Re: Modwright Oppo UDP-205
I had the Modwright 105D with just about every option.
I didn't keep it for more than a few weeks after trying different tube options.
It wasn't for me. I actually can't wrap my head around who it's for.
Maybe it just didn't suit my system. But the stock 105D was revelatory by comparison. I still have the stock 105D, 2 years later.
My lesson learned was this: If you want a higher performing component, buy a better component, don't mod a cheaper one.
Re: Modwright Oppo UDP-205
Interesting Rnrmf, cheers. Another thing which i'm weighing up is that in Australia we have to factor in extra shipping costs & and roughly an extra 20-25%% cost due to the exchange rate. And at the rate Oppo bring out new players, this model will only have a relatively short lifecycle before it is superceded. No question Dan does great work, but you'd have to take all that into account before pulling the trigger.
Re: Modwright Oppo UDP-205
I still had my Oppo BDP95 when I got the Modwright. That's what compelled me to sell the Modwright and get a stock 105D.
I had the benefit of comparison.
Re: Modwright Oppo UDP-205
It's worth noting that one still has the ability to listen to the "stock" Oppo through the multi-channel analog outputs, the Modwright mod leaves the multi-channel outs unchanged.
I have a 95, Modwright 105 and Modwright 205. IMO, the stock 205 is a better machine than the stock 105, although it does lack some features of the 105D (Darbee, HDCD and built-in apps for streaming services). It is smoother mechanically and sounds just a hair better, especially on SACD and hi-res PCM (I haven't yet tried DSD 128 or 256).
Like the 105 Mod, the 205 Mod has a significantly different sonic character than the stock 205. Compared to the 105 Mod, the stereo image is taller and deeper, about the same width. The bass seems better defined. Depending on the tubes rolled in, the highs can be more "shimmery" with very slightly more "air" around individual instruments. It is also quieter.
The 6DJ8/6922/7308 family of tubes has a wealth of great-sounding (and potentially expensive) NOS tubes available.
In the US, I don't think there are any universal players near the Modwright's price that sound as good, but individual sonic preferences might prefer a different player. If one only wants SACD/CD (no Bluray, DVD-Audio, or the high resolution capabilities of the USB/streaming/Ethernet DAC), there are other viable or perhaps preferred choices.
Re: Modwright Oppo UDP-205
Rob, thanks for your sharing your experience and insight into the stock vs modded 105D & 205 players, as well as tube options. Plenty to think about; mainly what is my higher priority, bluray/dvd's or SACD? Is SACD enough of a priority to buy a dedicated SACD player, or could I live without a high end SACD spinner altogether? I think what I need is a stock Oppo, Accuphase DP-720 & keep my Vitus SCD-025 Mk2 for rbcd. Donations? :lol:
Re: Modwright Oppo UDP-205
If you read the UDP-205 Universal Sensation review in headphone.guru, you will wonder why anyone would want to Modwright the 205. The review is the complete opposite of Modwright claim that the 205 is a bit cold & clinical etc