Opinion #1: Your choices should be directly related to the size of the room you intend to listen as well as whether that room can be controlled (acoustic treatment, for example). My room is small and it has presented many special challenges.
#2: I agree with the commenter who suggested that you do not need to match components by brand (unless you'd like to for aesthetic reasons).
#3: Start with speakers. Although no two components including electronics sound the same, The differences are greatest in speakers since they are mechanical as well as electrical. Same/next for phono cartridges. With exceptions, smaller speakers may be more satisfying in a smaller room.
4: What will you listen to? If, for instance, you will share your system with surround sound movies, you might want to add a subwoofer that can be switched out for jazz, for instance. Use your ears. A previous poster was correct when suggested that you listen for more than 5 minutes. What sounds flashy and exciting can often result in ear fatigue long term.
Anyhow, just some thoughts. Have fun and good luck with your decisions.
#2: I agree with the commenter who suggested that you do not need to match components by brand (unless you'd like to for aesthetic reasons).
#3: Start with speakers. Although no two components including electronics sound the same, The differences are greatest in speakers since they are mechanical as well as electrical. Same/next for phono cartridges. With exceptions, smaller speakers may be more satisfying in a smaller room.
4: What will you listen to? If, for instance, you will share your system with surround sound movies, you might want to add a subwoofer that can be switched out for jazz, for instance. Use your ears. A previous poster was correct when suggested that you listen for more than 5 minutes. What sounds flashy and exciting can often result in ear fatigue long term.
Anyhow, just some thoughts. Have fun and good luck with your decisions.