Oppo UDP - 205

is the Ayre still $6,000?

Yes, I am holding out for a silver too. I also don't want to buy until a darbee comes out if at all which I'm not sure where that leaves me.

If you reading oppo please put these into your consideration!

Folks who got this player, what is your conclusion? Giant killer or a regular CDP? Any comparisons to the latest standalone SACD players?

I recently connected the 205 to the Ayre K-5xeMP via balanced analog.  The sound is now very close to that of the Ayre C-5xeMP, i.e., superb stereo.  For this particular pairing, balanced makes a difference despite Oppo's claim that XLR and RCA outputs should sound identical.  Ayre emphasizes fully balanced and zero feedback design, so my experience may not generalize to preamps or processors of other manufacturers.

db

Folks who got this player, what is your conclusion? Giant killer or a regular CDP? Any comparisons to the latest standalone SACD players?

My conclusion and that of many others (http://www.avsforum.com/forum/149-blu-ray-players/2821841-official-oppo-udp-205-uhd-blu-ray-player-o...) is the device is spectacular in every way. Overall value monetarily and comparatively speaking makes it a must have unit for anyone, especially those who also desire great video.

On the audio only side, I'd venture to say the Sabre DAC and the rest of the analog circuit can produce reference sound quality when used in a resolving system.