I am looking to add a remote replica to an existing implementation. The current system is running AM 8.1. My question is, can the new SecurID 130 that is probably running a newer version of AM be configured as the replica? Am i going to have to update the current AM to the version on the new appliance?
Yes it can be added as a replica...
If it is a newly shipped 130, then you can add it as a replica to a primary that is at least the same major version as that replica. The replica cannot be factory reset backward to an earlier version than it was shipped with, as the older factory images do not recognize the newest hardware platforms [that were not available at the time the older images were produced.] You will need to get the primary up to 8.3.0.0.0, if the 130 was shipped with 8.3.0.0.0. [Or 8.2.1.0.0 if the 130 is 8.2.1.0.0]