Philipp,
To answer the question you asked of Mattmiller the volume control is on the remote. I have tried going directly to the amp with my mcd201 to MC352 and it worked really well. You lose alot of functionality by not having a preamp or digital to analog converter. A c45 or c46 or mcd500 or mda1000 for that matter would allow you to add the best feature going today. And that would be a wi-fi music server and internet radio connection. There are many servers out there today. I use the logitech duet and it works great. Also I would recommend putting your components on wood with brass footers. The upgrade in sound is worth it.