edcon,

I'm looking forward to your review of the Oppo's component vs. HDMI performance. The HDMI video was better than component on my Dad's new Panasonic plasma and Oppo 970. My tv is about 3 years old so I don't have DVI/HDMI input.

Papabear,

Its great to hear that the sound quality of the 970 is such an improvement over your last player. Sound quality alone may be enough reason to buy the 970.