Help to upgrade my surround processor


Here's the short version. I have a TV with composite and S-video inputs only. I also have an old (at least 15 years) Onkyo ED-301 Dolby Digital SP. I only watch a movie a week. My sources are DVD and Laser. I can't change my TV as yet, so the S-Video is OK. But I imagine the chip in my unit (motorola 24 bit dsp 56009) is basically a dinosaur. How can I get some better sound and upgrade? I imagine I just can't upgrade my chip. Sound is my primary consideration. My problem is that I hate to buy an Anthem AVM 20 which is a 8-9 year old unit and the newer Anthems are too pricey. Does the v2 2.21 upgrade sound good enough compared to today's chips? Otherwise Rotel, Sherwood, Outlaw or maybe a Cary 6? Thanks in advance for any help.
drjjpdc

Showing 2 responses by drjjpdc

Very good responses. The Classe is out of my price range. I like the proceed. Nguyen when you say upgrade to a avp2, do you mean buy an avp2 or can the avp s be upgraded? Looks like my best bets are the proceed, anthem or sunfire.
Actually I am one of those heretics who believe you can run music and surround if you know how to "separate" (get it?) them. Amps are Quickie V4's and a Sonogy Black Knight powering my Sforzando JL1's (satellites and bass units respectively with a modded Marschand Xover). The center and surrounds go through the Onkyo and a Carver 5 channel amp. I never turn on the Onkyo/Carver combo unless I am in for a surround session. I do have a TT, CD Player, Laser and DVD for sources. My TV is a 10 yr old Mitsubishi 31 inch model.

I basically want a more up to date model for DD and DTS and 24/96 sound (PCM) with at least S video. I do appreciate component outputs and the improvement they provide, but my TV does not comply.