you might do better to offer to help him go audition.Such demostrations could seem intimidating first time out. Find out what his ears hear, and then you will know what to point him to.Of course, the difficulty is allowing him his own level of observation, going through the process with him, not for him.
$2000 budget -- what to buy?
A friend is about to buy his first non-mini audio system and has a budget of $2000, which he is willing to spend on new or used equipment. Any suggestions as to what kinds of components he might consider would be much-appreciated. I was thinking of recommending a used Linn Classik and a pair of Katan or Tukan speakers to keep things simple, or alternatively, a used Rega Planet, a used Creek integrated and Katan or Tukan speakers. What do you think?