You've asked a pretty hard question since we don't know enough about the space where you're planning to use the system. I actually just did this for my sister. She wanted a modest-but-good system that would be a minimum of bother (read: no tubes). The VPI Traveler/Ortofon 2M Black combo is a good idea. I was able to find her a VPI Scout with a different Ortofon for about $1,000. We also got a British brand: LFD integrated amplifier with a built-in phono stage for moving magnet cartridges, which was about $2,700. She added a dock for her iPod which plugged into another input on the LFD. Finally the speakers were a used set of Green Mountain Audio Europa's which were about $900. After adding in wire, and a CD player that I gave her, we ended up at about $4,800, pretty close to where you are looking.
And the system sounds fantastic! The Green Mountain speakers present a very natural sound, great with classical, orchestral music, and rock, although they do not have deep bass. The LFD is a real gem, and totally innocuous. You don't notice all the great things it does, until you compare it to lesser gear. It was obviously crafted by someone (Dr. Bewes) who cares about music.
Frankly you should probably track down local resources, either local audio dealers or a local audiophile group with members who will let you hear their systems. Your taste and ideal sonic profile might lead you to favor horn speakers, or planar speakers, or you might fall in love with little flea-powered single-ended amplifier systems. I think the most important things to note are a) it should be fun and b) getting stuff that works well together is critical to the best outcome. Buying based on reputation or putting together a random list of "recommended" components is a sure path to mediocrity.
Good luck with your search, and have fun!
And the system sounds fantastic! The Green Mountain speakers present a very natural sound, great with classical, orchestral music, and rock, although they do not have deep bass. The LFD is a real gem, and totally innocuous. You don't notice all the great things it does, until you compare it to lesser gear. It was obviously crafted by someone (Dr. Bewes) who cares about music.
Frankly you should probably track down local resources, either local audio dealers or a local audiophile group with members who will let you hear their systems. Your taste and ideal sonic profile might lead you to favor horn speakers, or planar speakers, or you might fall in love with little flea-powered single-ended amplifier systems. I think the most important things to note are a) it should be fun and b) getting stuff that works well together is critical to the best outcome. Buying based on reputation or putting together a random list of "recommended" components is a sure path to mediocrity.
Good luck with your search, and have fun!