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

OP

The Volti, Fyne, Pure Audio Project, are all over 95db efficient and very easy to drive....this will keep your costs down since you don't need a really powerful amp to drive them. The Yamaha NS5000 is not bad at 88db either, and most Sonus Fabers will be around 88db

The Revel Ultima Salon 2s are tougher at 86db, and the Joseph Audio are surprisingly easy despite 84db....but at 8 ohms

Sure, I’ll play.  ATC SCM20ASLT.  These are passive sealed towers with their best ‘S’ Spec tweeter.  Sugden IA 4 integrated amp.  33 WPC Class A throughout.  Retail well under 20K.  This combo is shockingly good.  Or, you can move up the two lines. You can figure out the rest.  Have fun torturing and confusing yourself.  Cheers

I am impressed and entirely grateful for the many personalized responses to my query. This information is very specifically useful. More than I’d bargained for. 

No decisions yet. My main house project is still ongoing so I have time before I finally furnish the new room. However, I do plan to concentrate on half the room - say 12’ across by 15’ deep for music (seating and equipment). So, the 15’ or so behind the listening position will be open space for mixed use. At the end of the day, It’s a man cave. Separate from my main home. There will be a bar involved (another “hobby”).

Here's another thought. Buy a ticket to Chicago, and go to Axpona 2025 on April 11th to 13th. Tickets to the show and hotels are very reasonable, and you'll be able to do months of research in a couple of days. That show in particular has helped me greatly in my education over the last 5 or 6 years.....huge exhibitor list and tons of gear to review.

I have been considering Axpona. This is a great idea. I went to CES out west back 20 years ago and it was a learning and rewarding experience.