Which would be a better surround processor.

Please don't take this the wrong way. I am sure in their day, they were both fine processors. But they do not have HDMI nor will they decode the latest Lossless formats - Dolby True HD and DTS Master. So I would say use the one that at least has 5.1 or 7.1 multi channel inputs so you can use the lossless decoders from a Blu-ray player - assuming you are using this as a source. You don't mention.

Since you are updating, you may want to consider a current processor with the latest decoders. They do sound spectacular and a single HDMI cables can replace 7 RCA interconnects. Hope this helps.

I agree about lossless codecs, but I've found I prefer analog output from my Oppo BDP-105, and if the 8 cables are bundled they are not the mess I envisioned. I also have 2 XLR cables for stereo.

The BDP-105 with its HDMI and asynchronous USB inputs can perform most of the functions of a processor, e.g. speaker configuration and so forth. It applies its excellent audio and video processing to those inputs. You can use HDMI or analog output from the 105, but if you use HDMI, a 103 without the high quality analog processing is more cost effective. OP may not need a new processor.

db

Thats assuming he has an Oppo 105 Dbphd. Or any BDP with built in decoders and multi-channel analog outputs. We do not even know what he has for a source. He doesn't tell us.

Since he asked about two now fairly obsolete pre/pros and which to use, I suggested he use the one with multi-channel analog inputs IN CASE he has a Blu-ray player with a full set of analog outputs to enjoy the lossless codecs.

So only under these circumstances, he would not need a new pre/pro. If he is even interested in the new lossless formats. Maybe he is not.

Paraneer,

I was suggesting OP might use something like an Oppo 105 rather than a processor if his setup is simple enough to be accommodated by single HDMI and asynchronous USB inputs. The last sentence in my previous post may have been clearer had I deleted "new." I was suggesting going from the 105 directly to the amps.

I take stereo and 7.1 analog from a 105 to inputs of a Cary Cinema 11a that are set to bypass. I use the volume control of the Cary and set the volume of the Oppo to fixed. If I used the volume control of the Oppo and did not have runs to the amps long enough to warrant balanced cables, I could bypass the Cary altogether. But my LCR amps sit between the LR speakers and below the projection screen. I bundle and label the 8 RCA cables to make a tidy package. The stereo XLR cables are not bundled.

db