Better 2-channel music

The Mac adds a little warmth and perhaps some depth. The XPA is a ton of clean power for the money. In my system I need a warmer sound and really enjoy some serious depth to my music. But yes, it is expensive.
The XMC is a great piece and will do wonders for theater. Is it better than 103 and 7007 combo, I'm not sure? You need to try some borrowed pieces. The other option is to eventually but the xmc knowing that you have 30 days to return it. The return shipping is nothing compared to getting to test it.
Will the xmc beat the 851 for 2 channel? I really doubt it! I think the 851 run in direct mode through the 7007 will sound phenomenal. Great way to start. Take your time and one piece at a time.
Buy the XMC when you get a 4k tv...just my opinion.

I'll post pics of my new listening room later in the week. We just put in a heavily reinforced ceiling, some sound treatment and all new wiring. Painting it on Monday or Tuesday.

Thank you Elevick. I take your advice and hold on the Marantz AV8801 or AV8802 but try the Cambridge 851C first. Crutchfield has 60 days to try.

Zd542 and/or Elevick. How would you compare the quality of movie sound between the Marantz AV8801 and Marantz SR7007 using 7 channel output to a 7 channel power amp? Would the difference be significant?

I have no clue. If I'm using my 105, it would go direct to the pre and direct to the amp. The oppo would do all of the processing. Ideally, the 2 marantz units should sound identical....but we know how those things go.

Elevick, so you said it's unnecessary to upgrade from SR7007 using only 7 channel outputs to AV8801, unless I move to AV8802 for Dolby Atmos. It was my mistake to choose 103 instead of 105, but the Cambridge 851C should be as good as or even better than 105 just the CD player part.