I would suggest a McCormack DNA 0.5 amp and a CDP like the California Audio Labs CL-15, with variable output voltage. Later on your friend, as funds permit, can have the amp upgraded by SMC Audio. He could probably get into both of these pieces here on Audiogon for abot $1300-$1400, having money left over to buy better cables.
Building a system for a friend...Please Help
A friend of mine has decided to invest in a hi-end system. He and his wife enjoy music and feel that it is worth their investment. He recently purchased a pair of ProAc 1SC monitors and has asked me to recommend and integrated amp and cd player. The catch is that he doesn't want to spend more than 2k for both pieces and doesn't want tubes...otherwise I would have recommended a ARC CA-50. Therefore, I have been considering Musical Fidelity or Classe. Obviously he plans on purchasing used. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.