thanks everyone! ...
Dave .... the DM2a's were a bit 'loose' on bass (and tired sounding with the Pioneer A400, but they need more power to perform better ...
works very well with the SA-9800 (100 watts @8 ohm) ... had some issues initially with speaker placement, but works fine when moved approx 2 foot from the back walls ... you can actually 'feel' the bass (if that makes sense)
I am a big fan of the IMF's (TLS80's and 50's) ...watch the prices daily and seem to be fetching high prices now ... (sold mine for £220) ... suppose I always fancied the transmission line speakers (auditioned some Mezzo 8's a month ago ... and was deeply dissapointed ... bass was lacking (suppose I am just used to the way my system and speakers sounds?)
Many people on WHF (what hi fi forum) have been praising the Rega cdp so will look very closely at that ... may keep the marantz for my 2nd system, but can say that the old Pioneer is very good ... so will be a toss up (could possibly sell the marantz and put that money towards my next cdp ... should get my £130 back as is in mint condition with box, instructions and certificate/remote)
... will look closely at your other recommendations as regards speakers ... as mentioned, I fancy the ditton 66's and should do well with bryston or old krell amplifiers ... I have space for large speakers
Hi Neil ... thanks for the welcome ... this is a super site!