i think when i do get a new amp, its got to have the volume control with 0.5db steps in it. the Arcam A70 has it, and the Marantz PM14s1se had it, and its much preferable to me as it is much more controllable, i find the amps that get too loud at the 9 o'clock position are difficult for me to get at the right volume, they just don't seem to have the control via remote.
cd player wise, i'd like a usb port that takes a usb memory stick, and an optical in for the tv sound. any other digital inputs would be a bonus. not bothered about sacd as i only own three of them. and i don't stream . i prefer to listen to my own CDs.