Are you the kind of person that constantly second guesses yourself? Have you already “been there, done that” enough so you can categorically state preferences without doubt? Do you have a budget in mind or a performance goal? Are you in a hurry?
if you’re starting from scratch it might be worthwhile to buy budget used gear of different types to compare, especially speakers, so you have firsthand experience rather than just blindly following a bunch of yahoos on the internet. This will clue you into your personal preferences and help with setup. Don’t skimp on room treatments though. Budget those for where you want to end up. Every system can benefit from a better room. (I’ve often thought that at some budget level designing and building a dedicated room is more economical than fighting a poor one.)
Once you think you’ve done your research start introducing endgame components into your starter system. It’s probably best to start with speakers and work backwards: amp, pre (if needed), DAC, phono stage, sources. Get appropriate cables as needed. Don’t be afraid to change your mind along the way if priorities change. You may end up with more than one system or a bunch of great gear that you mix and match based on whim or mood. You may find as much entertainment from adjusting your system as you do from listening.
Alternately, ask for recommendations for a great local shop. Tell them your budget. Audition equipment. Trust their expertise. And be done with it.
if you’re starting from scratch it might be worthwhile to buy budget used gear of different types to compare, especially speakers, so you have firsthand experience rather than just blindly following a bunch of yahoos on the internet. This will clue you into your personal preferences and help with setup. Don’t skimp on room treatments though. Budget those for where you want to end up. Every system can benefit from a better room. (I’ve often thought that at some budget level designing and building a dedicated room is more economical than fighting a poor one.)
Once you think you’ve done your research start introducing endgame components into your starter system. It’s probably best to start with speakers and work backwards: amp, pre (if needed), DAC, phono stage, sources. Get appropriate cables as needed. Don’t be afraid to change your mind along the way if priorities change. You may end up with more than one system or a bunch of great gear that you mix and match based on whim or mood. You may find as much entertainment from adjusting your system as you do from listening.
Alternately, ask for recommendations for a great local shop. Tell them your budget. Audition equipment. Trust their expertise. And be done with it.