2. amps-preamps
  3. 123038-76301

Building a system from scratch (other than speakers)

Hello all! This is my first post. I am a relative newbie when it comes to hifi but have been doing some research and reading the forums for a while now. I am looking to build a two channel system with the best quality sound for the money. My budget is approx. $5K. I have a pair of Martin Logan Theos in my home theater that I will be pulling out for the dedicated hifi setup. 
Mainly I'm looking for preamp and amp advice. I know a point of contention is the tube v ss debate, but have read on this forum and others that you get the most out of electrostatics with tubes. I know virtually nothing first hand about tubes so am concerned about maintenance and high ongoing cost. I don't have a lot of listening time anyway, less time for working on components. Is this something to worry about? 
Also, brand/model suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm concerned about mismatching the speakers and amp.
For cd I am looking at the OPPO BDP 105d and for vinyl the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon, but would appreciate advice here as well. 
Thank you all in advance!

arisingsound

Showing 4 responses by douglas_schroeder

douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
The gear available now is quite different than even five years ago. There are a lot more "integrated" options, such as integrated preamp with DAC, DAC with preamp (there is a difference), even some integrated CD players with preamp function. 

Servers are a serious option and should not be overlooked. OTOH, you can use a computer such as a Mac Mini, as I do, and use a form of integrated to achieve your goal. 

Lot's of options. Do not buy hastily.  :)
douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 

I'm rushing too quickly; software such as Audirvana, Amarra or HQPlayer is tremendously beneficial in playback of such files.

There are many full featured servers for file playback as well with built in DAC, storage, and software to link to phone or tablet.

Just keep researching as it will be well rewarded.

douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
I should have added Integrated amp with DAC
douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 

Arisingsound, yes, I use a Mac Mini, and I have PCM (ripped CD tracks uncompressed) in an AIFF format, and also DSD files for playback. From the Mac Mini I use a quality USB cable to... (here's where the options jump in number) you can select from the following options, and yet more:

DAC with preamp function (volume control) paired with amp

Preamp with DAC paired with amp

DAC paired with an Integrated amp

Any one of these options can yield terrific results.

More to discover