Reference disc player...UDP 205 or Marantz?

Niether of the players above are reference class imo. The only times i have heard an Oppo unit i was pretty underwhelmed, just average at best, the Marantz would be my pick of the two, but far from reference digital. 

Regardless, and this bears repeating, if in any way shape or form you begin to introduce video into the equation, the Oppo UDP-205 is instantly transformed into an absolute necessity, irrespective of any other components.

Ps68....I’m so glad you have it like that, to turn your nose up at a 2500.00 player! This commoner can’t do any better, SO YES, it IS reference for me!
I was actually asking for advice, not elitist posturing.

More power to you though.

Gdhal...yes, I completely agree. As a matter of fact, it WILL be my bluray player of choice when my current Marantz player finally dies.

Hmm, maybe I'll just get both.

@jonasandezekielI am an Oppo 105 owner and have been for five years; basically since it was released. So, I may be biased.

I heard the exact Marantz player you make mention of. It was in a system of Luxman 590AX II integrated, Marten Django L speakers, Frey wiring, and set up well (a little over $20K). The Marantz was definitely the weak link in that system. It was switched out for a Luxman D-o6u. It was definitely much better but still not lively enough for my taste. Though the Marantz is $2,500, it is not reference by a very long shot. Not trying to be disrespectful.

I've owned a few Marantz players and what was mentioned above I find resonates with me: the Marantz players are smooth sounding but roll of the sound up top. For me, that is a deal breaker.

Best of luck in your search.