OK! Here's today's answer. Be warned that my answer may vary at my whim:

Speakers:
JM Labs Daline 3.1 at 350 bucks.

Or, if you are feeling like play time...

Dahlquist DQ-10's at 400 dollars.

Since both are "or best offer" I'm assuming that cost and not adding shipping. Shoot me if I'm off...

For amplification:

Musical Fidelity A220 integrated at 375.00.

Or maybe this creek at 275.00!

Or even this NAD for 275.00.

For my line source, I'll cop out and just try for a CD player:

I think this part of audio is screaming forward so fast that I'll buy new here and also go with the Marantz CD 5400. I've loved the CD-63 SE (I think that's the number) in our playroom system, so this is 299.00 well spent new.
http://www.amusicdirect.com/products/detail.asp?sku=AMARACD5400

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So, where are we...

Narrow it down to the JM labs at 350, the Creek or NAD at 275, and the Marantz at 299, and we end up at 924.00.

Add some Kimber cables at 69.00...
http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?cablintr&1132180396

And then off to Home Depot to try that outdoor extension cord trick or to buy some of that nice 12 gauge copper wire to make a run of bi-wire and I'm at a grand.

Lots of sound for the money!

In retrospect, our choices are very similar, I think I used the money I saved on the used market to move up in speaker quality.

My system is way under $1,000.....

Cambridge Audio A500 stereo integrated amp.....$250.00 (shipped)

Sony SCD-CE595 5 disc SACD/CD changer.....$170.00 (including tax)

Energy Connoisseur C-3 bookshelf speakers.....$325.00/pair (including tax)

Radio Shack 1M Fusion interconnect.....$13.00

PS Audio Prelude 2M speaker cables.....$56.00/pair (shipped)

Standesign BB-75 24" speaker stands.....$79.00/pair (shipped)

$893.00 total. All brand-new components from authorized dealers.

Given your budget number, it's hard to ignore Cambridge Audio. How about this set-up?
Cambridge Audio Azur 340C CD Player $250
Cambridge Audio Azur 340A Integrated Amp 250
Epos ELS3 Speakers 300
Target F570D Stands 80
Kimber Timbre Interconnects (1/2 meter) 85
Home Depot Speaker Cable 10

That leaves $25 to spend on Cd's. How can I know how good it sounds if I have nothing to play on it?

All the abovecan be had new, shipped free, with a 30 day money back guarantee. I'll admit that scoping the used market could easily result in neater stuff for the same money, but if one were really limited to the $1000 budget, the used approach might carry too much risk.

I would go used for under 1000:

P2 with a Dynavector 10x5/ Rega Planet CD Player
Rega Brio/Creek 4330
Loth-X Ion/Tannoy SYS600
DNM Cables

Depending on what you can find on Agon, you should be able to put a system consisting of this equipment for around 1K.

I vote used....

I just bought this as a retro system for my museum sound room:

Pioneer SA9500II Amp - 100 - ebay
Pioneer TX9500II Tuner - 125 - ebay
Pioneer PL-L1000 Table - 75 - ebay
Shure M-97eX Cartridge - 50 - ebay
Klipsch Heresy II - 350 - ebay (Didn't buy them yet)

Cables - Hosa 8.95 a pair
Speaker wire - Two hacked up old extension cards 0.00

Stones - Satanic Majesty - Sealed - 30.00

Sound - Priceless

NT

Trying to put together the $1000 system raised a couple of questions for me. How little could I spend to expand the system to include vinyl playback? How much more would I have had to spend to get the sound up to my level of expectations?

The classic question is,

Your system for $1000 doesn't do much. So far as I can see, all it does it play CDs, and doesn't have any bass to speak of.

I'd get much more for my money.

Apex 1225 DVD player. It will play not only CDs, but DVDs and CDRs with mp3 files. $30

Panasonic HE100 receiver: $200
Interconnects: comes with the Apex
Speaker cables: 12 cents/ft.
Paradigm Titan speakers for $225
HSU VTF-2 subwoofer: $400
Low form CD cabinet: $30

You're well under $1000, complete with bass, and you can play DVDs

Cambridge Audio makes an outboard photo pre-amp that's available for about $100.00. On my particular Cambridge integrated amp, I can add a phono board specically for my amp for $60.00.

And there're similar phono pre-amp at similar prices from Parasound, Pro-ject, NAD, Music Hall, etc....

okay - new gear under a grand

Turntable - Technics SLBD20 150 Amazon with cart
Jolida JD301A Integrated Hybrid Stereo amp 30WPC, 12AX7 input tubes, MOSFET output $350 phono stage Rolls $50
Speakers - Yamaha NS-5290 $200
CD - any walkman $50

It's interesting that the Technics SL-BD20B turntable was mentioned. I have one of these, which I picked up new at Sears for $100.00. Before anyone laughs, this is a very sturdy belt-drive turntable with detachable power cord and interconnects. Upgrade those and add a Grado P-mount cartridge, maybe put it on top of some Vibrapods, and you will have a very capable turntable for very little money.

I have been comtemplating the idea of adding the $100.00 TEAC A-L700P Tri-path "digital" power amp to my system and using the Cambridge Audio integrated amp as a pre-amp via its pre-outs. The TEAC power amp has been getting rave reviews on the 'net and would be great for a small system. If one is just starting to put together a system and only has one source (i.e. CD player), just add a Monarchy Audio passive "pre-amp" for $50.00 and you're set.

>Apex 1225 DVD player. It will play not only CDs, but DVDs and CDRs with mp3 files. $30
>Panasonic HE100 receiver: $200
>Interconnects: comes with the Apex
>Speaker cables: 12 cents/ft.
>Paradigm Titan speakers for $225
>HSU VTF-2 subwoofer: $400
>Low form CD cabinet: $30

>You're well under $1000, complete with bass, and you can play DVDs

Brilliant!

>I must assume that the recommendation contained a number of components with which you have personal experience.

Yes.

>The alternative would suggest admiration of frugality, not that there's any wrong with that of course.

When someone says "under $1,000", frugality seems to be implied.

Agreed! For a kilobuck, used is the only way to fly. My newest piece is from 1997 and still sounds better than a lot. $1000 for new gear won't get you much.

Quote:
My intent was really to focus on new gear as opposed to used. I too would opt for used gear and alter all my selections if that were my objective.

I think it's a great idea but, honestly, if someone were to come up to me and say "I want to build a decent system but only have about a grand to spend" I think that we would be doing that person a GREAT disservice to not point at used gear.

Personally, I'd point to:

Dynaco A-25 speakers ~ 125
Fisher 400C tube receiver ~ 500 (figure some repair)
Music Hall MMF-2.1 TT ~ 300
Toshiba 3960 DVD Player ~ 100

I'm a BIT over....but heck, I'd spot 'em a few bucks

BDT (Big Dumb Troy)

Quote:
Given your budget number, it's hard to ignore Cambridge Audio. How about this set-up?
Cambridge Audio Azur 340C CD Player $250
Cambridge Audio Azur 340A Integrated Amp 250
Epos ELS3 Speakers 300
Target F570D Stands 80
Kimber Timbre Interconnects (1/2 meter) 85
Home Depot Speaker Cable 10

That leaves $25 to spend on Cd's. How can I know how good it sounds if I have nothing to play on it?

All the abovecan be had new, shipped free, with a 30 day money back guarantee. I'll admit that scoping the used market could easily result in neater stuff for the same money, but if one were really limited to the $1000 budget, the used approach might carry too much risk.

I second Clay's system. The only thing I'd switch would be the speakers. I'd go for a pair of Paradigm Mini Monitors at @ $350.

Bill

I'll count in euros, everything is more expensive here anyway.
Vestel DVD-player

Sennheiser HD600 (already owned, bought for $20)
Cardas headphone cable upgrade ($150)
Antique Sound Labs DT OTL Mark III headphone amp ($400)
Parasound phono preamp ($150)
Project Debut III turntable ($280)

leaves $20 to order a pizza while I listen to my music

Does the lunatic who sold you your HD600's for twenty dollars have any more of them?

whoops, that was me...forgot to log in before I posted.

I like soundboy's choices because I've actualy heard all the main components and own one of them. My first thought was a music only system because that is my bias. I really like Norm's system also to expand the options and add 2 channel "home theater" support, the kind somebody like my parents would want, or put up with! Nice thinking.

The Apex and the Panasonic receiver are not anywhere close to the low rung of high end. There is no resolution at this point. The goal is to start with something that can grow and be built upon. The only thing good here is the HSU sub and possibly the Paradigms.

Jim,

Quote:
There is no resolution at this point.

have you heard the Panasonic receiver?

You're on the right track with the NAD C350. However, you'll need to get an external phono pre-amp if you were to use a turntable with the C350. Good inexpensive phono pre-amp starts at about $100.00, from such makes as NAD, Pro-ject, and Parasound.

Other brands you may want to check out include Cambridge Audio, Rotel, and that sleeper Pioneer Elite A-35R stereo integrated amp. BTW, the Panasonic XR series receivers are indeed awesome sounding.

I believe of all the integrated amps I mentioned, only the Pioneer Elite A-35R has a build-in phono pre-amp. The MSRP of this amp is $250.00 and only available through authorized brick-and-mortar dealer (unless you don't want warranty). The A-35R is often mentioned on sites such as head-fi.org because it also include a competent headphone output. Here's a review from an owner....

http://www6.head-fi.org/forums/showthread.php?t=90753&highlight=a-35r

The Pioneer can also function as a power amp, meaning an upgrade to a tube pre-amp is possible at a later time. I have been thinking of replacing my Cambridge Audio A500 with the Pioneer myself.

You may also want to consider the Onix A-60 stereo integrated amp at $299.00

http://www.av123.com/products_product.php?section=stock&product=4.1

I have actually been looking at the Yamaha YST-SW215 powered sub. I have a Cambridge Audio A500 stereo integrated amp (which I purchased when Audio Advisor was clearing them out) and I can use the pre-outs for the sub. I believe the sub is about $100.00.

I just want to give a "heads up" to those looking for inexpensive powered subs (or speakers)....Athena Technologies has an "outlet" site that sells discontinued subs/speakers, including some that were on Stereophile's Recommended Components List. Including those from Athena's predecessor Sound Dynamics. For those who don't know, Athena Tech and Sound Dynamics are part of API, owner of the Mirage and Energy brands.

http://www.audioprods.com/clearance_athena/

Being a cheapskate audiophile, I am stuck between getting the Yamaha sub or the Sennheiser HD-580 headphones ($150.00) for myself as a X'mas gift.

When my local Good Guys closed up shop recently, I was able to pick up a Monster Power Line aftermarket power cable for 50% off ($25.00). I can use it on my Cambridge Audio amp and see it makes a difference.

Holy cow, Soundboy!

Great link!

A person could put together a great pair of speakers for an astoundingly low price!

Thanks!

No sweat, Buddha.

Just passing along some savings.

Forget the Yamaha sub, and go for the 580"s. Merry Christmas.

The above post is mine, I just hadn't logged in.

Ok, here it goes: Infinity Primus 360 speakers at about $600.00. Cambridge integrated $250.00, A Sony SACD player at $140.00. Then the Radio Shack interconnects and Speaker wire. SO about $1030.00 Total. One can get the speakers on sale, as well as the SACD player, so at a sale price, under $1k.

good sound, for as little as i could muster new:

Wharfedale diamond 8.1 107$ pair http://www.audioadvisor.com/store/productdetail.asp?sku=WHARFD8.1B

Cambridge audio 540A Integrated and 540C cdp ~ 250$ each 500$ combined
http://www.audioadvisor.com/store/productdetail.asp?sku=CAMB540AS
http://www.audioadvisor.com/store/productdetail.asp?sku=DMCAMB540C

shipping is free, and interconnects/cables either diy (canare 4s11 bulk feet, and canare RCA's with cat5 cables) or from company like blue jeans should run no more than 50$

total price, about 650$ heck add the hsu vtf1 for 300 and your in under 1000, with a pretty nice system.

alternatives for speakers are floor standers
wharfedale diamond 8.3 170$
http://www.audioadvisor.com/store/productdetail.asp?sku=WHARFD8.3B

Quote:
My system is way under $1,000.....

Cambridge Audio A500 stereo integrated amp.....$250.00 (shipped)
Sony SCD-CE595 5 disc SACD/CD changer.....$170.00 (including tax)
Energy Connoisseur C-3 bookshelf speakers.....$325.00/pair (including tax)
Radio Shack 1M Fusion interconnect.....$13.00
PS Audio Prelude 2M speaker cables.....$56.00/pair (shipped)
Standesign BB-75 24" speaker stands.....$79.00/pair (shipped)

$893.00 total. All brand-new components from authorized dealers.

I just received my TEAC A-1D for $175.00 shipped. That should drop my total by another $75.00.

BTW, the Energy Connoisseur C-3 can be purchased now at Audio Advisor for $250.00/pair shipped.

I am new here & really enjoying this subject!
I need to replace my whole system, but as my name says i'm poor!
I want to go with an intergrated amp, but I also want to get more into multi-channel music. I've got a couple of DVD-A dics from AIX records & 1 from Chesky and I like the Dolby Digital versions,so I am eager to check out the MLP versions not to mention SACD! The multi-channel integrated amps are out of my price range, so I'm considering going with a Marantz reciever(SR 4600) & Cambridge universal player(dvd-87). I've looked online at a lot of full range speakers & am probably going with KLH's(9250) @ Best Buy. I don't think I'll need a Sub with the KLH's, but if I do I still have my NHT sub that I got to go with my super zeroes.

Think harder about your speaker choices. Huge gains can be made by buying the right speakers. Try and audition if you can.

Ok, so what do you think I should buy?
The KLH's are a name brand & are rated 28 hz-20 khz.
And the price is right!

Depends on how much you have to spend, I have infinity primus speakers which in mmy opinion sound very good and can be found for a heck of a deal.

I'm taking the day off today, so maybe some extra vicarious "system-izing" will add to my joy...

First one for the day:

Just for S&G, the Sonic Impact Class T Amp at 29.00.

Next, we have a local chain store called Fry's that has lots of computer stuff. For President's Day they have an AMD Sempron computer with 256meg RAM and 250 gig hard drive with CD/DVD read/write for 229.00. Add a "Buffalo" 250 gig external drive for 79.00 more.

We are at 330.00 total so far, and we have a multi-media source that you can upgrade later for sound card or DAC and keep the party going. Plus, you get double duty from the computer for streaming audio, watching DVD's, or MP3 or other digitally sourced sound. Plus plus, we get 500 gigs of space for uncompressed CD burning!

Now, time to go to Ebay...

So, here's the deal: We have 5 "hi fi" watts from the Sonic Impact, so let's bite the bullet and go look at Klipsch speakers.

I've seen Heresy or Heresy II speakers as low as 200 bucks, but they are only 96 dB sensitive.

We have lots of money to play with, so let's kick that sensitivity up a notch and look at Cornwalls in the 3-400 dollar range, at 101 dB.

Also, there are some newer KG4's at 94 dB, but with a sleeker footprint.

With all the cash we have left, let's go nuts and buy some La Scala's!

A black, scuffed up pair that work but aren't very pretty can be had for as low as 400 dineros.

104dB sensitivity gives us 110dB dynamic range in hi fi land, and if we figure in Sonic Impacts claims of the amp staying relatively alive up to 15 watts, we get 116dB range from the Klipsch. Rock and roll, dudes!

At 770.00, we have room for a trip to Home Depot or Audiogon for cables and speaker wire and such, and some play room to upgrade to connectors and power supply for the amp. We even have room to buy their pre-upgraded model at 130 dollars.

The speakers lend themselves to fun mods in the future, like the Bob Crites tweeter or crossover upgrades, or the ALK upgrade path. Klipsch maintains a great discussion forum for comparing notes, too!

Plus plus plus, you can play with equalization and sound parameters like cazy with your computer!

_____________________________
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Also, we have substitution room with something like the Teac integrated someone already mentioned at 175.00.

My computer room system is comprised of a Vaio computer that I got as a refurb from Sony for 300 bucks. I added the Buffalo external hard drive for 80 bucks to get to 500 gigs total, and a USB 2.0 upgrade kit for 40 bucks.

The computer sound card is plugged into a Marantz PM7000 that I got from Music Direct for 289.00.

The speakers are Infinity Intermezzo 2.6's (which Sterephile had in that Class A Limited Bass category) that I got from the Infinity/Harmon store on Ebay for about 300 bones.

That is almost exactly a kilo-dollar, in retrospect, without speaker wire or that interconnect thing that goes from the computer to the Marantz.

Which leads me to another side note: In hi fi, you have things sitting and gathering dust that your friends could use, and so do they. So, Big Mike supplied the speaker wire and terminations for free, and I forget where the computer to amp interconnect came from, but I don't recall buying anything!

Man, does this guy know how to take the day off or what?

Cornwalls, best dang party speaker I ever owned. Only problem with em was they had to be crankin'. Sorry I never had the opportunity to hear some tubes mated with em.

I finally switched to some Altec 205A's (large bookshelves on stands) that sounded much better at lower volumes but could still rock the house when it was party time. Like Jims' JBL's...they have real wood veener and cost me all of $300.00 smackers. Can't part with em, still in the closet. The only remaining piece of my Hi-Fi past.

I would tell you to have FUN, but you seem to have that well in hand.

RG

Buddha,

If they ever make a "Betty Ford Clinic" for Audiophiles you will have to sign up right away after that post!!!!! LOL

Two Clever Little Clocks would cancel each other out.

They can only be implemented in odd numbered groupings.

Same with jars of pebbles.

Then it's up to you to come to terms with funding hi fi terrorism.

You gotta admit, though, the ponderous sophistry supporting the effectiveness of Brilliant Pebbles is a thing to behold. If it weren't that the top surfaces of my speaker cabinets aren't flat, I'd be running out to get some.

Tried them at CES.

We actually treated an entire building at the St. Tropez and nobody noticed.

It seems that they already had a bunch of extremely clever and charming coffee makers and some slightly witty Jacuzzis.

The somewhat amusing curling iron was the real show stealer, however.

Maybe it was designed by John Curl, of Vendetta Research fame...