Starting out Audiophile separates?

Congrats on your HEA journey! Don't let any setbacks discourage you, remember it's about the music. If you like a variety of music the Magnepan MMG is your best starting point. The best(sounding) extreme budget amp(I know) is the NAD S300. There not that easy to find but with some patience a near mint(make sure it's spec) unit can be had for <$750. The Denon CX3 series should be easier to find, don't let the micro size fool you these are serious entry level components. The DCD-CX3 is the strongest of the 2 units, no problem with matching the CX3 with the Denon. With cables buy the best Signal Cables, these will survive several future upgrades.

Chanceshaw-You can do better then Emotiva for less money! As for synergy Magnepan speakers seem to work well with Class D amplifiers(Denon DRA-CX3) maybe it's the high damping factor? With the NAD S300 it sounded great with various speakers-Linn/ML/Vandersteen and VA, so why not Magnepan? Another option I missed(if the MMG is too large) is the complete Denon CX3 Series including the CX303 speakers. This is the best complete budget system(I know) that offers very good sound and build quality. Add quality speaker stands and the best Signal Cable(Silver Resolution) and you will get many years of enjoyment!