Setting up a system - What to buy WHEN?


Hello audiogon gurus!

I've been a long time browser over the years, but only just signed up today. I'd like to get some advice. I'll try to be brief as possible.

So I'm going to be putting together a system in Q1 once I get moved into a house and have a listening space. But I'm just not sure in which order to buy these pieces. I have a cheap setup now that'll serve as the starting point. It's just some cheap bang-for-the-buck type stuff I've picked up on Amazon and at Best Buy. Nothing really worth talking about except for the Pre-Amp. It's "decent" but not Audiophile by any means. It's a Rotel unit that set me back around $700. I mention this because given this one piece being better than the rest, well, I think it might just move the pre-amp purchase to one of the later ones.

Here's a list of what I need to buy (Sorted alphabetically):

  • DAC      
  • Main Amp 1
  • Main Amp 2
  • Main Speakers  
  • Phono PreAmp  
  • Power Conditioner
  • Pre-Amp    
  • Turntable + Stylus

note: My plan is to hopefully be able to buy an amp that'll power both mains on it's own. Then circle back later, buy another of the same unit. Then I'll swap each over to monoblock mode - one driving each main.

So because of the cost of these items, Basically each line in my list will be a separate purchase spaced out over time. How long? I'm not sure. something something "money don't grown on trees . . . "

So I ask you all, what's the order of operations here? What should get bought first???? I currently have all of these units - now it's time to upgrade! I look forward to hearing from you.

ps. This thread isn't about brands ;)

128x128bigslacker

Showing 3 responses by bigslacker

I should mention the system will probably be used primarily for the turntable. After I source some HQ sound files, I can see streaming those frequently too. Maybe 50/50.
So I guess DAC would also be near the end of the list. And I'm also guessing either the TT or speakers would be the first thing to get upgraded. As to the order of the other pieces. . . . lol I'm still clueless.



Ps. Thank You, Al. I'll start looking for a good show to attend.


Wow, Great!
Speakers first it is! Thanks to all who replied with their tips and suggestions. (Especially Big Joe with his 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc list.)
I've auditioned some speakers and have some more to listen to.
Thanks again, all!

One point with one amp then strapping it and buying a second to make mono. Most stereo amps will not be happy bridged to mono driving a 4 ohm speaker.

Great point! I was thinking of amps that support this feature only. I've seen the rear of certain amps that have a toggle switch for this kind of mode, and that's what I was thinking of but didn't say it directly.  Thanks!