How Do I Start Playing With the Big Boys and Girls


I've been into all kinds of music for 40+ years. Until now I haven't done anything to upgrade my equipment since 1985. I'm not interested in how loud I can go but how sonicly pure I can attain. What amp and pre-amp should I be looking at to power some Sonus Faber Signum speakers, which are bookshelf in size but big in sound? I'm also using a Linn Sondek LP12 turntable. I'd love to go into the tube amps (McIntosh for example), but I am overwhelmed with the choices and different power specifications.
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Showing 1 response by jdombrow

The other replies are right. You need to narrow it down to a manageable list. So first, determine your absolute budget for all components (including cables). Then determine some basic requirements. What is the minimum power needed for optimal performance from your speakers? What features are important in each component? You may have to ask a lot of questions just to determine this. What are the predominant charcteristics of your speakers, and which brands or types of components will enhance this? Are looks important? Do you want to buy new, or is used acceptable? Does building all or part of your system appeal to you? I'd suggest you spend some time reading through the archives here and at AudioAsylum.com until you get a sense of what's important to you. Then you can start to narrow it down. Try not to buy anything you can't listen to in your own home first.

Good luck, and enjoy the ride!

jd