Is HDMI worth the upgrade?

The low prices for the older non-HDMI units obviously directly reflects their desirablility for a good reason.

Pass through of video upconverting, digital switching and a multitude of other features make them worth having.

Yes, you can go with an older unit with 5.1 analog pass through (how much will that cost in extra cabling?), but you won't get HDMI 1.3, or the new 1.4 for 3D if that's important to you.

I was in the same position a while ago, and went with the top-end unit of the last generation of Integra. For about $1-1.5k you can get (almost) state of the art that won't be completely outdated soon.

Short answer - is it worth it? - without doubt

Thanks to all for the info.

I agree with Blindjim that "happy staying a step or two behind" which has led me to the position of replacing three
components at one time: dvd(am planning to buy oppo, again)
av processor and a TV so the budget is stretched.

I also agree with Glenfihi that "would rather have a great sounding unit..."

With those facts any specific recomendations for the processor at about 1k?

The ones that interest me are the Integra models. In the Integra - onkyo line up music sense is not replaced by non sense.

The Integra 9 series and more recently their 40 series (SE only.... 80 = xlr), are well received by the press and aren't to hard to come by in the used market.

it'll take a pretty good bit more to improve upon what they bring to the table. That said, I'm pretty happy using my Onkyo TX SR 805 as a processsor only now. So If you think about things that way, using a rec as a proc, the budget gets a shot in the arm and more money for other concerns can be freed up.

I'm digging my Panic sonic TCP 50C2 as well. I'd have preffered a 60 though, more than likely. But for the Bedroom, it'll do.

One other thing here... if you want a very nice Blue Ray effect, do make sure the display does 24fps & 1080p. The 3:2 pull down tech is a compromise of sorts for displaying BR. It's not a bad one, but I feel a more dedicated & direct route might be better.

Good luck.

Blindjim

Thanks, Ive started to become a daily reader
(getting myself educated)
of the web site and have noticed your excellent
comments and input to others!!

Thanks again

Thanks... you're welcome.