Here's my bedroom system: Marantz CD65 mkII cd player; Creek 4240SE integrated amp; Alon Petites speakers; AudioQuest speaker wire and interconects. My advice is also to keep the first system simple with reliable components.
Musical system for under $2K?
My nephew stayed with us this past weekend, and was bitten by the "audio bug"...he now wants to put together an "affordable" music system for his appartment based around a CD player, an integrated amp, and a pair of monitor speakers. He listens mostly to classical and jazz, but also to rock from time to time. Any favorite combos? I'd prefer it if you limit your suggestions to systems that you own (or have owned) and that you have found to be musically accurate and satisfying over the long haul. His total budget, including stands, wire, and interconnects is just about $2000, and he is open to buying used if it helps him get more for his money. Thanks in advance for all your help. Deborah.