upgrade transport or amps..advice please

The amps,fer'sure. These Marantz jobs are fine for HT. At your budget there are dozens of amps that will "make" more music;thus making you more happy.

I agree with Avguygeorge.

I'll pitch the third strike against the Marantz. Sean
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Nope. MLB changed the rules -- it takes four strikes. NOW the Marantz is gone. ;-)

The Marantz were designed for hometheater, In that price range you can find some GREAT amps that will light that system up for ya.

Dave

thanks guys..keep the pitches coming Dave

Ditch the Marantz for an Audio Van Alstine stereo amp. Look here:
http://www.avahifi.com/
Absolutely can't be beat for the money. The FET Valve 350Ex will knock your socks off for $1750. Here's the info:
http://www.avahifi.com/root/equipment/amplifier/fetvalve_350ex.htm

A high quality amp - the choice is really yours :-) - will certainly improve your system MUCH more than a transport change. I'm not saying all transports sound alike, but you've got a decent one and your amps aren't really up to snuff.

Good Luck!
Ed