2. misc-audio
  3. 1266183196

Getting Started

Hi, I'm totally new to this hobby. So new, in fact, I have no system at all. After lurking here for a while, I thought it best to visit my local audiophile store. I did that last week and alas, it was not a good experience. When the clerks stopped ignoring me, they were very disinterested in my newby-questions and I was pretty quickly pissed off at what I perceived to be their dismissive, knowledge-snob attitude. What is so unfortunate about this is I live in a rural area and that's the only shop within 40 miles of me. I'm wondering if I can lean on you guys to help me put together a sub $2K amp and speaker pairing. It sucks to not demo but I don't have much choice currently. In the future, when I can find a good store where I can actually demo some stuff, I can upgrade. Right now, I just want to get into the game! I want a couple of floor-standers for primarily music (they'll be hooked to the TV as well). My room is 13x22. Thanks in advance.
badmoth

Showing 3 responses by tpreaves

tpreaves's avatar
tpreaves
2,687 posts
 
I know what you mean about the snobby attitudes at audio stores.They cry about business being so bad yet they still treat customers like crap.I don't get it.Keep in mind,all stores aren't like this.I also know what you mean about not having a store nearby,the closest store to me is almost 4 hours away.
You say you have a budget of around 2K for amp and speakers,what will you be using for a source?Personally,if I were just starting out,I would be looking at NAD equipment and PSB speakers.This is a no miss combination in my opinion(especially since you probably can't audition the equipment).These brands seem to work together well in just about any room.
For your size room I would recommend the following:NAD C355BEE Integrated Amp and PSB Image T65 speakers.If you need a CD player you can't beat the NAD C515BEE.Check out the authorized online sellers below.I think you will like their prices.Good luck.

https://dmc-electronics.com/Default.htm

http://www.saturdayaudio.com/
tpreaves's avatar
tpreaves
2,687 posts
 
Badmoth,the T6 is the replacement for the T65.That's why the T65 is on sale now.This is one of the nice things about audio,when the new models come out the older ones go on sale!!I haven't heard the T6 but I'm pretty sure it is comparable to the T65(which I have heard and really like).I suggested new equipment because,as a first time buyer,you will have the peace of mind that a waranty will bring and you will not have to worry if the stuff is damaged.When you get a better handle on the ins and outs of audio and where you want to go with it,you can start upgrading.Buying used can be intimidating at first but as you gain more knowledge you will become more comfortable with it.At least that's how it was for me.Again,I wish you good luck in your endeavor.
tpreaves's avatar
tpreaves
2,687 posts
 
Hey Hifi,were you there to buy a $2000.00 power cable? Tell the truth !!!!!!!!
More to discover