Far more often than not I see people putting their equipment in between their speakers. Why? Doesn't this screw up the image? if it doesn't screw it up due to reflections it surely makes it harder to "visualize" the players? In every room I set up I have nothing behind or between my speakers and it helps the "visualization". As a matter of fact I have front ported speakers just so I can listen in nearfield-ish(8ft) and I have at least 7ft of open space behind the speakers.

TheEntryLevel-ML-21068-ML-

Hello... this is my first post. I have a question to ask and do so with a certain amount of fear and trepidation...

I'm looking for a best 'bang for buck' system for playing CD and DVDs in the sub $1000 range. When I say 'system', I mean amp, speakers (2.0, 2.1, 5.1, anything), CD/DVDP, the lot.

I realise this is a high-end type forum, but owing to financial constraints, I'm still hoping that there may be some advice from experienced audiophiles for the price-range I can afford.

First, I want to congratulate Stereophile for offering more reviews of affordable choices in HiFi gear; this is a welcome re-awakening!

I started out looking to replace my old CD player, and find myself hoping for a music server, e.g., Olive, although price considerations may force me to go the music player, DAC, HDD route.

Most of your reviews on media players/servers talk about hooking them up to the Benchmark DAC 1, which retails for $950, a not inconsiderable price on its own.

My first post.
After years of being reasonably happy with CDs, I decided on my recent sabbatical it was high time to get a turntable. And build an LP collection to go with it...
The decision was made on a mountain, about 5,000 metres up, in Nepal, on the way to the tibetan border...
Hohenrausch may have had something to do with the decision...