Is HDMI worth the upgrade?

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.

Unless your monitor is 60in and up your not likely to see any true benefit of 1080p that at this time is still only on BluRay. HDMI direct from a player will allow often the upsample of standard def video but its not signifcant.
Hook up HDMI direct to monitor, use SPDIF Coax or Toslink digital for audio unless the new codecs for HD audio is a must have. You can save alot of coin on used units that are pre HDMI if you truely understand what they offer and what they really dont. I myself as of yet feel the need to update every item in my home for full HDMI.

Can't you use a Oppo BDP-83 with its' analog outs to go this route? Do the new high bit rate audio codecs play over the Oppo's analog outs?

No they only play via HDMI, thats why the market has crashed on pre HDMI gear, between 1080p and the latest codecs thats where HDMI gets its strength even if its goal really was only a way to prevent piracy (or try to)