Upgrade Marantz 5004 CDP to what ?

You've obviously done your homework on this upgrade. I would suggest you try a different DAC; they come in all flavors.

To get the most out of a standalone DAC, a usb to spdif reclocker should be added to the chain. Both can be had for $1000.
Check out Audio Advisor; they have a 30 day return policy if you're not happy with the item. (and the Blue Jeans cable is quite decent).

I still say that a preamp is most likely the best upgrade. That said:

"05-14-14: Bob_reynolds
From JA's measurement sidebar in Stereophile:

The Marantz CD5004's measured performance indicates that its intrinsic resolution is better than is needed by the CD medium. That it can offer this level of performance for just $350 is astonishing.

I'd look elsewhere than the source for the sonic tweaking you want. Speakers would be my first choice, but maybe a tube buffer would get you there.
Bob_reynolds (Threads | Answers | This Thread)

05-14-14: Darkstar1
I appreciate all the responses. I am aware of the stereophile review. It is indeed a great CDP. I'm not really trying to tweak my timbre or sound. I just want more detail, more of a layered soundstage and maybe a little smoother sound. The smoother sound is the least important as it's pretty good in this area already."

You're only focusing on half of a CD player here. The digital half. To be successful, you need to consider the analog portion as well. That has at just as much, if not more, to do with how a player sounds. A good place to start would be to look at CD players that are made by companies that make other products you like. For example, I like Ayre. The Ayre "house sound" is present in all their products (at least I think so).

Now look at this quote:

"It's hard to swallow that upgrading a $300 CDP is not the solution when my speakers and amp cost so much more."

Nothing could be further from the truth. Sometimes the cheaper component sounds better. Just because something costs more doesn't mean its not as good. Going by price, I feel, is not the best way to put together a system. Pick your components based of sound quality.

Why not a better Marantz? I have the sa8004, around $1000 and their is a mew model around $1200. Plus, it plays sacd, has a great DAC and USB. I think it sounds great. Review in Absolute Sound.

As a previous owner of a Marantz Sa-11S1, I suggest considering another option. If you can find a good used Arcam FMJ Cd-37, it's definitely worth considering. I've had them both and greatly preferred the Arcam. It's something of an off the radar "sleeper" but there are reviews out there to help you get a handle on its sound. They are well built and sound great. I bought a demo from a dealer for just over $1k. Another option for a good sounding bargain are the re-manufactured units sold by accessories4less in Orlando. They are factory authorized resellers who offer good discounts if you're willing to consider B-stock. The Marantz Sa80o4 and Onkyo C7000 are both good options at your stated price point.

www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/category/cdplayer/home-audio/cd-sacd-players/1.html

I wish I could hear some Acram cdp players I have read very positive things about them in the fourms.

Well I hear you about more money $$$$ not = better sound quality. I have recently heard a very high priced system that really didn't impress me over what I have currently. That being said I did choose my gear based on sound quality as opposed to price.

I started with an older exposure intergrated. Before upgrading to the 17/18 I Listened to NAD,Rouge and Audio research gear an I still choose to go with what I have. My speakers were chosen between the local dealer had and I thought based on Sq and price this was the correct choice.

I have a creek tuner that I bought for 90 bucks on here and it's smoother and provides more depth and layered soundstage then the marantz. I would not say it has more detail though. This experience has made me think a source could change the music's presentation on my system. That is what leads me to believe I should be able to get what I am looking for with a better CDP.