Oppo 105 Analog vs HDMI?


I listen entirely to classical music, and when I listen via the the Oppo 105's multi-channel analog outs (I use the main stereo LT/RT for the front channels), the sound is rather boxy/congested and has little depth. Via HDMI, the sound just blooms! The imaging is far wider, deeper, and the sound is simply more open sounding. I find this to be very puzzling since the analog section of the 105 is so highly touted. I do prefer the m-ch outs for solo instruments since there is less of a sense of depth in the first place. Any suggestions?

(Here is my system):

DALI Epicon 2 front speakers
Martin Logan Motif center speaker
Definitive Technology ProMonitor 1000 surrounds
Martin-Logan Abyss subwoofer
Sony 5400ES SACD
Oppo BDP 105 SACD/Blu-ray player
Marantz 8801 pre/pro
Parasound Halo A51 5-ch amp
128x128bachtoven

Showing 1 response by willland

Well, maybe your Marantz 8801 has something to do with that. I have heard/read that it is an outstanding performer for HT, 2-channel audio, and multichannel audio. A flagship prepro probably has been built with flagship components from top to bottom. Also, I think you can only engage Audyssey MultEQ XT32 when using a digital connection like HDMI and that alone can account for a better presentation.

Bill