Looking to build a system for under $5k


Hello,

I am brand new to audio and looking to put a system together for around/under $5k all in. Any recommendations?

This would be mainly for CD audio but expandable for phono in the future. I have a small bedroom that I am dedicating as a music room upstairs in a cape cod style home. So it has angled walls that follow the roof line.

Looking for components that offer the biggest bang for the buck. I've done some research over the last couple of months and it seems like the Vandersteen 1Ci might be a good cornerstone to design a system around.


Thanks,

Joe

audionoobie

Showing 4 responses by lowrider57

Good advice to audition some Vandersteens or other speakers first. Then choose an amp that is a good match for your speakers; proper power rating, features, and tonal characteristics that are right for your taste.
An integrated amp would be the way to go to fit your budget. Some integrateds have a phonostage built-in for a TT/cartridge, or you can use a dedicated phono preamp.
You may want to prepare for the future, (which is music streaming), by looking at an Oppo spinner which plays CD’s and can accept streaming services.
@audionoobie,
I believe you are getting many recommendations for an integrated amp as opposed to separates because you have stated that you are new to audio and have a $5K budget. A high-end integrated provides good "bang for the buck" and allows a generous amount of your budget to be devoted to speakers and a digital source.

If you can find a used preamp and amp within your budget, then go for it. I prefer separates, but you'll need advice when matching the components. Due to different designs in electronics, certain criteria must be followed when mating a preamp, amp and speakers, such as voltage gain, impedance, current. Not to mention, sometimes a preamp doesn't mate well sonically with a particular amp.
Even the most experienced audiophiles experiment with matching components to find the right synergy.
There have been recommendations to add a subwoofer without knowing what speakers you will have and the size of your room.
The Vandersteen 1Ci are a starting point and you may need a subwoofer, but first you'll need to audition as many speakers as you can. And also make a decision on floorstanders or monitors.

BTW, what are the dimensions of your room?