Hey Literati, If you cannot hear a difference then as you said, go for the 103 and will save some cash too. I cannot find what DAC's are used within the umc-1, but they must be on par with the Sabre reference in the Oppo. Obviously using HDMI reduces the amount of cables aswell, but your AudioQuest Golden Gate cables will need to be put back in their boxes.

What are your sidewinder cables connected to? Is that strictly for 2.0 content?

Tech-UK, I have been considering the 105, but I'm not certain the cost is justified, given that I will most likely run HDMI from the player to my processor. When I ran 5-channel analog audio from the Oppo 95, I didn't notice much of a difference compared to its HDMI digital audio output. Part of that is lack of a necessary break-in period, but I'm certain that part of it also are the sonic limitations of the Emotiva electronics I have. I may decide on the Oppo 103 instead as it more closely matches the capabilities of my system.

What would you do in my situation? Also, thanks for the positive feedback!

Hi Literati, I was going to ask if you have been looking at the Oppo 105. Your amp upgrades sound sweet! (pun intended ). Will look forward to seeing the pic's of your new kit.

Cheers
Tech.

Thanks for the positive feedback! I will be making a few upgrades soon, including an Oppo BDP-105, which I'd like to test as a preamp to take full advantage of its DACs (sending the 7-channel analog audio directly into my amps). Speaking of which, I upgraded to Emotiva monoblocks for my front three channels (200 watts each), as well as an Emotiva UPA-200 stereo amp for my two surround channels (150 watts x 2). The overall effect, as anticipated, produces a considerably more powerful yet more detailed soundstage for soundtracks and music. I need to post new pictures!

Thank you for visiting my gallery! Your setup rocks. I am a sucker for expensive cables . That pic showing the rear of your Oppo is a thing of beauty .

Take Care
Tech.