Incredible Audio System for $1K


First this Solid State system sounds as good as having a midrange cost tube amp. Most important sre the Speakers. I bought used Monitor Audio Silver 3i. They sound about as good as my previous Revel M22 that is a serious performing speaker. Next is a Douk NS-13G class D amplifier. This amp is stunning. Sounds same as a midrange cost tube amp. Produces 60 Watts RMS per channel. Uses newer Texas Instruments TPA3255 power amp that many report here is a serious performer. The amp has phono and 1 volt Aux input. It also has treble and bass controls. Using NE5532P op amps, it can be replaced with Muses 02 amps for greater performance, The tunable is a Pioneer. PL-30-K that is also a good performer. I bought open box on eBay for $299. Box was sealed never opened. I replaced cheap cartridge with a AT VM95E. Not quite the VM540ML but is a good performer. Finally, I bought a Meridian 504 FM tuner. Of course there are better sounding systems, but this system is an excellent performer. Does one need more?

jimbennet

A $1K outlay can go a long way if a system is bought used. Trebling your buying power is not unheard of within the second hand market.

Further enhancements can be incrementally applied if some of those products purchased are considered as “best buys” or “category winners” proven to bat well above average.

Everyone has to start and end this hobby somewhere. The perceived value is how well are you satisfied with what you presently have and hear. Another discussion is what is more satisfactory, somebody content with the sound they have, or someone constantly unfulfilled, searching for that absolute sound?

@grunge1000 - not to keep stirring the storm in the teacup, but many keen and perhaps inexperienced audiophiles read the posts here in Audiogon. It really doesn’t need to be said that the accuracy and consistency of posting is a responsibility we should never take lightly. I had not seen the other posting which facten had drawn attention to, and it provided me another data point in relation to the OP’s credibility of assessment. In fairness, facten was merely drawing attention to an inconsistency which might have misinformed or biased a less knowledgeable or discerning reader. I appreciate the calling out of such.

In friendship - kevin

You can build a relatively inexpensive system if you’re willing to buy used and open box too.  I’m putting together a 7.1 surround sound system.  I already had a great pair of bookshelf speakers for the left and right fronts and a sub that I bought open box (and yes the box was previously opened) and used respectively.  I just added a center channel and side surrounds and an AVR all used.  Finally I’m getting a used pair of Atmos height speakers for the front.  Together they cost less than 1/2 what the same equipment would cost new.  Plus it’s fun if you like the hunt and I’ve met some great people that love music too.  

I haven’t had any box speakers since the 90s but I’ve always been curious about Monitor speakers. Would like to hear them someday. High performing affordable kit intrigues me and I’m glad you found some. @jimbennet, is the system you mention your daily driver?