Steves55
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Joined: Jan 2 2006 - 1:55pm
Need help w/ a new system for music only
commsysman
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I don't know what kind of money you want to spend, but the Pioneer stuff is not that hard to beat; I would rate it about a 3 on a scale of 1 to 10.
If you want to go up to a 7 or an 8, the Musical Fidelity A3.5 at $1600 is a star performer. Even the NAD C320BEE would get a 6, and really impress compared to your old gear (at only $400).
For speakers, the Vandersteen Model 2C is a gem at about $1500, or the Infinty Primus 360 is great value at about $700. I guarantee you cant go wrong with those units; safe bets.
Marantz has a great SACD/CD player at $1100 (check their website...can't remember model number).

Buddha
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Commsysman makes good recommendations.

I would add one more thing that may or may not apply in the end:

Start by listening to some different speaker types on good demo systems and decide if you are a "planar" speaker guy.

The fact that you were so taken with the system you mention could be the nature of the Martin Logan electrostatic speakers.

Purely a taste thing, because speakers like the Vandersteen are great, but you may end up wanting to build your system around the sound of a certain speaker "type."

Listen to some new Martin Logans or Magneplanar speakers to get a feel for planars, then go listen to some dynamic speakers like the Vandersteens or other handy hi-fi brands at local dealers (NOT Best Buy or a chain store - a real live hi-fi store) and see what you think.

After you make that decision, let's talk some more!

MUDSHARK
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Start with the speakers. Once that is accomplished you will have a better idea of the power requirements. 200wpc may not be required. My speakers perform well with just a 60wpc Bryston. The reviews of this magazine and others like it may help form a long list that can be winnowed down by auditions.

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