Astro Saber III Firmware question

[txcc08]

Sorry to bring up a simple question but after looking at similar old posts regarding firmware I am confused and need clarification. I recently acquired an Astro Saber III because I need a digital portable. The radio info is:
Model # H04SDH9PW7AN
Firmware: 02.02.01
DSP .03
System Package H35
Flash Code: F50101-8F0000-7
I believed from the flashcode that this radio was digital. After trying to have the radio programmed with digital channels and no audio was heard on busy channels while another radio with the same model # but higher firmware received the audio. I then recalled reading something about this firmware might be too low (old) to be digital capable.
My questions are as follows:
Is the firmware being too low the reason why no digital reception?
Can the radio have the firmware upgraded? If yes what does that entail?
Does the vocon need to be replaced? If so what does that entail and how much does it cost?
Thanks

[jmr061]

The host and DSP are old and the flashcode obviously has been messed with. My guess is it's a 512k vocon which is bad news. If it is 1 meg then it can be upgraded by legit means.

Jason

[txcc08]

Correction

The radio info is:

R02.02.00
DSP I 03.04.03