What are your listening habbits? What kind of music will this system play? At what volume levels? How often do you listen? I think the amplifier/speaker match will probably be your most important decision. Example: if you listen to small jazz groups, chamber music, or acoustic and will not drive at loud volume levels, then maybe a horn speaker with SET tube amp may be a solution. I'm not saying this is how you sould go, but again, just an example.
Researching solutions for purchasing a system
I am looking help purchasing a system components, less turntable, to take full advantage of my vinyl collection. I've made an attempt to research practical solutions but have become thoroughly overwhelmed. All I have to show after several months of hard work is that I believe I'd like to have tube based pre,and mono block amplifiers. I don't care about about brand name or looks (too much), but would like to budget $3-4k for these. Speakers - Again, overwhelmed but have grown to like the sound of Magnepan (3.6) w/tweeters and sub (if needed). Budget for the speakers is about $3 to $4k. Any help is appreciated!