Hello jafant, your question is the million dollar question I first asked about. Other than the USB DAC option on the SA-11S3 I will have to wait and see sound wise. The Sony is outstanding with SACDs and SHM-CDs. I can't imagine the Marantz being that much if at all better, I just wanted to try something new since the turntable and cartridge set-up I want is out of reach at this time. I just love music and this awesome hobby of ours.