Starter System Suggestions


My godson has graduated from college, gotten his first job and moved into an apartment with friends. He has asked me to help him put together a starter system. His room is a fairly large rectangle and the system will go on the long wall but pushed down toward one end. His dad (my best bud) has always had a good hifi (which I have helped him with) so, fortunately or no, he knows what good sounds like. His budget is around $2K for an integrated (with digital inputs, DAC but no phono--a headphone amp would be a bonus) and speakers. He is thinking bookshelves but could go with small floorstanders if they were within his price range. He likes speakers with a wide dispersion pattern and a slightly warm presentation. I am interested in your suggestions for synergistic combinations that meet his needs in terms of functionality. I am going to encourage him to follow the thread and maybe contribute so please keep the suggestions flowing. Some brands I've suggested he explore:

Speakers: Proac Tablettes, Nola Boxers, Gershman Sonograms, ATCs, Harbeth

Electronics: Peachtree, NAD, Rotel, Bel Canto

I haven't heard most of these nor do I know how well they would work together so please weigh on the models above as well as additional suggestions.

Many thanks.
dodgealum

Showing 1 response by pdspecl

I'd like to suggest an Emotiva XPA-200 amp which is not too large physically but has enough power to power most bookshelf speakers with ease. Then, the Emotiva Stealth DC-1. Has a full function preamp, nice DAC, plus has dual headphone outputs. An exceptional value for the money, really. Shipped direct, good warranty plus includes a return policy.
I have the same amp and I'm amazed at how close it compares to my much more expensive Monarchy Audio amps.
I'll leave other Agon folks to suggest speakers.