OPPO BDP-103D Darbee Edition Blu-ray Disc Player Review and Photos

The OPPO BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc player is a modified version of its predecessor, the well-regarded BDP-103 (read my complete review).

Just as with the 103, the 103D provides the same playback features (including 3D and internet streaming) and connections (including two HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs), and also features the same core video performance as the BDP-103 (check out my BDP-103 video performance test results for further reference).

However, this new version incorporates one change, and one addition, that is spotlighted in this review.

For the BDP-103D, OPPO has replaced the previously included QDEO video processing chip with a Silicon Image VRS Clearview chip that provides some additional detail, edge enhancement, and video smoothing functions, as well as taking over the 4K upscaling functions of the previous QDEO chip.

However, more importantly, OPPO has also added a new feature to the BDP-103D, Darbee Visual Presence. Darbee Visual Presence adds a new twist on video processing, not by upscaling resolution, reducing background video noise, eliminating edge artifacts, or smoothing motion response, but by adding depth information in the image via a clever use of real-time contrast, brightness, and sharpness manipulation (referred to as luminous modulation).

This process restores the missing "3D" information that the brain is trying to see within the 2D image. The result is that the image "pops" with improved texture, depth, and contrast range, giving it a more real-world look, without having to resort to true stereoscopic viewing to get a similar effect.

However, Darbee Visual Presence also works with 3D as well as 2D images, adding even more realistic depth for 3D viewing.

For more details on how Darbee Visual Presence works in the real world, read my previous review of the Darblet Model DVP 5000 which is Darbee's standalone processor that features this technology. Also, I will be presenting some actual examples of Darbee Visual Presence as executed by the BDP-103D later in this review.

However, to start off this photo review of the OPPO Digital BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc Player is a look at the accessories included with the unit provided for this review. Starting on the back is the included packing/carrying bag, remote control, and HDMI cable. Resting on the top of the BDP-103D are the remote control batteries, USB docking station, Wireless USB Adapter, detachable power cord, and User Manual.

Proceed to the next page...

OPPO BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc Player - Front/Rear View Photo

Although the BDP-103D has the same front and rear panel cosmetics (except for the addition of a Darbee Logo) as the previous BDP-103, I am providing an new physical overview for the BDP-103D for this review.

Shown on this page is montage that showing the front (top) and rear (bottom) views of the OPPO BDP-103D. The front panel of this unit is very sparse. This means most features can only be accessed via wireless remote control that is provided - Don't Lose it!

Starting on the far left is the on/off button.

Just to the left of the on/off button is a dark red area which where the LED status display display is located.

The Blu-ray Disc/DVD/CD tray, marked by the Blu-ray disc logo, is mounted in the center of the front panel, followed, and just to the right is the tray eject button.

Moving past the loading tray and eject button is the disc eject button and, and jut below, two connections. The first connection is is a front mounted USB 2.0 port (two additional USB ports is located on the rear of the unit). The USB port allows access to video, image, and music files stored on a flash drive or iPod.

Just to the right of the USB port is a MHL-enabled HDMI input. This input allows to connect an external source device that can take advantage of the BDP-103D built-in video processing and scaling functions. Also, you can connect compatible MHL-enabled source devices that include select smart phones and tablet.

Finally, on the far right are the onboard playback and navigation buttons.

The rear of the BDP-103D is shown on the bottom photo. Starting on the left side and moving toward the center are the video, audio, and control connections. The only connection on the far right is the AC power input (removable power cord provided).

For a detailed close-up look at, and explanation of, all of the rear panel connections, proceed through the next two pages...

OPPO BDP-103D - Rear Panel Connections - Left Side

Shown on this page are the connections located on the left-to-center area of the OPPO Digital BDP-103D's rear panel. The layout is the same as the previous BDP-103, but is explained again in this report.

Starting on the left is Ethernet (LAN) port. This can be used to connect the BDP-103D to a high-speed internet router for access to internet-based content (such as Netflx, Vudu, and Pandora), as well as content stored on network-connected PCs.

Also, the LAN connection also provides access to downloadable firmware updates. It is also important to note that the BP-103 also comes with a USB WiFi adapter that can be used in leiu of the Ethernet/LAN connection option. If you find that the WiFi option is not stable, you always have the the ability to use an Ethernet cable.

Moving to the right of the Ethernet/LAN connection is the rear mounted HDMI input. In a similar manner as the front mounted HDMI input shown in the front view photo, this connection is provided so that users can connect external source device that can take advantage of the BDP-103D's built-in video processing and scaling functions. It is important to point out that the HDMI inputs on the BDP-103D are not provided for any type of Blu-ray or DVD recording function.

Next is the Diagnostic video output (labeled DIAG). This connection utilizes a Composite video connection. This output only displays the onscreen setup menus for the BDP-103D in case there is difficulty setting up the HDMI outputs.

Just below the DIAG connection are the Digital Coaxial and Digital Optical audio connections. Either connection can be used. However, if your receiver has 5.1/7.1 channel analog inputs (shown in the next photo) or HDMI audio access, either of those options would be preferred.

Next are the dual HDMI output connections. HDMI Output 2 does not take advantage of the Silicon Image VRS processing for upscaling. The video processing chip for the HDMI 2 output is provided by an OPPO-contract Mediatek SOC (system-on-chip).

On the other hand, the HDMI 1 output is the primary audio/video output for the BDP-103D, and takes advantage of the VRS processor for upscaling.

Both HDMI outputs have the ability to provide 3D viewing, and up to 4K video upscaling when connected to a compatible TV or video projector. However, the HDMI 1 output provides more extensive video settings, as well as access to Darbee Visual Presence processing, which will be shown later in this photo profile.

- 4K upscaling can be accessed from either the HDMI 1 or  HDMI 2 outputs, but not at the same time.

- If using both HDMI outputs for audio and video, use the Dual Display option.

- If using a 3D TV or Video projector with an HDMI-equipped home theater receiver that is not 3D-enabled, use HDMI 1 for the video and HDMI 2 for the audio by selecting the Split AV option. In this configuration, HDMI 1 will output only a video signal, and HDMI 2 will output both a video and audio signal.

Moving further right are two USB ports (a third is on the front panel). This allows the connection of the provided USB WiFi Adapter, or USB flash drive, external hard drive, or iPod with audio, photo, or video files.

Next is the IR in connection. This allows the BDP-103D to be incorporated into a central IR-based remote control system.

On the far right of this photo is the an RS232 connection. This connection option is provided for full control integration in custom-installed home theater installations.

NOTE: Just as with its predecessor, the BDP-103D does not have Component Video output. For more details on why this connection is not available, refer to my article: High-Definition Via Component Video Connections Ends.

Proceed to the next page...

OPPO BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc Player - Multi-Channel Analog Audio Outputs

Shown in this photo are the analog audio outputs and the power receptacle of the BDP-103D, which are located on right of center of the rear connection panel.

The analog audio connections provide access to the internal Dolby Digital/Dolby TrueHD and DTS/DTS-HD Master Audio surround sound decoders and multi-channel uncompressed PCM audio output of the BD-P103. This is useful when you have a home theater receiver that does not have digital optical/coaxial or HDMI audio input access, but can accommodate either 5.1 or 7.1 channel analog audio input signals.

Also, the FR (red) and FL (white) can also be used for two-channel analog audio playback. This is provided not only for those that do not have surround sound capable home theater receivers, but for those that prefer a good quality 2-channel audio output option when playing standard music CDs.

Proceed to the next page...

OPPO BDP-103D (Left) and BDP-103 (Right) Blu-ray Disc Players - Front View Open

Pictured on this page is a photo of the inside workings of both the OPPO BDP-103D Darbee Edition (on the left) and the previous BDP-103 (on the right), as as seen from the front of the player.

As you can see they look visually identical on the surface.

Without getting into further technical specifics, on the far left side of each photo, is the Power Supply section. In the center is Blu-ray Disc/DVD/CD disc drive.

The board located behind power supply is the analog audio board.

However, on the BDP-103D, underneath the audio board (not visible) is where the VRS and Darbee Visual Presence processing chips are located.

The board on the right contains the digital audio and video processing chips, as well as the IR and RS-232 control circuitry.

For a look at the inside of both players as seen from the rear, proceed to the next page...

OPPO BDP-103D (Left) and BDP-103 (Right) Blu-ray Disc Players - Rear View Open

Here is an alternate look at the inside workings of both BDP-103D Darbee Edition (on the left) and the previous OPPO BDP-103 (on the right), as seen from the rear of the player.

For each player, on the far right side is the Power Supply board. In the center is the Blu-ray Disc/DVD/CD disc drive. The board shown on left side houses the main digital audio and video processing functions, as well as the IR and RS-232 control circuitry.

Lastly, to the right of the audio/video board, and in front of the disc drive, is the analog audio processing board.

Under analog processing board for the BDP-103D is where the VRS and Darbee Visual Presence processing chips are located.

For a look that remote control provided with the BDP-103D, proceed to the next page...

OPPO Digital BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc Player - Remote Control

Pictured on this page is a close-up look at the OPPO BDP-103D's wireless remote control. The remote control is visually identical the previous OPPO BDP-103 remote, except that the direct access 3D button near the bottom has been replaced by the Darbee access button. For comparison, check out my previous photo of the remote control for BDP-103.

3D settings are still accessible via the onscreen menu system, and the player can be set to automatically detect 3D content.

Starting at the top are the Power, Input Selection, and Disc Tray Open buttons.

Just below the top buttons are direct access buttons for both Netflix and Vudu.

Continuing down are the Pure Audio (disables video functions if desired, when listen to audio-only content), Volume (only active if using the multi-channel analog audio outputs), and Mute.

The next section of remote house the direct channel and track access function buttons, as well as Home Menu access, and Menu Navigation.

Below the menu navigation buttons, are the Red, Green, Blue, and Yellow buttons. These buttons are designated for special functions available on select Blu-ray discs, as well as additional functions as determined by OPPO.

On the bottom portion of the remote are the transport controls (Play, Pause, FF, RW, Stop) and other functions, including a button that provides direct access to the Darbee Visual Presence setting options.

The remote control also has a backlight function that makes the buttons visible in a darkened room.

Also, it is important to note that since very few functions can be accessed on the DVD player itself, don't lose the remote.

For a look at the onscreen menu functions of the OPPO Digital BDP-103D, proceed through the next three pages...

OPPO Digital BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc Player - Main Home Menu

Here is a photo example of the onscreen menu system. The photo shows the main Home Menu page. This menu is accessible via the Home button on the remote control. As you can see, there are several categories that direct the user to more extensive sub-menus.

From left-to-right, the icons on the top row represent the following:

The Disc Menu is for access audio or video disc-based content. However, you do not have to go to this menu to play a disc.

If you insert the disc directly the BDP-103D will detect which type it is and play it using either remote or front panel controls.

The Music Menu is for accessing music files stored on discs, flash drives, or home network.

The Photo Menu is for accessing image files stored on discs, flash drives, or home network.

The Movie Menu is for accessing movie files stored on discs, flash drives, or home network.

My Network is for establishing and maintaining the BDP-103D's connectivity other devices (such as a PC, network media player, or media server) that is on the home network.

The Setup Menu accesses all other functions of the BDP-103D, including video and audio settings. It is important to note that the Setup Menu can also be accessed directly via the clicking on the Setup button the remote control.

Along the bottom row are the icons that take you to streamable content from several popular online providers. It is also important to note that Netflix and Vudu can also be accessed directly via the remote control without having to into this menu.

Proceed to the next page...

OPPO Digital BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc Player - Picture Mode Settings - HDMI 1 and 2

Here is a look at the Picture Mode Settings Menu for the HDMI 1 (shown on the left) and HDMI 2 (shown on the right) outputs (click on photo for larger view).

In addition to standard picture settings, the HDMI 1 output also provides picture mode settings for and VRS setting options. A split-screen comparison feature is also included for both Darbee and VRS for real-time before/after comparison.

The photo on the right shows the Picture Mode Settings for the HDMI 2 output, which are associated with the OPPO/Mediatek processing chip.

Note that extra setting options for Darbee and VRS processing are not included for the HDMI 2 output.

To see how the Picture Mode Settings Menu of the BDP-103D differs from its predecessor, the BDP-103, refer to the related page in my previous BDP-103 Photo Profile

Proceed to the next page...

OPPO BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc Player - Darbee Visual Presence - Example 1 - Beach

In this photo is a look at the alternate way of accessing the Darbee Visual Presence settings for the OPPO BDP-103D.

The setting options are identical to those available on the Picture Mode Settings Menu, but are more easily accessible just by pressing the Darbee button located on the remote control.

Starting on the left, you can access which Darbee Mode you want to use (Full Pop, HiDef, or Game).

In the middle, using the cursor buttons on the remote control, you can determine how, or how little, of the Darbee effect you want to engage.

The amount of Darbee Visual Presence processing you wish to use is totally up to you. The effect is continuously adjustable from Zero to 120%, so it can be set at different percentages for various content sources. Also, different processing characteristics are provided for Game and Movie/TV content (HiDef), and if you want a more dramatic setting option (useful for lower resolution sources), a Full Pop setting is provided (Note: Full Pop is more susceptible to edge artifacts if set too high) .

Finally, on the right side of the menu, using the color buttons on the remote control you can activate the Darbee demo modes, which include demo on/off, a split-screen comparison, or swipe screen comparison that show the effect of Darbee processing so that helps in setting how much of the effect you want to use.

For a look at some split-screen examples of the Darbee Visual Presence effect, proceed through the next series of photos...

OPPO BDP-103D - Darbee Visual Presence - Example 2 - Trees

Here is the first in a series of Darbee Visual Presence video processing examples, shown in split-screen view, as implemented by the OPPO BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc player - Display resolution for all following examples is 1080p.

Display Devices:

Video Projector - Epson PowerLite Home Cinema 2030 1080p 3D Video Projector (on review loan)

TV Monitor - Westinghouse 1080p LCD Monitor

Image Sources Use For Photos:Spears & Munsil HD Benchmark Disc 1st Edition

The left side shows the image with Darbee Visual Presence enabled and the right side of the image shows how the image looks with without Darbee Visual Presence.

The setting used was HiDef Mode set at 100% (the 100% percent setting was used to better illustrate the effect in this photo presentation).

In the photo, note the increased detail, depth, and wider dynamic contrast range on the rocky beach wave ripple than on the non-processed image on the right.

Click on photo for larger view.

Proceed to the next photo...

OPPO BDP-103D - Darbee Visual Presence - Example 3 - Building

Shown above is a good example of how Darbee Visual Presence increases the perception of detail and depth. Notice especially that the leaves on the foreground trees to on the left side of the screen have a much more details and a 3D-like effect, that the leaves on the tree shown on the right side of the screen.

Then look further around the image and notice the difference in the detail of the trees on the hill, as well as the line where the tree tops meet the sky.

Finally, though a little harder to see, notice the detail in grass at the bottom of screen just to the left of the split vertical split line, versus the grass on the bottom of screen just to right of the split line.

Click on the photo for larger view.

For an additional reference, check out a photo showing the split screen comparison where the unprocessed image is on the left, instead of the right, as shown in my previous review of the Darbee Darblet standalone Visual Presence processor.

Proceed to the next photo...

OPPO Digital BDP-103D - Darbee Visual Presence - Example 4 - Trees 2

Here is the third split screen example that shows the DareVision effect using the HiDef setting with the effect set at 100%.

Just as in the previous image, Darbee Visual Presence processing is active on the left side, and inactive on the right side. Once again the HiDef Mode was used and set at 100%.

Note that on left image there is greater perception of the individual bricks, giving them a more realistic, textured, look.

For an additional reference, check out a photo showing the split screen comparison where the unprocessed image is on the left, instead of the right, as shown in my previous review of the Darbee Darblet standalone Visual Presence processor. Click on photo for larger view.

Proceed to the next photo...

OPPO Digital BDP-103D - Darbee Visual Presence - Example 5- Skyscraper

Here is a fourth split screen example that shows the DarbVision effect  using the HiDef setting with the effect set at 100%

In this example notice the difference in how much more perceived detail, contrast, and brightness there is in the grassy area and trees (on the left side) than on the right.

Click on photo for larger view.

OPPO BDP-103D Blu-ray Disc Player - Darbee Visual Presence - Final Take

Here is a fifth split screen example that shows the DarbeeVision effect using the HiDef setting with the effect set at 100%.

In this example notice the difference in how much more perceived detail, contrast, and brightness there in the skyscraper exterior (on the left side) than on the right.

Click on photo for larger view.

Here is a final split screen example that shows the DarbeeVision effect using the HiDef setting with the effect set at 100%.

In this example notice the difference in how much more perceived detail, contrast, and brightness there is in bridge superstructure (on the left side) than on the right.

Click on photo for larger view.

More to Consider

Before I conclude this review of the OPPO BDP-103D Darbee Edition Blu-ray Disc player, I wanted to point out two additional things about Darbee Visual Presence that may provide further perspective.

The 4K Issue

With regards to Darbee Visual Presence technology, it must be noted that, as of this time, it does not work with native 4K video signals. However, OPPO has executed an interesing workaround for BDP-103D that owners of 4K Ultra HD TVs might find very useful.

In the BDP-103D, the Darbee Visual Presence feature is implemented up to the 1080p stage (whether native or upscaled0, before going through the player's 4K upscaling function. In other words, a 1080p Darbee Visual Presence processed signal can still be upscaled to 4K, before it is output from the player (via HDMI, of course) to the HDMI input of a 4K Ultra HD TV.

Due to the fact that I didn't have a 4K Ultra HD TV on hand in time for this review, I cannot confirm the result visually myself, or included a result photo example in this review, but I hope have opportunity to do so, and when I do, I will update this review accordingly.

Darbee Does 3D

On the other hand, although Darbee Visual Presence has limitations when it comes to 4K, I want to report that, in addition to standard 1080p 2D, it also work very well with 3D.

I was unable to post a photo that shows the Darbee effect on 3D signals, but using the BDP-103D and several 3D Blu-ray Disc movies as the source, and the Epson PowerLite Home Cinema 2030 as the display device, I can say that I found that 3D-with-Darbee looks great. In typical 3D viewing situations, although depth is displayed, many times when comparing 3D to 2D versions of the same content, 3D loses detail, so the result appears somewhat softer (and darker). However, when applying Darbee Visual Presence, not only can the lost detail be "restored", but the image looks more natural than the original 3D image. Until a good glassless viewing option for 3D becomes available, 3D with Darbee added may be your best bet.

Final Take

Just when you thought Blu-ray has reached it limits, OPPO and Darbee team-up for one really great Blu-ray Disc player. The BDP-103 has all of the same connectivity, features, and performance of its predecessor, the BDP-103 (which is still in OPPO Digital's product line-up), but adds a very practical upgrade in Darbee Visual Presence. This feature can be turn-on, turned-off, is continuously adjustable for personal taste.

I found that setting Darbee Visual Presence at about 50% for most content provides the best enhancement without over-exaggeration or artifacts. However, I used the 100% setting on the examples shown in this review so that the Darbee vs Non-Darbee effect difference would show up better in the photos. Use your own preference as your guide.

For those that have never owned an OPPO Blu-ray Disc player, and want a top-of-line reference unit for their home theater system, the BDP-103D, even with its $599 price tag is definitely worth consideration.

The question, however, for those that already own an OPPO BDP-103 (or previous OPPO Blu-ray Disc players), the question might be is it worth that price tag just to get the Darbee feature.

It must be pointed out that you can add Darbee to any Blu-ray Disc player with their external DVP-5000 Darblet, which is priced about $320 (Read my review), which would be an option if you want to add Darbee capability to your existing BDP-103, or any Blu-ray Disc player for that matter.

That being said, my suggestion would be if you have a 4K Ultra HD TV, having the Darbee built into the player does provide you with the capability of incorporating Darbee with a 4K upscaled output, as the Darbee effect is applied between the player's 1080p and 4K upscaling functions I discussed above. Also, having Darbee built-in solves the clutter of adding another box to your setup, as well as allowing you to take advantage of Darbee processing for other HDMI source devices that can connect to the OPPO BDP-103D's two HDMI inputs.

On the other hand, if you do opt for the externally connectable option, the Darblet only has one HDMI input, and, if you own a 4K Ultra HD TV, you cannot feed the Darblet a 4K signal, either native or upscaled, from a 4K source device (this would include the 4K upscaled output of the BDP-103, or other 4K upscaling capable Blu-ray disc player). You would have to rely on the 4K upscaling capabilities of the 4K display device perform the final 4K upscaling function.

All the 4K discussion aside, in my opinion, Darbee Visual Presence is a very useful tool to have in your home theater arsenal, and the OPPO BDP-103D is a very practical way to get it.

For everything it has to offer in features, connectivity, and performance, the OPPO BDP-103D is a Blu-ray Disc Player that definitely earns a well-deserved FIVE STAR rating.

Official Product Page
NOTE: The previous BDP-103 will also remain in OPPO's Product Line as a choice for those that do not wish to have the modifications that have been incorporated into the BDP-103D.