An Audiolab 8000S on closeout from Artech Electronics at $439 for a demo or $549 brand new (I use an old 8000A with a Cardas Golden power cord on it and it's outstanding). An RCA 5223P DVD player (last year's model-I have no idea what current RCA's sound like and it appears they've changed the DAC's)-I can't explain this, but it's a killer CD player-I sold an Arcam Alpha 8SE which lists out at over $1000 because the RCA easily outperforms it, and plays movies too. The 5223 is available on-line from Etronics for $179! I'd probably budget in about $125 for the lower priced Monster power conditioner-don't know the model #-for the DVD player as I found out (just today) it responds very well to power conditioning-plug your amp straight into the wall. Another $200-$250 for interconnect and cables-maybe some used Kimber 8TC (I am currently using the 8TC), perhaps the Homegrown silver interconnects at $70 or Pure Silver Sound for $139 (I use a half metre of Silver Audio Bullet 6.0's purchased used for $150 here on Audiogon). This leaves you about $500 left over for tuner, speakers and tweaks-I'd definitely buy some Vibrapods and Auric Illuminator!. Kind of complicated compared to purchasing the Linn Classic. It would be interesting to compare the system approach directly to the Classic.
Neophite needing advice
Hi - I am looking to buy a new music system (a CD player, an integrated amplifier, a tuner, and good bookshelf speakers), but have very little experience with the equipment part of the project - could anyone recommend a setup for up to $1500 to produce a good sound? I mostly listen to classical music and jazz. Thanks a lot.