Youve got a PC of some type
that could be the source with just a nice PCI sound card, or a USB/1394 sound card with analog outs. Either way you ought to get a nice one for < $250.
My M Audio delta series 24/192 new at Sam Ash was about $160 SPDIF & rca ANALOG OUTS & INs.
An Oppo player used could do, otherwise.
I like the idea of a tube pre SS amp integrated amp, or an all tube int.
Monitors seem logical too for speakerage. Where your priorities are in speakers vs front ends ought to determine how the int and speakers divide the budget.
Going active about eliminates the int portion allowing for a lot more $$$ into them. It also subtracts from some more flexible growth of the system, if you decide later on to go with passive ones. Theyll also need stands. DIY?
If you choose older speakers, you can get towers of course. Room size is gonna say something about things here.
Micro Pearls are quite decent ICs but a tad dry with SS, Audio Art work a bit better, either way but cost a bit more.
The Rat Shak 1.5M RCA ICS for $20 are surprising!
My M Audio delta series 24/192 new at Sam Ash was about $160 SPDIF & rca ANALOG OUTS & INs.
An Oppo player used could do, otherwise.
I like the idea of a tube pre SS amp integrated amp, or an all tube int.
Monitors seem logical too for speakerage. Where your priorities are in speakers vs front ends ought to determine how the int and speakers divide the budget.
Going active about eliminates the int portion allowing for a lot more $$$ into them. It also subtracts from some more flexible growth of the system, if you decide later on to go with passive ones. Theyll also need stands. DIY?
If you choose older speakers, you can get towers of course. Room size is gonna say something about things here.
Micro Pearls are quite decent ICs but a tad dry with SS, Audio Art work a bit better, either way but cost a bit more.
The Rat Shak 1.5M RCA ICS for $20 are surprising!