HDMI or 7.1 out for best AQ

I feel your answer lies in your decision to either hang onto the current aV processor, or get a new HDMI type.

gona keep it? Do the analog outs on the 83.... gona get a new AV proc: Do the digital out on the 83.

simple.

What does anyone suggest for cable type/manuf. for those of us taking the 5.1/7.1 analog route? What have you had luck with? digital coax (ala Sterovox for example)? Analog interconnects? Is quality just as important here between an Oppo BDP-83 and the AVR?
thanks.

Top quality RCA's are necessary to get the best performance. I use Acoustic Zen Action 5.0 and Action 1.0 for the 5.1 connection between Oppo-83 and the Pre-Pro. The Action 5.0 has 5 cables in one jacket with locking RCA's. It is terrific cable, convenient and affordable. The Harmonic Technology Rainbow is also a great cable. Otherwise, you can use any set of 3 pairs of RCA cables that you like. You just have to be careful about 6 separate RCA cables putting stress on the player if they are heavy.

"Drewmb likely meant a AVR capable of decoding the new high rez audio formats would use the HDMI output from the Oppo"

Correct, Correct.