I support most of the suggestions so far. Clearly it's a process starting back to front. But also, I think synergy is really putting together a system that gets the most out of each component. Yes, in the end you have to like it and we all have different preferences.
How about this. For me the most difficult 'find' is the speaker tweeter that appeals to me. Once I've found that, I then need to decide the 'amount' of bass my room can handle. Am I better off with a 2 way monitor or do I risk trying to get good bass response and deal with room resonances etc. Usually the speaker tweeter you like comes in a variety of speaker sizes.
Next, amp power choice is critical to drive the speaker properly. I usually look for 2x the rated speaker minimum. So 50-200w power handling needs a minimum of 100wpc.
Next, the pre/amp/integrated will tend to cost roughly what the speaker costs.
Listen to several and look for a tonal balance that appeals to you - some tend to be more forward, some more weighty etc.
Look for a neutral cables, the best you can afford (speaker and power).
You've got synergy. The front end is more flexible, just make sure to save as much as you can for the front end. It's really important, but not, in my opinion a critical part of the synergy.
How about this. For me the most difficult 'find' is the speaker tweeter that appeals to me. Once I've found that, I then need to decide the 'amount' of bass my room can handle. Am I better off with a 2 way monitor or do I risk trying to get good bass response and deal with room resonances etc. Usually the speaker tweeter you like comes in a variety of speaker sizes.
Next, amp power choice is critical to drive the speaker properly. I usually look for 2x the rated speaker minimum. So 50-200w power handling needs a minimum of 100wpc.
Next, the pre/amp/integrated will tend to cost roughly what the speaker costs.
Listen to several and look for a tonal balance that appeals to you - some tend to be more forward, some more weighty etc.
Look for a neutral cables, the best you can afford (speaker and power).
You've got synergy. The front end is more flexible, just make sure to save as much as you can for the front end. It's really important, but not, in my opinion a critical part of the synergy.