Help in putting together my system with used equipment on Audiogon and eBay.

If you were to go with more efficient speakers, then you can save some money on amps.  For example, I just saw a First Watt J2 "open box" for $2500. It is rated at 25W but Pass stuff usually does much better in tests. If you bought the Tektons for $3000 you would have pretty good setup.  It just depends on how loud you like to listen.  The Rogue stuff also sounds good for a good price.  Lots of choices but speaker efficiency is a key point I think.  I bought a Topping D90 DAC for $630 and it is wonderful.  Got a Bluesound 2i for 419 refurbished.  Blue Jeans cable will save you lots of money on cable but I bought Pine Tree Audio and have all my wire and cords for about $700. 

I think I am going to stay with an integrated amplifier. Whether it is my hearing or there isn't enough details in the music I am playing with the Pass Labs X1 and Bryston 4b SST over my Yamaha 5250 it just doesn't sound that different to me. I will be selling the separates and buying a new integrated amplifier. It will be used for music and home theatre. I will also be selling my Audeze LCD-2's as I have discovered I like open air music over headphones. If anyone is interested please let me know, but I will be listing these here and other selling places.
If anyone has a good recommendation for a great integrated amplifier please let me know!!!

Well I settled on speakers at least. I found a pair of Von Schweikert VR4JR speakers for 2000 which included shipping. It was a great decision, the speakers sound incredible. I feel their decision to have the beautiful enclosure done in China by a furniture store made these much less expensive. Truly a full range speaker with excellent bass response. I would not have been happy to just hear a minimal gain in sound quality over my Klipsch Heresy III's and these did not disappoint.
Some have recommended I go to stereo stores and listen to speakers, but speaker stores are not going to carry older speaker models being sold for half the price. You really have to research the reviews and listen to ordinary audiophiles and their views on the speakers. I was actually sold on the VR4SR version of this model but those were a bit out of my budget and a bigger speaker to find the room for. The VR4JR was smaller and I was hoping the full range was represented in them as well, and I was right. Maybe not the ideal way to find speakers but it worked for me. The fact that they were recommended in a post or two to me helped my decision!

So I have a Yamaha Mx-800 with an MU 800 using a Denon DP62L with MM or  Rega Planar 3 with MC
B&W Matrix 802 series 3 speakers.  Wondering if a ModWright SWL 9.0 stereo phono preamplifier (Anniversary edition)
or a Audio Research SP-14 with upgrades and great phono stage would make my vinyl sound the best. Thanks

Going back to your first idea to buy speakers that are very expensive new and get them for about half price on audiogon, my suggestion is to take a look at the reviews for Sonus Faber Olympica line of speakers. They Olympica 2's cost $10,000 new but there are 2 pairs for sale right now on Agon for $4500-$5000 (or make a lower offer). Sonus Faber is renowned for the fit and finish and superb beauty of their fine wood and leather cabinets - they will likely be the best looking piece of furniture in your house - but also for musicality that matches the look. I owned the slightly larger Olympica 3's ($13K) for 5 years and loved them, and the 2's are similar in all respects except for size and number of woofers. I upgraded to Sonus Faber Cremonese which are unbelievable and like all Sonus Faber perfect for those who love music made with acoustic instruments - jazz and classical for instance. They can also rock but the sheer beauty of their sound for acoustic piano, guitars, cello, standup bass and voices is hard to beat at this price range. Note that Sonus Faber just introduced the new line of Olympica Nova speakers to replace the original Olympics which means you can find some great deals on the original line such as this one for a new pair at $6500
https://upscaleaudio.com/products/sonus-faber-olympica-ii-loudspeaker?variant=31551768461372&utm...

Just a thought. Good luck on your audio adventure.

I too am retired military in Jacksonville. Go to house of stereo on the southside. They are a great shop and have a good selection of high end gear. I have been doing business with them for over 20 years. I have demoed equipment from them, they are very accomodating.

I went to Best Buy to visit the "Magnolia Room" and listen to some speakers. All I have to say is WHAT A JOKE that was. There was not one person that gave a damn that I might be there to spend money on speakers. I think they have to stand there with you and switch to different speakers with an electronic switch so nobody wants do that apparently. I probably would not have bought them there anyway. Some Martin Logan's, B&W, Nothing I particularly wanted anyway.

You could go in so many directions depending on music tastes.  And you mix one wrong item and it is money wasted.  I like a mix of warm electronics with a bit snappier Speakers or vice versa.  If all
your gear is warm it could start to get muddy, if all sharper it could be fatiguing.  But that is for my ears.

And I wouldn't get into the old discs if you don't own any. You likely are not missing the specifics of the nostalgia so why go into that now, learn the gear with what you know for now. Maybe later out of curiosity. but for now put the money in what you will use.

Now I can't answer what you should do for your ears.  But for mine and my style here are some components I would consider. 

New or newer gear for speakers generally for me but not always.  (I don't mind having a warranty). 
For a warm system that is loud but clear and not deafening.
KEF R11 new, break them in or find a recently used pair. 
Paradigim Prestigie are a bit sharper so I might get a warmer set of electronics like McIntosh or a nice warm tube set for those.
B&W if you like, but then I would go with 802s and the older ones.  Great as a studio monitor but they are not warm.  But I loved the details.
Eggleston if you can find a good pair.  But bring a strong friend they are heavy, and they do like power so you want a strong amp too.
I also like Nola smaller, I hear the larger ones they have made are great so I would audition those, but I hear you will want a warmer amp.

Electronics I like my Arcam amps I like Parasound preamps and got a P3 but have not heard that mix together yet. but for a really warmer sound McIntosh I loved my older ones both amp and pre.  My friend loves them with his Klispch LaScalla (spelling?).  Of course you can get some good deals on Krell equipment and they are a good bet, but not sure which specifically I would go with.  If you want to go old school and warm try the early Superphon preamp.  But you will need to get out of the chair to change the volume this is as basic as you get.   

DAC I don't know enough about the best so I would experiment with any well know brand.  Might even try the Schitt since a surprising number of people have recommended it.

Just some things to try, but the key is try them.  If you like your current Pass Labs then keep it and bring home the speakers you think will compliment it. 

Good luck

Whatever you buy, replace all of the caps.  Not really. I just wanted to say that before the tweaknerds did.

4play thanks for the input, you are spot on with my thinking! I'll give the network audio a look. The cd ripper route is great sounding but the truth is along with zero vinyl I hardly have many cd's but the ones I have I listen to a lot.

I'm actually fond of Focal after having a lot of experience when I was younger and put together a pretty serious car stereo using Focal speakers, JL sub and more. I'll have to check them out.

@imabucfan,
If I had the money you have and you’re looking for speakers, I would have a serious look at the Focal Electra 1028 BE ($4999 New) or the 1038 Electra 1038 BE ($6999.00 New). Both can be had from Music Direct, and you get a 60 day money back guarantee. Another choice I would have a serious look at would be from Tekton Design. If you have the space, check out the Moab, power handling at 900 watts with a sensitivity of 98dB. Another choice would be the Double Impacts power handling is 400 watts with a sensitivity of 98.82dB. Tektons can only be purchased online and offer a 60 day risk free trial. You definitely need to check out both links before you decide otherwise. You will be amazed at the specs and both have awesome reviews. To me, you can’t go wrong by dealing with a company who offers a 60 day free trial in your home.
To give you an example of the Focal speakers, I have a pair of Focal 806V (discontinued) connected to a 40 watt tube integrated amp. This combination fills up my 11ft x 14ft living room and the music is natural and I get good bass without having a sub.

Instead of streaming, I would definitely without a doubt look into a network audio player. They are compatible to XMSirius, Rhapsody, and some others. However, you also get internet radio FREE. Check out vTuner’s Station List You can browse by Genre, Location, or Language. For me, this is a better setup than using a laptop to play all of your music.
I envy you as I wish I was in your shoes to put together my first / last superb audio system.
Good luck on your journey and have fun!!

Just to let you know we have a group here in the Jacksonville FL area, NEFAS, that has a few members that could be helpful to share ideas and insights.  We should talk.  Also going to Florida Audio Expo...
Rick

Here's where I'm at. I just hooked up my gear and it's a bit late so I can't turn it up until tomorrow or so. The Pass Labs X1/Bryston 4B SST is working perfectly and in low volume with my Marantz PMD-526C cd player I could tell the Bryston's 300wpc were causing the Klipsch Heresy III's to sound like they wanted to bust out of the cabinet. One thing I did notice with the cd player off is a bit of hiss from the Bryston and at high gain it got a bit louder. I read somewhere that turning the volume up with no source connected was a good way to tell how clean the music was going to sound, can someone weigh in on that topic??? I know with the music playing the hiss does not get any louder with volume so you won't tell it's there but it is. Are the tube amps/class A amps the same way?? Just want to know how that effects a good system. I am plugged into a Furman SS-6B Power Conditioner so I know it's not coming from household current (is it?)

Buy an integrated amp when you have a preamp you already love? Nobody has explained what they mean by get an integrated because it’s better. What I think they mean is it is easier to get the preamp section and the power section to match with an integrated amp, than it is when buying separates. I don’t think separates was a scheme to get people to by more pieces.

As far as the whole "you need to spend most of your budget on speakers" That is not necessarily true. Maybe see if there is a high end store around you and do some listening. Magnepan .7 is a good speaker. They are only 1,400.00 new. There is a video on Youtube (and maybe Patreon too), where this guy is using those Magnepan .7’s with a Jays Audio CDT2, ($2,200.00), A Jeff Rowland 535 amp ($5,900.00), and a Stella D700 DAC($1195.00) and raves about their performance. I’ll post a link in case you are inclined to view it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CpJnupgiNIU

...speakers: see what’s on the vintage market from Gershman Acoustics:
Can’t go wrong with anything from them (and no sub’s needed)!
And partner them with a PAIR OF PATHOS CLASSIC ONE MKIII HYBRID INTEGRATEDS IN MONO MODE, OPERATED FROM ONE REMOTE... ADD AN AUDIO MIRROR TROUBADOR DAC NEW!

Oh yeah!  Beginning around $3000, you can get some really good, newer B&W's, but don't go below a Nautilus or S series 803, or you will need subs.  (Exception: The 804 with the dual woofs is really good.)  I have the second generation 803's but must run subs with my second amp and pre-amp to get things phased properly.

Skip the phono.  It costs too much for the rewards.  Don't buy a crappy system and waste your money tweaking the hell out of it.  For your budget, it would be hard to beat old B&W 802's, either Series II or III, preferably the latter.  The Bryston amp is wonderful.  I slightly prefer my Audire over my Bryston, but Audire is extrinct, and you are looking at an ST version, redesigned by Stuart Taylor.  He did a lot for several companies, including the Adcom 555, which if put to the specs he actually designed, before the accountants neutered it, was great.
Get a good preamp.  I would recommend an Audire, but not anything you will ever see, because the much praised Legato is a bit weak in the power supply, and does not have the impact of the Diffet 3 or 5 or the Andante. The two is pretty good, but also rare.  I have had most of these and settled on two 3's, after I missed an Andante.  Try to find a really good CD player and tuner.  Go to fmtunerinfo.com to learn about these.  I tried many over the years, and their listening tests are spot on.  I would suggest that a Sansui TU707/717 as a minimum for both listening and playing with.  If you want to just set some stations and listen, the B&K  TS107.  It sounds so good that I have to use my Audire Diffet 3 to tell that it sounds different from my Monster Kenwood KT-917 I bought in 1979.   My Diffet 2 does not bring out the difference.  Sadly, the B&K is better than the 17 in the lower bass, but only on a really good recording.  If you decide to go for a TT, I do have one to sell, as well as a couple of extra arms, but I recommend you save your money for the rest of the system. Unfortunately,  i am a bit ignorant on current pre-amps that are within you budget, But I would get a Bryston to match your amp. $1700 amp;  $800 preamp;  $400 tuner;  $!500 B&W's;  and you have money for a good CD player and, if you wish, a streamer.

I've had a LOT of recommendations on tubes. I don't even know there was a tube PRE amp. How does a preamp make a difference in the sound? I thought it was just a unit to plug all the sources into. Man do I have a lot to learn. I want to than you all for the posts, I have learned a LOT from you all. I know it will be my personal taste in the synergy of the system I put together, that tubes, if I decide to implement them, will add to the synergy. A few have said the Class A/AB Pass XA30.5 amp would go well with my system. If I decide to hang on to my Klipsch Heresy III's, I will have to give them a listen or hopefully hear the difference from an audio store. I really need to figure out the digital side of my system, I am totally confused on that. I don't need a unit that streams wireless or an amp, but they all seem to do that. So a good DAC and cd ripper is what I'm after. I appreciate your posts! Please keep them coming, I learn a little from them all, and I still have a lot to lean. Thanks everyone. Especially Mrdecibel who recommended I take it slow and just buy a cd player for now. I had been listening to the tuner on my Yamaha 5250 for so long I thought that was as good as my system got, and then a clean signal from a cd went through them and DAMN! A newfound respect! If it gets a lot better from here, I am hooked!

Here’s a YouTube review of the Klipsch Cornwall IV if you haven’t seen it.

https://youtu.be/M8H3Wx80V3Y

 Steve G. also reviews a few other speakers you might be interested in his other reviews.

I haven’t heard your specific equipment but many of the other components described in a “Audio Show” environment. So much depends on system synergy too, so it would be hard for me to comment on the sound using your components. 
I would also recommend the Florida show to help you get some bearing on the type of speaker sound you like. Always let your ears, not specs or opinions be the judge (if at all possible).

Good luck in your journey.

I believe that a given system has a voice, tone, and emotion. 

For me, I love the sound of a cello, piano accents, a guitars.  For the music flows over me is the big win. Its my personal pleasure.

After you figure out the size and presence speakers and your system can have in your room. Listen to whatever systems you can and find the sound that speaks to you. My opinion is the speakers have the most to do with that voice. Then find the top level of that brand speaker that fits you and start there.

The speakers needs will drive what amp you should have. 

Vinyl is an expensive and if don't have a passion for it, put it on hold and go CD or stream.

Focus on Dac next. Go for a new or newish dac, preferably that can be take software updates. A basic blue ray player used as a transport will save you money. Just use it as a transport . Or stream directly to the dac

Start with the factory power cords, and most basic interconnects. Tweeks are fine turning and will not know where you want to stear your system till you live with it awhile.

Yes great gear, monoblocks, etc are awesome.  But even used to get full value of amps like Pass labs, T+A, BHK, etc. Your budget isn't gonna get you there.

But you can build to it if that what you want.

B+W, not my favorites. I find then fatiguing and too technical. That sound is theirs across the line. I bought a pair new, and wanted to like them, just never got there. Haven't even hooked them up after moving 4 years ok

5+++++ for millercarbn first advice, go for good integrated. Accuphase is in my mind it is warm easy to use very good build, you can upgrade to good sounding phono stage and good quality dac . You saving money on cables which is tricky part too . And if you like B&W don’t go cheap the cheap sound cheap....... good luck!!!!!!

To many of us overthink this hobby, just relax and enjoy what you have Pass and Bryston are near the top.

imabucfan

300wpc amp powering 99db sensitivity speakers is overkill ,
my friend has these speakers 
and powers them with an inexpensive chinese all tube integrated amp 
putting out 35 watts and they fill the room ( 16 x 22 ) with loud music 
and deep bass , he had a sub but put in storage .

As for tubes , look at Bob Carvers stereo tube amp and his warranty .

No matter which direction you choose go once you are set up and listening you'll want to start upgrading .

This Is A Very Addicting Hobby .
 

Bob, Mr.db and all, I received the Pass X1 and Bryston amp and will be setting it up with my inexpensive Marantz cd player to give it a listen! These beginning amps were selected from earlier recommendations and my research and reviews from others. I have worn out my Yamaha 5250 100wpc and yearn for live concert sound on a budget, but how much better will it be? Are my Klipsch better than I thought? Do I have to go tube amp or class A for cleaner sound? I bought the Bryston purely on reviews and 300wpc. I will post my experience later, will it be the happy face or the chocolate yogurt emoji???
Tubes might be too expensive to maintain??? Class A how many wpc do I need to get loud? Is 30 enough in the Pass Labs XA30.5? You all know what I'm going through. Don't say I need to hear them all, I know somebody already has. Can someone weigh in that knows? The Pass/Bryston will be good. Can I do better?

Although I have made a few recommendations, I have to agree with MrDB about living and learning about your present situation at your system--learning what it is in the music that really gets you going, and just hearing other's systems also.

Bob

Get over your fascination with B&W...as it has been mentioned, far overrated. 

Separates are way more fun , at least in my experience. 
How about my  Pass XA30.5  to go with your Pass preamp?   I've been toying with the idea of selling it for more than a year now.   It doesn't have 200 hrs on it for its time in my possession and I bought it from the original owner about 5 or 6 yrs ago  and was not shipped as I was able to pick it up.   Not saying I will sell  for sure.. depends on number of factors not the least of which is its a fantastic amp but Im just not using it much.   Send me a message if interested ..   8>)

Hi
How big is your room that you want to use?

That could direct you with size etc....

8k is either alot of $$$ or not ...depending on your tastes...

I am a Ohm Walsh 5 owner... I am friends with John and Evan at Ohm... I live and work near by the factory..

At last NYC audio show... they shown off a pair of Walsh Super 2's ( Walsh 2 that are upgraded to current Walsh 2000 technology) running with a done over Carver C-1 preamp. ( it also has MM and MC phono preamp built in) if you want to go that way....   and a Serviced Carver m1.0T Opt II mark II  upgraded by Greg Garska at Nelion Audio , Bob Carver recommends him ( letter on site ). 

see link
https://nelionaudio.com/index.php?/services.html/carver/carver-amplifiers/carver-m-10t-mkii-opt002-r...

The equipment that Ohm used at the show was my backup system .... plus for streamer we used a Bluesound Node2. and with thumb drive full of music....

Walsh 2000.  i think are 2800 pairCarver m1.ot with upgrades and service I think greg sells for 850 when he has them ( 500 wpc) .
Carver c-1 ....  seen them unupgraded for 200$ ebay.  greg does the Billd upgrade and service for I think 350...
Node2 not sold anymore now a Node2i ( slight change in its wifi).  is alike 500$ ....

My home system
as I have a large room like 13,000 cubic feet...
Walsh 5 upgraded to Super Walsh 5 LE ( original price like 6k).Amp...   Carver SevenT ( solid state mono blocks)... at i think 565 wpc... ( I really should use two m1.0t !! ( I have three... ) but I like look of the SevenT...
and a Carver c-1 w billD mod...node 2 streamer (amazon HD service...  ) currently using node 2 DAC.
(thinking of a Aries II DAC...or a Musical Paradise tube dac....  )
denon df-33f w/ denon 103D cart (MC)   I am not an audiophile... i just like gear !
well.....

Good HuntingBill

Imabucfan......We have been speaking via PM, but, I want to come out in the open about what I mentioned to you. Without listening, you ordered the Pass pre and Bryston amp. You could have done worse. Maybe not even better at those prices, simply different. You have Klipsch Heresy IIIs, and a good subwoofer. You need sources ( cd player / transport / DAC / streamer, etc ). I encouraged you to connect it all, and see ( HEAR ), what it would be like. Basic cabling for now. People still do not give Klipsch a fair deal, but so many renowned reviewers, have really liked the Heresy IIIs, and as you know, I am a Klispch Heritage fan boy ( for 50 years ). They do many things right. You are making yourself crazy at this point, and despite people here trying to help, they really are not. Use the gear you have. Many folks here, when they started, did not have the level of gear you have. Tubes, different amp, different speakers ? At this point, use what you have. Get your front end ( sources ), start listening to what you have, go to the Tampa show, and then, listen, again, to what you have. Find out what kind of listener YOU are, not the listener, everyone else is. The system you currently have, will extract much information from your selected source, as it will give you ( 1 ) the ability to find out what you like and dislike, as in educating your ears ( 2 ) the ability to play around with the room acoustics / listening chair sweet spot, with this system, as this will help you with any, and every, future change you make. I am hoping someone else here agrees with me, because, I am right. You, and everyone, need to slow down. With a good source or two, you have the makings of an excellent 1st system, and, a system in which to learn, about you, as a listener. That is all.

I have more to add, now that I have some time.  The VMPS speakers I mentioned are so good sounding and reviewed by experts that I put my speakers up for sale on Saturday last week, by Sunday had a full price offer and got another FP offer the next day from another.  Upon listening to them for the first time since I bought my idea of the speakers I couldn't afford, but got a very good deal on, I was floored at the new ability they had since going through many cable changes in the 17 months with the dream speakers.  The VMPS speakers are among the few that have amazing detail, great potent bass, and hopping dynamics, with a wide, deep soundstage, and can play at high volume, yet sound great at low volume.  They are also adjustable in levels for the treble, mids and bass.  The bass can be played with to sound anywhere from very tight to much more full and places in-between.  So your room won't be such an issue by using a big, powerful speaker.  The electronic combo I recommended has a great tube preamp, and powerful class D amp that absolutely will do what you want, allow you to hear all that is going on.  You can take a bit of those who know a component or two and what they MAY do for the sound, but this is a very high chance of being way more system than you thought you could buy.

Hey, it's your money.
Bob

Your post reminds me of my re-entry into hifi about twelve years ago, and I'd hope you wouldn't repeat my mistake: since I lived in a backwater, I read everything and then spent tons experimenting and upgrading and downgrading.  If I had it to do all over again, I would have first spent money to travel to a large city with several good hi-end dealers and auditioned speakers.  While it is fact that ultimately what we all do is find a system that suits our listening rooms and tastes, speakers lock in the biggest chunk of what a system can do.  I also would not require expensive speakers: I've been quite happy with Tannoy Revolution XT8 speakers that cost $2400/pr. new, some of the least expensive speakers I've owned.

I would say the next step is choosing solid state vs. tubes.  The best system I ever owned used a tube preamp (Audio Research Reference 3) with a SS power amp (McIntosh MC-150);  speakers were Sonus Faber Cermona Ms.  Tubes give you flexibility in tailoring the sound after your purchase; changing tubes can radically change the sound.
A final remark: while I love vinyl and consider its unique sound irreplaceable, getting into vinyl would be the most expensive single choice you could make.  Far more cost effective to get a CD player for your existing music and then add streaming, assuming your internet connection supports it and you don't mind messing with computer stuff.
Enjoy the journey!

Lol! True davekayc! What I am looking for in these posts are multiple recommendations for an amp/preamp/digital gear/speakers. If I get multiple recommendations from these audio loving good people I know to take a hard look at it. An example is people recommending tube amps. I don't know the maintenance involved (tube replacement) and cost, but if that is the best way to a great system, will play loud and clean, I will definitely be considering it. Class A amps is another option. Speakers will be my choice and the best I can find. Digital equipment scares me, I want a media player not a wireless player, and I'm hoping to incorporate a DAC/headphone amp/cd player/cd ripper or as much as I can into one player. It seems to me the technology is really ramping up on this gear. The Innous Zen MK3 and the Bluesound Vault seem to be the most popular. Thanks to everyone, these posts are helping me a great deal!!!

With this amount of opinions you can pretty much do anything and youll be fine .  

I couldn't agree more with the advice to go out and hear some gear yourself, with music you're very familiar with.

I took a quick look, and there are some brick and mortar places in Jacksonville.  

The BestBuy at  9930 Southside Blvd has a Magnolia store inside.  Magnolia was an independent HiFi shop in the Pacific Northwest that was bought by BestBuy a few years ago.  They have stores inside a few select BestBuy locations, and carry B&W as well as Martin Logan and McIntosh gear plus others.

I see a couple others: Hoyt Stereo carries B&W, and House of Stereo might also be a place to try.

bobd207s I hope my audio falls into place for me like it did for you! Being a musician must help a lot putting a good system together! cakyol I have seen lots of Naim and Shiit gear in upper level systems, I will look at that. jahatl513 I have had suggestions to use tubes "somewhere" in my system with Klipsch, does that mean either preamp, amp or DAC? audioman58 another vote for tubes and tweaking! I've been thinking about my Bryston and I may have done better with a class A, but I was trying to stay within my budget. My first mistake? dmbwire thanks for tht info, I will be seeing them real soon! I'm just concerned about them using new gear rather than used older gear, but I do have a lot of questions! jji666 thanks, I have heard that from many. I think I need to get the best pair I can get. There are so many options! Bass from a Magnapan? I'll have to give them an audition! Bob thanks for the gear recommendation. They are going on my list! hauxon thank you, more for my list. I have considered the Nautilus but first I've heard about Polk. I'll watch for them. bullitt5094 that's another recommendation for Tektons! I might see them at the expo! vair68robert Younger is wishful thinking! Another tube recommendation. I have to figure out the best way to do that. I would hate to sell my Pass X1. It seems to be either tubes or class A, I really need to educate myself about the difference in sound. Maybe incorporate both? Thiel on my list! vinylrestingplace that is definitely something I don't look forward to, deciding I want to try another amp, selling what I have, buying the next thing. I wonder which is the best way to go, refining the best amp/preamp or buy the best speakers and get gear to drive them. I've heard both from several people and it's an interesting question indeed! fastfreight great post, thanks! You touched on areas I have lingering questions about. Even the carpet, I have wood flooring so that is something to consider. I agree, I think I'll use the Pass preamp until I decide the Bryston, although it will drive almost any speaker, may not be musical enough for me. As a speaker engineer put it, "I want to hear the smack of a singer's lips when they start to sing, and a symbol strike as if out of thin air". I don't know if my system will ever get that good, but the quest is on!!! 

Hi, your brain will hurt before this thread ends!  So many opinions and a broad question.  My thoughts:
1) you have a great pre amp; so stay with separates and wait on amp purchase until you know your speakers and have listened.  It's easy to wrap your head around how speakers compare in any given environment than it is to find the right amp to speaker combination.  So for that I like to hear advise and recommendations... I like a warm SS amp like my old Classe CA 2300 or the hybrid sound of the PS Audio BHK.  I have not heard a lot of Pass but everyone seems to love them.  $$
2) I have happily ripped my CD's, started streaming, and then bought a nice DAC and never looked back.  Vinyl (to me!!!) is as much about the experience of choosing, cleaning and cueing up an album...and chilling and listening.  Bad digital is bad, but it can get quite good (to me!).
3) I have both a PS Audio Direct Stream and an Auralic Vega G2.  They sound great with my Roon Nucleus and separates.  Again, vinyl looks and is cool and I keep thinking about it..but it would never be my core listening, just a fun thing to play with.  (flame away!).
3) People love to trash B&W.  I have had two sets of the original Nautilus 802's and they are awesome.  I have auditioned all the successor 802's. Diamond versions (?3) and the newest.  Somehow I think they got less smooth, more analytical sounding and less attractive.
But I like cars from the 60's.  You can get the 802N's for a great deal I agree.  I paid $4200 for mint ones two years ago.  They can be very revealing, and love a warm environment (carpeted basement!) Mine are staying.
4) I also think the Revel Ultima 2's either the Studios or especially the Salons are a great used value.  They are so smooth and calm and easy yet everything is there.  But so many choices in speakers and how they look in the room etc.  Ive been told pretty cabinets means less focus on the components but I think why not be beautiful as long as you like the sound?  I did audition and pass on the most beautiful Italian ones...
5) a couple of years from now, when everything sounds perfect, audition some nice power cables or interconnects from the Cable Company.  For a deposit and the price of shipping, its fun and educational.  I did not want to believe it could make a big difference, but in my systems and to my ears, upgrading my main power cables (conditioner and amp) and interconnects (Two sets XLR), made significant improvements.  They let you try the cables for two weeks, so easy to hear for yourself. Good Luck!  Ken

I'd work with what you already have and not sell anything, because you'll lose money. That said, in building any audio system (other than a headphone system) you need to start with your room: assess your room and pick speakers that effectively drive your room. Borrow speakers from dealers or friends if necessary to learn what works in your room. I can't tell you how many great components I've heard playing into great speakers that sound like crap because they were not suited to the room. For example, do you need to place speakers near or next to a wall? Larsen, certain Klipsch and other speakers work better in those locations. Don't pick B&W because of reputation. Find out if they drive your room. Once you've found your speakers, get an amp that will drive the speakers. Fortunately a Bryston will drive anything, so you are probably covered there, going backwards to the source component. But whatever you spend on the front end, it won't matter if your speakers don't sound good in your room, which is a much greater variable than the difference between amplifiers from Brand A and Brand B. 

As the Small Faces song says
" I wish that I knew what I know now when I was younger "

Since you are starting from scratch I'd recommend a tube or hybrid integrated amp , you'll save a lot by not by not having to spend money on interconnects and power cords . 
You have CD's and used ones are very cheap ,
CD players and their DAC chips have come a long way .  
I don't recommend jumping into Vinyl at first , something you could get into if you really love spending time and money on your hobby .
As for speakers , I'd say read Audiogon forums , 
read older copies of The Absolute Sound and Stereophile .

I have Thiel speakers so check out the Thiel Owners audiogon forum .

Good Luck and Happy Listening

I loved my B&W 804 Nautilus for a very long time and compared them with other speakers over the years. I did a trial on a pair of Tekton Double Impact speakers just to see what the fluff-up over Tekton was about. The 3K Tektons were a huge improvement over the 804s. I was so shocked and impressed with what Tekton was doing, I returned the DIs and purchased Ulfberhts. Those are out of your price range but I just wanted to relate this experience from a former, huge B&W fan. Tekton has a free trial period and will only require return freight. They are also extremely efficient and will certainly get loud if that's your thing. I built a Pass B1 Korg preamp and a F5 power amp. The Tektons love Pass too when fed from my turntable. After a long period of trial amplifiers/DACs/etc, for digital I chose a Lyngdorf integrated amp that includes an excellent internal DAC. So you would save the money for that. Just food for thought from my personal direct experience with this hardware. Not rumors on the internet. https://www.tektondesign.com   https://lyngdorf.com/

I can describe my system built on used/vintage components to give you an idea what you can do for few thousand dollars with used equipment.

Speakers: Polk Audio SRS 1.2TL - Yes, Polk but it’s from Polk golden years and true monsters. Mine have almost been totally rebuilt with higher grade crossover components and tweeters than original. I built new crossovers with all new components. Cost maybe around $3000 with upgrades. Many think these speakers are about volume but their true strength is the sound quality and imaging (at all levels). I also have a sub and I would recommend something like an SVS SB-3000 if your room is big.

Amplification: Combridge Audio Azur 851W - This amp delivers 200 wpc in 8 ohms and 350 wpc in the 4. The SRS 1.2TL should be around 4 ohms after the crossover upgrade. Plenty of power. Biased towards class A but runs a bit hot though. Got mine used for about $1000. My original plan was to power the SRS 1.2TL with something like a pair of Parasound JC1 monoblocks or a single JC5. Until then the Azur 851W works just fine.

Preamp-DAC: NAD M51 - Smooth and natural sounding DAC that can be used a preamp. Plenty of inputs. Got mine for about $1000 two years ago and can probably be found for less today. I might have opted for the CA Azur 851N preamp/dac/streamer to match the power amp but like the NAD so much I don’t wan’t to bother.

Streaming: Chromcast Audio & Rasberry Pi with RoPieee image for Roon. Cost almost free. :)

I think what I have hoarded sounds pretty amazing but with $8000 you should be able to get components that are considered more "high-end" than mine. :)

The possibilities are endless! I’d focus on the speakers first. You should have plenty of options if you’re willing to spend $4000-$5000 on used speakers ..802 Nautilus maybe.. Have fun!

imabucfan,

I have a mega system for your money if you go used:

Nuprime MCH-K38 amp $1250 (U)
Audible Illusions 3 preamp $925 (U)     if NOT going analog
VMPS RM30, RM40 speakers $1800-2700 (U)
Modwright Sony 9000, 9100, 5400 CD/SACD player $1000-1500 (U)
Acoustic BBQ cables get the double version ICs $279 each (N)
Acoustic BBQ Duelund speaker cables $379 (N)
VPI Classic turntable/arm $1600-1900 (U)
Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood cartridge $500-600 (U)
Acoustic BBQ power cables $200 each (N)

The last 3 items only if going analog, you would need to get the AI 3A or 3B full function preamp then. $1200-2350 depending on which model (U) instead of the AI 3.

Everything in your system would be absolutely top drawer and sound great together. The AI preamps are tubed and last a LONG time and sound great--very clear and transparent. The phono section in an AI is the equal of most any separate up to $3000 of more.

The Nuprime amp can be bridge to 400 watts per channel at 8 ohms and has a very dynamic, detailed sound, with terrific bass.

VMPS speaker are no longer made, but I’ve owned at least 5 of them--I was a demonstrator for VMPS for 4 years because I asked Brian Cheney if I could be one. The speakers are that impressive. Very detailed, dynamic, transparent, with potent bass.

The Modwright CD players changed my thoughts on CD. They are VERY good sounding in all ways.

I’ve had the combo of analog things I recommended. Work great together and is very good sound for the money.

The BBQ cables are very good sounding with much texture and transparency.

Good luck,
Bob

My $.02: keep the amp and preamp you have for now; spend as much of your budget as you can on good speakers. Spend as much time as you can trying out different speakers before you buy, as the the speaker is the biggest influence on sound, and sound preference is the most personal of choices.

Then build backwards from there with gear that works well with the speakers - i.e. an amp that controls bass well, etc., depending on the speakers, sources, etc.

BTW. Magnepans have amazing bass. It is not SPLs, which you can get from a subwoofer, but rather detailed, real bass sound.

The main point is, speakers are the biggest matter of preference and the most influential in the overall sound. So pick those first, all other gear being "interim," then slowly research and replace components to fit the speakers. Second most influential is source - lossless FLAC or CD being your best digital option. Then amp, then preamp.

Tweaks are a matter of managing your personality/compulsions as much as actually mattering in the sound. Some matter, many don't. YMMV.

Hoyt Stereo: (904) 247-9001

House of Stereo: (904) 642-6677

From my 40 years in Audio I have found having Vacuum tubes in the mix is a Big plus. Bryson is decent ,good value but not the most musical amps out there.
there are great integrated amps that 
may give more the the money such as a Pass Labs class A 60wpc integrated amp. Not knowing your speakers which 
I put first onthe list. Sonicly if you want seperates a good solid state like a pass 250,and a good quality used Vacuum tube preamp creates great system synergy . Sometimes it is better just to buy a few good pieces and save fir a good sourse , even power cords wiring
is several $1000 fora decent system .
i am just going by my vast experiences 
and having sold audio for years system synergy is important.

I can not imagine listening to Klipsch with out having a tube amp. I’ve had Pass preamps and tube amps or Nelson Pass’ First Watt SIT 3 (tube sounds without the tubes) for low watts, Conrad Johnson for tubes or Triode Labs or Cary Audio as well for tubes. Your ears will thank you. I’ve been down this road as well. Private Message me if you like. 

all in one (analog + digital):  Naim Audio Uniti Atom (about 3k)

phono preamp: Schiit Mani (about $150)

tt: Audio technica LP7 ($700)
MM cartridge: Nagaoka MP150 (about 250)

subwoofer: HSU research ULS 15 ($800) (600 watts RMS)
main speakers: JBL Studio 290 (1200 per pair)

You will still have money left over

I too am retired and loving it !! Long time audio fan with many audio systems over the years . I wouldn’t consider myself a audio perfectionist - but was a musician a long time ago so I know what I want my sound to be at an affordable budget for me. As for what I listen to it’s all over the place - Pat Metheny, Lyle Mays , Steely Dan, Chicago, Andrea Bocelli, Earth Wind and Fire, Brazilian Bossa Nova ( Marcos Valle, Ivan Lins, Elaine Elias ) , Rippingtons, Jeff Lorber - too much to mention. All CD’s I own and play through a bluetooth device. 2 years ago I bought most of my gear used - I wanted a simple system with clean tight sound on a very limited budget. I started with a used Emotiva XDA-1 Preamp / DAC , a used Parasound HCA MK1200 II Amp and a new Audioengine Bluetooth receiver. I plug all this into a Tripp Lite surge protector. My cables and wires are generic. For speakers I bought a new pair of the Polk Audio LSiM 705’s - I love the sound they produce - clean , not bright and tight bass. These might work for you and currently you can buy them direct from Polk Audio at 50% off ( wish I got in on this deal) . Hope this helps https://www.polkaudio.com/products/lsim705  Everyday for a couple hours I sit back and listen to this setup and am still thrilled how great it sounds - for me I couldn't be happier. Good luck with the search !!