Starting over

We need a few details: Room size, how loud do you like, do you need cd or tuner. Are you looking for just an integrated and speakers? Do you want vintage or new? I've got a Mac 1700 that is awesome with a pair of definitive techs on here and you will still have cash left for a nice cd?

The shanling is way too weak for anything but the most efficient speakers. Going with any of the Music Halls will get a lot more power and you can get a class A amp which will get you a lot of warmth. I've seen them used for $500-700. 50 watts will drive most speakers.

Hifisoundguy: Are you new hear? You know you're not allowed to use the B__e word on Audiogon?

Hmmm, spend 1000 on a radio, tweak it and still only get a glorified boom box with tiny speakers. For the same money, I can get a pre-amp, amp and speakers on audiogon that simply are not in the same league...