I should start with speakers. This I know. I’d like to establish a new system.

I would get a KEF Blade Meta (or Blade II Meta) and put it along the long wall. 

Whatever Volti that fits your budget should be a good starting point.  It’s been a long time since I heard Cary so I don’t know how it sounds, but, you are looking in the right power range.  You could go even lower in power, but don’t stint on quality.  If you can stretch to get the Synthesis Audio A40 amp, you will have a terrific s tube integrated amp that has a first-rate built in DAC.  It runs KT66 tubes that, to me, generally sound better than KT88, 6550, KT120, and EL34 tubes.  

I like the 40.2 Harbeth speaker for its rich sound and large scale presentation.  It is not as dynamic sounding as I like, particularly at lower volume levels.  Volti speakers sound more alive.

Good luck on your search.

Welcome back my friend to the show that never ends.  A good idea to get out and listen to different setups.  Suggest checking out local dealers with listening rooms so you can determine which way you want to go.  Most will let you try at home and return the equipment if you want something else.  Hopefully someone in the southeast can give you some suggestions if you don’t have a dealer close by.  Enjoy your new musical journey! 

It’s an extremely personal choice that’s not so different than choosing a favorite beer or who you think is beautiful. We can tell you what we like, but you’re the one in the executive decision seat. It’s very subjective.

Speakers are also quite room dependent (and system dependent). It’s wise to pick the speakers, then get an amp suitable for driving them. (I do like tubes) If possible, try as many in your home as you can. Used can be a great way to get the most for the money if the right deal comes along, but are harder to audition in your home...however, they tend to resell for close to what you paid, should you change your mind. Good local dealers are harder to come by than they were 20 years ago. Kits are another good option for getting a lot for the money, but are also difficult to try in home, and tend to not resell as easily.

The BBC sound leans toward a smoother rich more refined tone with subtle details. Horns are typically more lively and more efficient.

Some names you might consider that weren’t as common two decades ago - Joseph Audio, Usher, Sonus Faber, Fyne, Revel, Magico, Totem, Gershman. I’m sure others will offer more suggestions. Active powered subwoofers are plentiful now too, and are a great way to fill a large room with solid bottom octaves without having a monster main speaker, and can help the main speakers sound clearer by removing the responsibility of producing the lowest octaves. .

My advice is to buy what you love, but finding it is the hard part! Enjoy your search, and good luck!

When I did what you're doing, here in Denver, CO, I took the following approach:

* Joined an audio club. There are now people in my area to talk to and hear their systems, for free.

* Began asking questions on the forum. If you search my handle here, you can see that many of the questions I've posed are basic, informational. They may be helpful. 

* Visited local brick and mortar stores.

* Bought used at TMR and then returned a couple pairs (minus re-stocking fee).

These steps allowed me to develop a stronger sense of my preferences. Speakers first, then amp and preamp.