New Speakers/Amps

do more research than just hangin' out here. you should listen to various systems if you have a possibility. a local high-end dealer may be a good start

Ipod advice: Make sure you are not using MP3 quality. Lossless audio makes a world of difference.

Thanks so much for all your inputs.

This will help me get started on setting up my first system. However, a few more questions...

I started researching right away from the first thread and realized the +ive reviews on NAD and am inclined to pick up a preowned one. Ive also found a few dealers here in Plano, TX (DFW) that carry NAD and plan to visit them soon. Some of the speakers that i can hear at the dealer's location are-

Magnepan, PSB, PMC, ProAc, Monitor Audio, GoldenEar, Linn, Speakercraft & Epicure. Ive not listed a few as they are a gazillion bucks! :)

Any thoughts on the above speakers? I forgot to mention in my initial post that i am looking for floor standing speakers only and the system will be set up in my living room area, which is a large area with 20 ft ceilings.

Vandersteen has great reviews but no dealership here to demo.

Thx again for the advice and look forward to more...

Ok, this is what I would do...

Zu Audio Omen speakers $1500 new.
Onix SP-3 integrated $500 used
Schiit Bifrost DAC $350 new.

I think high efficiency speakers will give you flexibility in case you decide to experiment with amplification in the future. I also think that if you intend to go with a digital front end, be it an ipod or a computer, then a decent digital audio converter is a must. I chose the Onix SP 3 for amplification because it is an amazingly well built tube integrated that can be had at a very reasonable price. The Onix will also help to tame any digital harshness that might come about from playing off an ipod. Good luck!

Cheers,

Ivan

Zu is nice so is Tekton. Both have in home review periods with money back if not satisfied so yopu can demo in your own home. Zu also has "dirty weekend" special that is rebuilt used models at $1000