I should start with speakers. This I know. I’d like to establish a new system.


Returning to a hobby I abandoned two decades ago as life interfered with my personal desires. I’d like to slip back in with a decent package for streaming the likes of Tidal and Qobuz. I’ve relieved myself of all software (vinyl and CDs).

I am currently drifting between horns or BBC sound. Two different worlds, but each intrigue me. Considering Volti Audio with Cary SLI80 Integrated while also Harbeth 40.2 with something like a VTL MB185 Series III. Schizophrenic I know.

Dedicated Room 12’W x 30’L x varied vaulted 11’H.

i’d appreciate any discussion or feedback on my personal dilemma. Opportunities to sample these pairings are not in my immediate grasp, but I can consider travel (SE USA) to educate myself in the process. Budget $20k on used market. TIA

toontrader

@yyzsantabarbara Good point. I wasn’t sure if he was planning to spend beyond that on other stuff. When you suggested he could get the Wotan for $2k, it made me think that it was $20k overall, not just for speakers. Otherwise, you could choose a more expensive amp option rather than just ensuring your suggestion (for  Kef + Wotan) come out to a neat $20k. I may be in error.

The $20k budget is to include speakers, integrated amp (or amp & preamp)

Ah, ok. Well opinions will vary about integrated vs. separates, but I'd imagine you could get a pretty nice used speaker for 10-13k and then use the rest for a really good integrated or separates.

@toontrader Richard Vandersteen is still around, and still relevant.  One of the coolest "got it together" guys I've met in all my years of audio. 

Volti Razz paired with a Cary SLI 80HS here and could not be happier! The synergy between them is sublime, like they were designed to work together. I’ve heard Volti plenty of times with Border Patrol amps and the sound is quite beautiful. But for me the Cary does everything i need and then some. Hits hard when I want to rock with Tool or Sanguisuabogg, or relax with Bill Evans and Oscar Peterson.