I was trying a lot of stuff for a while. I still consider myself a relative newbie, but have finally settled on a rig that has made me very content. I have a smallish room (15x18), but it’s treated with sonex panels in critical areas. My speakers are ProAc 2.5,s driven by Audio Research Amps (LS-16 / 100.2), with a Resolution Audio CD-50 as the main source. I found that Synergistic’s Resolution Reference wire and interconnects works well with this, and I use balanced on the source and amps, with shotgun runs to the speakers. Last but not least is the essential PS Audio P300, which powers everything with some room to spare. Early on, I made some fundamental choices (like unobtrusive two way floorstanders & mixed tube and SS). I was also striving toward simplicity, and minimal gear. I have been quite happy with this systems ability to play at lower volume levels, and without having to spend megabucks, it has a very nice sense of delicacy and finesse