2. analog
  3. 131223-99020

My jazz collection told me to get a *real* system

So I’m determined to put together my first serious analog system, having subsisted on entry-level NAD TT, integrated and phono amp for over 10 years. My tastes are very eclectic, but I’ve put together a nice jazz collection and that’s what’s really crying out. I’m looking at a budget of about $8K over the next 12-18 months. Yeah, that’s the trick: This ain’t gonna happen over night. But I’m willing to be patient with imbalances in my system as long as I’m headed in the right direction. And I’d rather go the route of buying the gear I really want for the long term rather than stop gaps and labor intensive upgrade paths etc. My life just doesn’t have room for that.

N.B.: Looking to stay SS, likely integrated+phono preamp configuration. Really just talking about the table, cart, and amplification ... speakers and ICs are OK for now.

Questions:
1) How would you divvy up the dough?
2) In what order would you buy the components?
3) Top 3 recommendations within each component category?
4) Other crucial considerations?

Appreciate the wisdom!
128x128jazztherapist

Showing 1 response by nordicnorm

nordicnorm
313 posts
 
I would echo considering a tube preamp but, then again, I have a lot of tubes in my system (phono stage, preamp, and monoblocks).

The problem with used is that until you have listened to a LOT of different brands, you are really buying stuff blind (or deaf...). Reading other people's opinions is of limited use as we all 'hear' (i.e. interpret music) differently. 

Building a synergistic system (i.e. where all the components compliment one another) is an art. 

Finding kindred spirits can be done by posting notices on forums such as this one, or reaching out to any local jazz societies.

Good luck in your journey. And remember - it's all about the music, not the gear. 

And having fun!
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