Gonk,
Nice 'initial' write up. I don't know where you find the time to do it! I'm considering an Oppo as an upgrade over my Pioneer DV-563, and the 980H sounds like it would be a worthwhile option. I'm more concerned with multichannel audio ability than video at the present (until I can upgrade my now 'ancient' Mits 48313 RPTV). I don't have HDMI (DVI on the Mits) so that's not a concern. I was considering the 970 but the 980 may be the better choice for me. Thanks again for the review.