Newbie to the awesome audiophile world

I hear you and was not meaning to disrespect your points at all.

I didn't think that at all.  One thing  newbies have going for them today is, GOOD stereo equipment has never been as inexpensive as it is now.  When I compare modern day stuff price wise, to stuff I purchased back in the day, I was robbed!!

I once bought a Sansui Receiver for $245.  63 watts per channel, the marketing boys squeezed out every last watt back then.  I shudder to think what the other specs were, probably all bogus anyway.  But, it had a wooden case and a nice light show.   I was in heaven.

My last receiver cost $299 new.  Harman Kardon, HK 3490.  Night and day.

Cheers

Rather cynical rok2id??

Not my intent, but, you would think that with all these audiophiles and all this gear, there would consensus on something.   At least ONE thing.   And EVERYONE speaks their opinion with Authority.   What's a newbie to do?

My advice:  spend as little as possible until you have the experience to know for yourself.

Cheers

You are in the wrong place.   Seeking information about gear on this site, is like  being adrift on a raft, in the middle of the Pacific, dying of thirst.

Whichever brands are not mentioned here, those for the masses,  are the ones you want to start with.   I would suggest inexpensive Receiver, CD player and speakers.   Then listen for a few years.

Cheers