First get fixed in your head how much treasure you would part with.A system for $1500 can be very satisfying but you may be able to afford and justify spending that or multiples thereof for each component.Next comes qualifiers like do I want to go less "audiophile" and into home theatre with budget.Lesser qualifiers would be can I get used to no tone controls on an "audiophile "piece?Then what will the room support.Smaller rooms can reproduce less bass and less power to get to "x" level of volume.A good set of book shelves like the B&W 805's matched with a good used Acurus DIA 100 intergrated amp could be bought used for $800 and $400 respectively.Had that combo myself and it had tremendous bang for the buck.BTW I sell HiFi for a living but their are some either smart cookies out their or at least obsessive compulsive types who know more than most of us who sling the boxes.Lastly don't give upon vinyl.The sound you can get from a $500-1000 'Table/cart can with some nice new vinyl or a score of a good condition old presssing can kickn the crap out of most CD's though generally they are getting better all the time.Look into a SACD/CD player as well or perhaps a CD-R recorder.Most of all HAVE FUN!!!!
new system for beginner
i am not terribly familar with hi quality stereo equipment. i am looking to build my first system though. i am mostly interested in buying used quality equipment. i do not have a lot of room to fill and i only listen to cds. i am wondering what the good brands are to with. speakers are the area of most concern and i haveno idea what to look for. if this is too novice of a thread i understand. my knowledge is limited and i have to start somewhere. thanks for any help.