Returning to the hobby of audio systems after a long recess, the web forums seem to offer new resources for picking systems. Unfortunately, in my city, dealers no longer exist. Yet, the combinations/permutations of available components seem to have exploded. Without a dealer, it appears very difficult to decide on the proper matching of components, interconnects and cables.

RIAA: Those CD rips of yours are still "unauthorized"

http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/200...authorized.html

So I am using Bel Canto's DAC3 and am very pleased. I run cd/dvd through my Sony 999ES and cable and iTunes into it.
I watch movies on my 2 channel system and THINK I could get a better picture. I am also considering going high def video with BR or HD DVD.

I want a new player and my needs are as follows in order of importance:

excellent as a transport for audio
high quality video and MUST have upsampling for dvd and/or high def
preferably under $800
detachable power cord preferred
can be out of date model

The owner of the local indie record store told me the other day that vinyl sales have been climbing steadily over the past year or so, and he now sells more vinyl than CDs. This applies to both new and used titles. So I'm curious, is this a widespread trend, or just a local aberration?

Hi, I am looking for a component CD player that will produce great audio in stereo. I have a pair of NS-1000 Yamaha Speakers that are very clean and want a single Cd player for my best CD's like Diana Krall with no filtering. I don't want to break the bank so under $1000. The Technology is changing so fast, it is difficult to sort out. Figure someone has some reccomendations out there. I currently have a Nak cd player 2 and a onkyo dx-c390 which are great for background listening with multiple cd's but I know there is a better option out there for single quality cd's. Thanks

I have a dCs Elgar Plus, Purcell and Verdi going into a McIntosh MC501 which goes to a JMLab Focal Utopia Nova. It presently sounds a bit analytical and dry though extremely accurate. Could a dCs Verona solve this analytical sound by adding more bloom?

Q. How do you get a musician off your doorstep?

A. PAY him for the pizza.

Variant: how do you get an audiophile off your doorstep?
Tell him the soundstaging is more optimal out in the street...

Q. What do you call a musician without a girlfriend?

A. Homeless!

I just purchased an SACD player and would like some suggestions on discs that are essential. I'm not as knowledgeable in classical music as others so I need a little help.