Upgrade Marantz 5004 CDP to what ?

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.

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

"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."

This is why its so important to demo equipment. Results can be relative and will vary depending on personal preferences. I have an Arcam 33 and like it very much. Compared to my other players (both Wadia), the Arcam doesn't do the audiophile stuff (imaging, dynamic contrast, scale, detail.....) nearly as well. Its a more forgiving, easy to listen to kind of player. I use it, for the most part, on recordings that don't sound good on the Wadia.

"Looking for more detail a smooth sound which can expand soundstage particular depth."

That's you stated goal. I'm not sure an Arcam would be the best choice. But only you can make that decision. One other thing I would mention about you goal is, for the most part, the qualities you are seeking to improve upon, have more to do with the analog section of the CD player than the digital. I would focus there. (Or a new preamp!. Sorry, I know you're probably tired of hearing me say the same thing.)

While I agree with Zd, regarding benefits of a pre toward attainment of your goals, you seem happy with your Exposure equip. I would consider the purchase of a used external DAC and use the 5004 as a transport. A DAC will provide greater flexibility regarding the potential use of other digital sources. Using my case as an example, I use a Arcam DVD-137 as a transport, but also use a computer via a SPDIF/USB converter, therefore I wanted a DAC with two SPDIF coax inputs. I bought a used Bryston BDA-1 which allowed that flexibility. As a DAC, I feel it is as good as I could own for my $$$ (~$1000 used). It's weak link is its USB input, non asynch. The USB/SPDIF converter covers that problem and facilitates further flexibility. I recognize that the consideration of a DAC opens additional complicating options, and apologize for this, I just think it might be one you should consider. Good luck in your quest.