a first integrated amp to build a system around


I don't know if this is the right place to ask this question but I can't find a better one. So here it goes...

I have done some research trying to find the best amp/speaker/cd combo to build my first system.

My requirements are
total system cost < $2000
phono input
amp with good DAC for iPod/computer input
disc player recognizes HDCDs

I have a list of components but have no idea how to start narrowing it down or finding the right pairings. I almost certainly cannot go out and listen to all of these so I need to narrow my options before I go out and start listening. Starting with an integrated amp seems like a reasonable thing to do. Can you help me make my lists shorter?

Here are my lists of components:

Integrated Amp:
NAD D 3020
PS Sprout
Outlaw RR2150
Music Hall a15.3

Speakers:
Emotiva Airmotiv 4s
Direct Acoustics Silent Speakers II
others?

Disc Player:
OPPO BDP 103
Music Hall c-dac15.3
swiftundertoe

Showing 1 response by paraneer

I almost certainly cannot go out and listen to all of these so I need to narrow my options before I go out and start listening. Starting with an integrated amp seems like a reasonable thing to do.
Sorry but I disagree. Starting with the speakers sounds like the most reasonable thing to do. After you settle upon the speakers that sound best to you, then select the amp that will properly drive those speakers to whatever sound levels you're comfortable listening at without any fear of clipping.

So suggest you start auditioning speakers immediately, even if they are not the ID brands you list above. BTW, why those? Have you heard them? The Airmotives are active speakers meaning you don't need an amp. The Direct Acoustics are 6 ohm nominal, 4 ohm minimum with no sensitivity figures published. From the looks of these, neither is the ideal match for the amps you mention.

So before you spend a dime, suggest you google the two big speakers specs, impedance and sensitivity. Learn and understand them and how they relate to an amp. Then go out and audition as many speakers as you can paying attention to these specs, their driver compliment and how they ultimately sound to you. You'll be on your way to spending your 2 grand far more wisely.