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First Stereo System Help

Hi all,

This Christmas I received a Pro-ject Debut Carbon but will be building the rest of the system myself. This is my first stereo system so my knowledge is pretty limited and I'm looking for advice on speakers and an amp. Some (hopefully) helpful information and some of my thoughts.

1. Listening area will be an apartment living room, maybe ~350-400 sqft, don't need huge volume.

2. Hoping to spend ~$1000, fine with buying used.

3. I know I need a phono stage, and from what I've read the Rega Fono Mini is one of the best budget phono stages for MM cartridges and will outclass phono stages in integrated amps significantly. This has made me shy away from something like a Marantz PM6004 and lean towards a separate phono stage. Is this true?

Thanks in advance for your help.
priptonite

Showing 3 responses by kotta

kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
I don't know if it's still available but, LP Gear.com has listed on their website a new silver Brio 3 for $449. I saw another website which has them @ $499. You may want to check out.
kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
If you're really set on the Rega fono mini, i'd just go ahead and buy a Rega Brio 3. I saw a website which has a new silver one for a very attractive price. (But please note no headphone jack on the Rega. IMO, you'd get more bang for buck buying an headphone amp since you like headphone listening.) There was a thread not long posted here on AgoN on Int. amps. As far as speakers, do you want bookshelf or small floorstanders. Either would work well for you're space. Finally, try to work w/the brick and morter local dealer if they have something you're interested in. Be upfront w/them and see if they could cut you a deal and establish a relationship if possible. Finally, don't forget cabling. You don't need anything too expensive. Good Luck!
kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
Just be aware the 15.2 is the previous model. The new model which just came out is the 15.3. If I were to consider the 15.2 it would have to be around $400 new. You may be able to get a "demo" 15.3 for $420 here on AgoN. Let us know what you think of the two MH products you may audition. As far as the Rega fono pre-amp, if it's the same as what comes in the Brio, it should be a good sounding pre-amp. Good listening!
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