looking to build best vintage solid state system


In an attempt to save money I am looking to gain knowledge about the best system using equipment that is 7+ years old. I am a beginner so I am open to all the suggestions. Mostly listen to Jazz, bassa nova, folk, and latin.
palmert
Great feedback all! I havent bought anything yet and am still using my old Denon dra 345r as a received with Infinity sm-32. I am somewhat stagnant since I am not sure whether to buy the amp first, or the speakers. The porblem is that I heard the sonus faber cremona with primare components and for the first time understood the meaning "speakers disappeared" Anyway, prior to that i was leaning toward the B&W speakers with sunfire components. The bottom line is that all of this is way out of my budget and that somewhat describes my frusteration. Anyway, keep the feedback coming....thanks all!!!
You should find the speakers you like first. If at all possible go listen to them. Let us know your budget. As another poster stated an old Aragon or Rotel amp will work much better than your Denon. Concentrate on good speakers.