Yes, I can comment on most of my recommendations.
I own the ST-140 (black with gold handles model, 1989 - 105w, not the earlier 70w or later 105w with blue stripes). It has a truly classic and characteristic sound. Even with better amplifiers in other systems, I greatly enjoy listening to this amp, and do so often. It is very mellow, not harsh, and is "tubelike" in presentation. Wide soundstage, not forward and compressed. Laid back and very musical. Nothing like their newer amps, which now lean toward clinical and bright.
The Marantz CDP-5000 is a solidly-built unit that is the basis for the AH! Tjoeb line of modified tubed CD players from the Netherlands. It is a very solid player, with a sturdy platter, easy interface, and good (if small) remote. It sounds excellent by itself, and with a good cheap DAC, is a solid transport that you can be happy with for a long time.
The Acoustic Energy AEgis series has been replaced by the AEgis EVO series, hence the great pricing. As far as I can tell (I own the Aegis EVO 3 floorstanders, and have purchased and set up the older Aegis 3s for a friend), the EVO series is a minor revision, with cosmetic upgrades, perhaps a couple structural mods, and a woofer swap in the EVO 3. Their speakers are designed in UK, built in China, and actually have very good fit + finish for the price. The sound is excellent - very detailed + involving sound, and very fast.
The Threshold/Forte recommendation comes as a me-too on their reputation as classics, and their easy availability. I have not heard them.
Mike
