Reference disc player...UDP 205 or Marantz?


Hey guys....
I've decided to take the plunge, and get my last reference disc player--at least for a very long time--and I'm looking for opinions on the subject.
I really wanted to get the Marantz SA-14S1, it sounds fantastic for sure, but I started to read all the glowing reviews on the Oppo UDP-205. Is it just hype, or the real thing? Is the Oppo really that rare piece of equipment that punches that far above its price? Who here has listened to the oppo and/or the Marantz? How do they compare? 
Thanks! 
jonasandezekiel
The Oppo 105 sounded great when I got it and I lived quite happily with it.  Then I got a chance to hear the Mytek Manhatten, which used the same ESS Sabre chips as the Oppo, and I was blown away.  Otoh, the Mytek costs several times what the Oppo went for so it damn well better be an upgrade.  I also wanted to be able to play DSD, which the Oppo couldn’t do...not sure that applies to the 205, though.
  So I scrimped and bought a demo Mytek and after a year I began wanting a DAC that could play my copious collection of SACDS.  I bought the Bryston and thought I would sell the Mytek.  But...can’t bear to part with the Mytek.  I will live on Franks and beans for a while.
  I use the Oppo for downloads as well, having the screen makes it easy to navigate usb sticks.
i would by the Oppo and not mess with the Marantz.  It sounds better and has better functionality 
Mahler123...
Thanks. I always thought the 105 played DSD, but I’m sure the 205 does at least.

Many options here, but it seems that most that have the oppo really love it. And it's amazing the level of animus, or love for that matter, that a few on here have for marantz. 
I have been a Marantz person for years.  I have the sa11s1 and the 7s1.  Once the fuses were changed, they have been very musical and enjoyable players.  But its been years since I've changed my digital footprint.  And I' m too old for streaming, computer stuff, etc.  So I decided to buy a modified 805 from Dan Wright with all his bells and whistles.  I have dealt with Dan over many years and feel he does great work.  Well, the modified 805 has been more than I expected.    Its a step above,e even the 7s1.  I would recommend the mod to anyone who has an 805.  It takes the player to a whole other level.  Pick one up new or used and have Dan do his stuff.
@rudge   I believe you are referring to the Marantz SA8005?  If so, I concur as I have the Modwright version of that player as well and the sound./build quality is outstanding!
I'm reading this thread with great interest.  I just ordered an Oppo UDP 205.  After 40 years of doing this as a hobby I've come to two conclusions.  Money doesn't necessarily get you better sound and to that end, no matter who reviews what, trust your own ears above all.

I got sick of seeing all these major audiophile brands spend fortunes on advertising knowing somewhere along the way I'm actually paying for all of that.  I had Don Sachs build me an amp and pre amp.  They're not cheap by any means.  The combo cost me more than $5,000 but for what I got I consider these pieces a steal.  I'm having a pair of single driver speakers built using Common Sense Audio's Super AlNico 15" drivers.  The cabinets are being designed by Chris Stanfill who's training is in engineering and has a severe disdain for "snake oil".  Cabling is Duelund tinned copper in an oil cloth casing.  I made my own IC's and am running 16 ga direct from the binding posts to the terminals on the back of a loaner pair of KEF LS50s.  No bi wiring or jumpers needed.  I replaced AQ cables that cost 20x the price and the Duelunds kick the crap out of them in my opinion.

I applied the same philosophy I do to fine wine.  Any idiot can write a check.  It takes a great palate to find a truly stunning bottle of wine at a sane price.  Same goes for my ears and what sounds good to me.