Oh yeah, vintage system from 3-4K, they sound very good, maybe a different coloration than todays' one, less transparent and detail freak but somehow more natural. As far as modern design: a used active ATC 100 or 150 or PCM loudspeakers, atc or bryston preamp, apogee dac and teac transport, and you may have better sound than a 100k system.
how much would you say a good set up cost
ok, we all have gear, but now days, what price do you think you have to spend to have a real good system. not over kill, just good equipment, good sound stage. all around mid to mid high. I'm saying at least 30-35 thousand gets you in that level. I was talking the other day with some friends and we never put a price on our gear. you always get this piece now then that later. but have you ever sat down and figured out just what you paid for your system. I was shocked when i did it.