Sound System on $10K Budget


All, sorry if this has been asked a million times before. I am looking to build a home audio system from scratch and want to keep it under $10K. I have no idea where to start, and scrolling through this forum has just made me more overwhelmed. For context, I have a headphone setup (Meze Empyrean and HD 800S and a Vioelectric V280/1). Unfortunately, I haven't used the system in over a year--I find it too difficult given all the wires, turning my desktop on, etc. As such, I am looking to put in a home audio system that I can more casually listen to as I work, cook, etc.

The room I am putting the system in is 34 x 20 with 12 foot ceilings. I am looking for a system that is just all around good (jack of all trades master of none) given the budget. I will not be doing any room treatments, etc (not worth the marginal benefit and I am not looking for perfection here). The system will be used daily for TV and for music. As far as genres, I really like everything, but skew towards alternative/indie/pop/rock. I am guessing I will want a sub, but I have no idea and am flexible. I was thinking two loudspeakers, but I am flexible.

FWIW, I don't really believe in expensive cables and think it is a waste of the budget at this price point, but I am open to other opinions. I am open to buying used equipment (I actually prefer used equipment--I believe quality audio equipment should last forever). Overall goal is simplicity + all around good. 

tas2200

mofojo gives good advice. Buy used. That has worked really well for me. 

does the budget include a Turntable, CD, streamer or ?…..

I am a robot that seeks to understand requirements…first…

Buy used for sure. Your money will go much further. I have well a couple different systems but the one that is stupid good for the money would be 10.5k msrp. I have 2k into it. If I were to spend 10 k I can’t imagine what it could be. Be patient and buy smart. If your goal is to buy new disregard my post.

Post removed 

Look into active speakers. Dali Calisto 6c, Dynaudio Focus XD, Q Acoustics,  etc..

I agree with the statement above pick your loudspeakers first. Maybe a pair of Klipsch Cornwall IV’s. And a Schiit Ragnarok integrated amp.

https://www.schiit.com/products/ragnarok-1

/\ this!

 

 Speakers, then other stuff and average cabling!

 Keep above 250-300WPC for headroom, or you will clip the amp. 
 

 We learned long ago, using many amps, those 2W things while nice, you can’t beat 300WPC RMS!

 

 Don’t care what anyone says, power!”

 

Pick your loudspeakers first then you'll know what monies you have left over for other stuff. Don't discount good cables, a 10 K system can definitely benefit using decent cables.