Better 2-channel music

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.

A couple of things. First I did a comparison with two Oppos, the 95 and the 103 both as pre's to a 7 channel Outlaw amp. The 103 was underwhelming, and further research revealed that Oppo does not recommend it be used as a stand alone pre. My results bore this out.

Second, my experience with Emotiva is that their house sound tends to be bright. I note that because the OP mentions wanting some warmth. I actually ended up selling my three Emotiva components. Further to that, XMC owners are reporting occasional pops and clicks with Dirac, several have mentioned this on the AVS thread, and gotten slammed by Emo fanboys. I'd be cautious about that processor for now, and whatever the collective thinks on their forum.

My solution for two channel performance has been a separate system in another room. If that's not possible, 2 channel gear with theater bypass has proven to be a good compromise. You also need top notch speakers for best resolution, though. There is no free lunch.

Runnin, I didn't have a chance to A/B between 103 and 105, but I believe the 105 is far superior to 103 especially the analog stereo. I bought the 103 right after a "test drive" at a local audio HT store, and that was a mistake! I hope that keeping the 103 for movies (mostly from Amazon, Netflix, and Vudu) and investing in the Cambridge Audio Azur 851C for CDs and internet streaming music is the right choice. What do you think?
I have neither a movie theatre nor a separate rom for 2 channel music. My family room is also open to all other rooms on the almost 2000 square feet first floor. And I think that is the trend of future set up for most families for convenience and space limitation.
I understand Emotiva has no way to compare with other legendary brand names such as Mac, Bryston... but those amps cost 5-10 times more. I have 2 XPA-1, XPA-5 and XPA3 about $3200. At least they are pretty clean driving my Focal Electra 1038be II and 1000be center. For surround, I still keep my 20 year old Infinity Interlude IL10. when I'm satisfied with the rest, I'll replace them by Focal Aria SR900 array.
My question: Is the Cambridge Azur 851C today and the Marantz AV8802 6 months from now the right move? I won't touch the Emotiva XMC-1 for too many unpredictable factors.
Thank you.

851C review here.

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/cambridge-audio-azur-851c-cd-playerdac/

Just jump to the section on "Listening" and see what you think.

It was a great review. I think I'll try it. Thank you Twoleftears.