"minorl" Has given you some very "sound" advice. I may throw in my 2 cents worth. Many will emphasize loudspeakers over everything else.
It is a starting point. I have been completely surprised at how electronics (amplifiers & preamplifiers or an integrated) can make a loudspeaker that you may not have ever appreciated, sound like you just upgraded it or even sounds completely different. Please remember that amplifiers that essentially measure the same can sound completely different. Your ears have to make the call.
A dealer will only sell you what they carry and has a bias towards their "stuff" and may even make derogatory remarks about components that you have found to be very pleasing.
These are important choices that you really want to get right the first time and I am not sure that there is a fast route to achieving this.
Good luck and happy hunting!
It is a starting point. I have been completely surprised at how electronics (amplifiers & preamplifiers or an integrated) can make a loudspeaker that you may not have ever appreciated, sound like you just upgraded it or even sounds completely different. Please remember that amplifiers that essentially measure the same can sound completely different. Your ears have to make the call.
A dealer will only sell you what they carry and has a bias towards their "stuff" and may even make derogatory remarks about components that you have found to be very pleasing.
These are important choices that you really want to get right the first time and I am not sure that there is a fast route to achieving this.
Good luck and happy hunting!