NTSC converter once, but found that playback of PAL discs did odd things to make up for the frame rate difference, usually in the form of producing slightly smeared images, and/or ones that jerked with any movement. I am assuming (correctly?) that this would occur with an inboard converter also, or is there some additional circuitry in the machine that compensates for or overcomes this problem? This would cost me abouit four hundred bucks, so I want some advice before making up my mind. Thanks in advance.

Here are the specs:

Overview
The BDP-80 is a full-featured universal Blu-ray Disc™ player that supports BD Profile 2.0 (BD-Live and BonusView), DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, Super Audio CD (SACD), HDCD, CD and other popular media formats such as AVCHD, MKV video files, digital photos and music. Sharing the same decoder and similarly optimized firmware as OPPO’s award-winning BDP-83, the BDP-80 features fast disc load times, quick response to user operations, and robust audio and video controls. In contrast to the BDP-83, which utilizes an onboard VRS by Anchor Bay video processor, the BDP-80 design has been optimized for use as a digital audio/video transport, emphasizing the accuracy of its digital audio/video outputs. At the same time, the BDP-80 is versatile enough to be used as a stand-alone universal Blu-ray player, thanks to its full array of output connections and audio/video decoding capabilities.
For video, the BDP-80 features an HDMI 1.3 port that supports 1080p Full HD, 1080p 24Hz, Deep Color and Source Direct modes. Component video, S-Video and Composite video connections are also available for legacy analog displays. In addition to its faithful reproduction of high-definition pictures on Blu-ray Discs, the player can up-convert DVD from standard definition up to 1080p to maximize DVD picture quality. Its "Source Direct" output mode makes the BDP-80 incredibly well suited as a digital transport to feed into an external video processor, a high-end A/V receiver or display device with built-in video processing. Unique features such as subtitle shift and vertical stretch zoom mode makes the player an ideal source component for home theaters with 2.35:1 CIH (Constant Image Height) displays.
For audio, the BDP-80 supports internal decoding and bitstream output of the latest sound formats including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master audio. The BDP-80 also features a configurable 7.1-channel analog output that can be set as 7.1-channel, 5.1-channel, or stereo. When playing SACD, the BDP-80 can output DSD (Direct Stream Digital) over HDMI in its native format or convert it into high-resolution PCM. For compatibility with many legacy A/V receivers and DACs, the BDP-80 also provides an optical and coaxial digital audio output.
The initial setup of the BDP-80 is a breeze with its Easy Setup Wizard and well-written manual. Setup menus on the player can be accessed without interruption to disc playback. The front and back USB 2.0 ports enable easy access to music, photo and video files. The BDP-80 comes standard with 1GB of internal storage built-in so that no additional memory card or flash drive is needed to use BD-Live and BonusView features. Featuring a front panel with brushed metallic appearance and a dimmable display, the BDP-80 fits nicely in any home theater environment, ranging from simple to high-end.
Features
Complete Media Support:

• Blu-ray Disc - The high definition Blu-ray Disc™ format provides pristine video and audio quality for your home entertainment.
• BonusVIEW - BD "Profile 1.1" enables "picture-in-picture" and secondary audio features for viewing director or actor commentary while the main movie is playing.
• BD-Live™ - BDP-80 supports BD "Profile 2.0" and contains all necessary hardware - audio/video decoder, Ethernet port, and 1GB of internal storage - for BD-Live.
• DVD Up-Conversion - The BDP-80 up-converts DVD from standard definition up to 1080p output. The up-converted video maximizes DVD picture quality and bridges the visual gap from your current DVD library to Blu-ray discs.
• DVD-Audio - The BDP-80 plays DVD-Audio and supports both stereo and multi-channel high resolution audio programs. Users can select whether to play the DVD-Audio or the DVD-Video portion of the disc.
• SACD - The BDP-80 plays Super Audio CD (SACD) and supports both stereo and multi-channel high resolution audio programs. The BDP-80 can output DSD (Direct Stream Digital) over HDMI in its native format or convert into PCM. (Analog audio output for SACD supports PCM mode only, and is not available when DSD over HDMI is in use.)
• Additional Media Formats - Additional disc and file formats, such as audio CD, HDCD, Kodak Picture CD, AVCHD, MKV, and other audio/video/picture files on recorded discs or USB drives can be played back on the BDP-80.

Excellent Video Quality:

• Full HD 1080p Output - The BDP-80 features user selectable video output resolutions, including 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, and up to 1080p 50 or 60Hz.
• True 24p™ Video - Many Blu-ray Discs are recorded at 24 frames per second, the same frame rate as the original movie's theatrical release. The BDP-80 can faithfully redeliver the original frames using 1080p 24Hz output (compatible display required) for smoother motion and a flicker-free, film-like home theater experience.
• Source Direct Mode - For users who wish to use an external video processor, high-end audio/video receiver or display, the BDP-80 offers a ™Source Direct™ mode. The original audio/video content on the discs is sent out with no additional processing or alteration.
• Multiple Zoom Modes - The BDP-80 supports multiple levels of aspect ratio control and image zooming, including a vertical stretch mode for customers with a 2.35:1 CIH (Constant Image Height) display system.
• Subtitle Shift - The BDP-80 is able to shift subtitles up or down on the video screen. This feature makes it possible to see all subtitle text when using a 2.35:1 CIH display system.
• HDMI - HDMI is an all digital interface for the cleanest possible connection. It delivers high-quality digital video and audio through a single cable. The BDP-80 features an HDMI v1.3 output with 30-bit and 36-bit Deep Color support.

High Fidelity Audio:

• Dolby® TrueHD - Dolby TrueHD delivers lossless studio master quality audio designed specifically for high definition entertainment. The BDP-80 supports bit-stream output of Dolby TrueHD via its HDMI 1.3 output. It can also internally decode Dolby TrueHD into LPCM and output via HDMI or the 7.1ch analog audio output terminals. (Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus audio formats are also supported.)
• DTS-HD Master Audio™ - DTS-HD Master Audio delivers an auditory experience that matches the lifelike images of high-definition video with up to 7.1 channels that are bit-for-bit identical to the studio master. The BDP-80 supports bit-stream output of DTS-HD Master Audio. It can also internally decode DTS-HD Master Audio and output via HDMI or the 7.1ch analog audio output terminals. (DTS-HD High Resolution Audio and DTS Digital Surround are also supported.)
• 7.1-Channel Analog Output - Individual analog 7.1-channel surround outputs are ideal to connect to a 7.1-channel or 5.1-channel surround sound system. The BDP-80 delivers an immersive surround experience. For users with a stereo sound system, the 7.1-channel analog output can be configured to down-mix the surround audio into stereo.
• Digital Optical and Coaxial Outputs - For easy connection to more traditional A/V receivers, the BDP-80 features both optical and coaxial outputs for digital audio.

Ultimate Convenience:

• Dual USB Ports - Two USB 2.0 high speed ports are provided, one on the front panel and one on the back. Users can enjoy high definition video, high resolution photos and music directly from their USB drives.
• PAL/NTSC Conversion - The BDP-80 supports NTSC and PAL systems for both disc playback and video output. It can also convert content of one system for output in another. (Subject to DVD and BD region restrictions.)
• Glow-in-the-Dark Remote Control - The BDP-80 comes with a remote control with glow-in-the-dark buttons. With its ergonomic button layout and clear labeling, operating the Blu-ray Disc player is easy and intuitive.
• Universal Power Supply - The BDP-80 features a wide-range world power supply that is compatible with the AC power of all regions. No worries about damaging the player due to incorrect power voltage.
• HDMI CEC - HDMI Consumer Electronics Control simplifies the home theater by allowing a single remote control to operate multiple devices.

Specifications


Designs and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Disc Types*BD-Video, DVD-Video, AVCHD, DVD-Audio, SACD, CD, HDCD, Kodak Picture CD
CD-R/RW, DVD±R/RW, DVD±R DL, BD-R/REBD ProfileBD-ROM Version 2 Profile 2 (also compatible with Profile 1 Version 1.0 and 1.1)Internal Storage1GB (Actual available storage varies due to system usage)OutputAnalog Audio: 7.1ch (also supports 5.1ch and stereo modes)
Digital Audio: Coaxial, Optical
HDMI Audio: Stereo, up to 7.1ch high-resolution PCM, up to 5.1ch DSD, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, and DTS-HD Master Audio bitstream output or decoded into LPCM.
Analog Video: Composite, S-Video, Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr, 480i/480p, 720p/1080i available for non-restricted content only)
Digital Video: HDMI with HDCP (NTSC: 480i/480p/720p/1080i/1080p/1080p24, PAL 576i/576p/720p/1080i/1080p/1080p24)Video CharacteristicsComposite Video Amplitude: 1.0Vp-p (75Ω)
Component Video: Y: 1.0Vp-p (75Ω), Pb/Pr: 0.7Vp-p (75Ω)Audio Characteristics**Frequency: 20Hz - 20kHz (±0.3dB)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >115dB (A-weighted)
THD+N: 60hz ac
Power Consumption: 30W (Dimensions: 430mm x 281mm x 53mm, 16-7/8 x 11 x 2-1/8 inches
Mass: 3.5kg / 7.7 lbsOperating Temperature5°C - 35°C
41°F - 95°FOperating Humidity15% - 75%
No condensation
* Compatibility with user-encoded contents or user-created discs is on a best-effort basis with no guarantee due to the variation of media, software and techniques used.
**Nominal specification.

 

[Robert Crawford]

I have an Oppo DVD player that I use to play back most of my SD DVDs. The Oppo-80 is their cheaper version of the Oppo-83 Blu-ray player that costs about $500.

I'd bought the Sherwood-5004 to play back my BRD and DVDs from other regions. Read this thread about it as it's much cheaper than the Oppo-80 player.




Crawdaddy

 

[Ed Moxley]

I have it's older brother, the BDP-83, and like it a lot.
Knowing Oppo's rep for building quality gear, yes, I'd recommend it.

 

[Dick]

Thanks, Robert. I've done some reading up on the Sherwood since you posted. The major issue seems to be that it's quite noisy while loading and makes a "whirring" sound while playing. Have you noticed this?

More importantly, did you have to enter codes to access all-regions for Blu-rays? Finally, would I have to jump through hoops to get it to convert PAL to NTSC with DVD's?

 

[Scott Merryfield]

I also own an Oppo SD-DVD player (the 980H). While I do not use it for region-free playback, it is a great universal upconverting SD-DVD player -- it also plays DVD-Audio and SACD discs. If I did not already have the combination of the Oppo 980H and a Sony BluRay player that met all my current playback needs, I would be buying an Oppo BluRay player.

 

[Robert Crawford]

Originally Posted by Dick

Thanks, Robert. I've done some reading up on the Sherwood since you posted. The major issue seems to be that it's quite noisy while loading and makes a "whirring" sound while playing. Have you noticed this?

More importantly, did you have to enter codes to access all-regions for Blu-rays? Finally, would I have to jump through hoops to get it to convert PAL to NTSC with DVD's?

Dick,
My Oppo DVD player is more noisy than the Sherwood during loading. I never noticed the "whirring" sound during playback on the Sherwood.

The codes are easy just read the last few posts in that thread I linked to which explains the process. When I first played some dvds from the UK, I didn't even have to change the codes for the player as it played them automatically.

 

[Worth]

Unlike region-free DVD players, I believe that you have to enter a code to change zones on all multi-region blu-ray players. There are many discs that aren't region locked, though. And standard DVDs from any country should play just fine without the need to change codes.

As far as PAL-NTSC conversion goes, it really depends on the player. Some do it very well, some fairly poorly.

I have a Momitsu, multi-region blu-ray player that does an excellent job of converting PAL-NTSC. It's also cheaper than the Oppo. Not sure if we're allowed to post links here, but if you google "Momitsu blu" you should find it pretty easily.

 

[Robert Crawford]

Originally Posted by Worth

Unlike region-free DVD players, I believe that you have to enter a code to change zones on all multi-region blu-ray players. There are many discs that aren't region locked, though. And standard DVDs from any country should play just fine without the need to change codes.

As far as PAL-NTSC conversion goes, it really depends on the player. Some do it very well, some fairly poorly.

I have a Momitsu, multi-region blu-ray player that does an excellent job of converting PAL-NTSC. It's also cheaper than the Oppo. Not sure if we're allowed to post links here, but if you google "Momitsu blu" you should find it pretty easily.

The Sherwood is the same player as the Momitsu, but with another name plate and lower price.




Crawdaddy

 

[Dick]

Robert, one final question regarding your Sherwood. How smooth and sharp is the image when converting from PAL to NTSC? I used to find that Academy ratio films looked fine, but anamorphic ones were jerky. I would love to own the region 2 JOURNEY OF NATTY GANN again (it is 16x9 2.35:1), but I owned this previously along with an outboard format converter and it was unwatchably jerky. There are tons of great DVD's from Spain and other countries (read: Hammer films missing in the U.S. and lots more). Would I have better luck with Sherwood's built in one?

Thanks. That would answer all my concerns before I go ahead and purchase!

 

[Selden Ball]

I'm not Robert, but...

I have my Sherwood BDP-5004 configured to output everything at 1080p/60 in order to avoid PAL/NTSC frame rate issues in the display device (I'm using it with a Mitsubishi HC3800 DLP projector). I have never noticed any jerky video. However, I also tend not to notice things like that.

Also, bear in mind that Oppo does not sell region free players any more. Although the 83 and 80 are "universal", that means they can play SACD and DVD-A formats in addition to CD, DVD and BD. They are still region locked. "Universal" does NOT mean "region free". Supposedly after-market unlocking chips are available, though.

 

[Ed Moxley]

The manual for my BDP-83 says it plays BD movies from all regions, so it appears it's region free for BD movies. It's not for dvds though. That takes a mod, which kills the warranty.
See page 4 of the manual: http://download.oppodigital.com/BDP83/BDP-83_English_Manual.pdf

 

[Worth]

Originally Posted by Ed Moxley

The manual for my BDP-83 says it plays BD movies from all regions, so it appears it's region free for BD movies. It's not for dvds though. That takes a mod, which kills the warranty.
See page 4 of the manual: http://download.oppodigital.com/BDP83/BDP-83_English_Manual.pdf

Not sure where you're getting that idea from, as the manual explicitly states that the Oppo will only play back discs from region A:

This player is designed and manufactured to respond to the region management information. If the region number of a BD-Video or DVD disc does not correspond to the region number of this player, this player cannot play the disc.
BD-Video: This player plays BD-Video with marks containing the region code A.

 

[Ed Moxley]

Ok, I misunderstood what it was showing. It shows regions A,B &C. So I guess it's saying the A must be with the B & C, for it to work. Someone else had showed me that, and said it was region free for BDs. I took their word for it, since I don't care one way or the other. I only watch region A. I don't buy foreign movies, on dvd or BD.
Sorry 'bout that. I gotta quit listening to people, and check for myself.

 

[Robert Crawford]

Originally Posted by Ed Moxley

Why, I may ask?







Crawdaddy

 

[Ed Moxley]

Originally Posted by Robert Crawford




Why, I may ask?







Crawdaddy

Sure, you can ask.......
I have no interest really. Having them shipped is usually more expensive, right? I might would buy a British movie, if it wasn't more expensive.
Plus, I despise subtitles! I can't stand having to read a movie. I tried to watch Pan's Labyrinth and Mel Gibson's Jesus movie (can't remember the name), and quit watching after a few minutes. I'd rather they be dubbed than subtitled. Plus, a couple of friends and I will trade movies with each other, just to watch, and they don't have anything to play them either. I won't even watch silent movies, because of subtitles. Did I mention that I despise subtitles?

 

[Robert Crawford]

Originally Posted by Ed Moxley



Sure, you can ask.......
I have no interest really. Having them shipped is usually more expensive, right? I might would buy a British movie, if it wasn't more expensive.
Plus, I despise subtitles! I can't stand having to read a movie. I tried to watch Pan's Labyrinth and Mel Gibson's Jesus movie (can't remember the name), and quit watching after a few minutes. I'd rather they be dubbed than subtitled. Plus, a couple of friends and I will trade movies with each other, just to watch, and they don't have anything to play them either. I won't even watch silent movies, because of subtitles. Did I mention that I despise subtitles?

Ed,
I wasn't sure what you were talking about beforehand which is why I asked you, but I thought you meant American movies released on video in other regions, but not so here. This is why I have such a player and sometimes, I found Blu-ray releases of American films from the UK cheaper than this region's release of the same title





Crawdaddy