I would look at the Marantz NA-11si as a DAC. At $3500, it is a mind bogglingly good device. Read the review in Stereophile compared to a $40K unit. I have heard this unit and wnd when I do take my next step forward, this is at the top of the list.

I just listened to that Ayre Acoustics pre-amp and I agree. That unit is an exceptional value.

I would probably go with Acostic Zens Adagio Junio Standmounts. I am a huge fan of everything Acoustic Zen does and these speakers are really sweet. Check out the review at 6 moons. The ribbon tweeters are special.

I would get a Sunfire XTEQ 12 for $2k. The JL Audio Fathoms come in at more than double the price of the Sunfire and I don't believe that it is 2x clearer.

That Musical fidelity unit is an interesting choice. I like it but recently sought out the Rogue Audio Medusa to listen too which is a hybrid tube class D for $2995 and all I can say is wow! I am thoroughly impressed by every rogue audio product I have heard and am now convinced that Class D amps are ready for prime time in that I have heard several that are just amazing.

Given that the Marantz is a network controller, you access data via wifi or Ethernet cable, it largely eliminates PC quality as a variable. You just need a working hard drive or flash storage.

I have heard every one of these units excepting the new Sunfire sub. I had listened to and currently own a Sunfire Tru sub and am confident that the new XTEQs will be at least a small step forward and the Tru subs were exceptional. If and when I get a proper listening room setup, this is the setup I intend to get. I will add in an RP8 and a Rega Aria phono stage and I would likely just get the Adagios instead of the Adgio JRs with a sub.