I went from a G61R to my 861v4. I use it just like you. I use balanced outputs into my Burmester amp and then to the speakers.

The upgrade is absolute huge. I think that upgrading when you use an analoge setup is alot more important as when using digital.

In stereo I use the G02 as preamp because the G61R just does not sound nearly that good as the G02. But when I upgraded to the 861v4 the G02 was not even close to the 861. I use the 861 in Direct mode when listening to music from the MC200. It is just stunning. I haven't heard a "surround" proccessor that sounds so good in stereo as the 861v4.

I did not have a chance to listen to a v6 or v8 but if you buy a v4 or even a v3 you would make a big upgrade.

DSP8000SE - 218 - Roon