Since we are on audiogon, I'll stick to audio words of wisdom (IMHO).
1. Purchase the best used $1000-2000 SS midrange amplifier you can find >200wpc doubling into 4 ohms(ARAGON, PROCEED, B&K, ADCOM, even the top of the line ROTEL or ARCAM units are ok starter amps).
2. Purchase a $700-3000 preamplifier that you like with a phono stage if it is available. This is the biggest commitment and a big fork in the road. Make certain you can live with your decision if you choose tubes because it will color your eventual selection of speakers.
3. Audition a variety of speakers with similar components to those selected in #1 and #2 above over about a 6 month period of time. Borrow from friends or dealer if they will permit so you can live with them for a while. Purchase the speakers you love, rather than what you think you can afford. Use the VISA or beg borrow and hock other valueables to get what you like and will love over the long haul. This could be really expensive but it could also be not so expensive. It really depends on what you like. Thiel 22's can be purchased used for less than $1k.
4. Purchase a good Rotel or Arcam or NAD (or similar Japanese models) CD player which you will upgrade every five years or so as technology advances.
5. Purchase a $500-1000 turntable if you don't already own one with a good $300 medium output cartridge. Listen to older recordings and get some variety into your listening library.
This forms the basis for many years of listening pleasure and future component upgrades as time and money allow.
1. Purchase the best used $1000-2000 SS midrange amplifier you can find >200wpc doubling into 4 ohms(ARAGON, PROCEED, B&K, ADCOM, even the top of the line ROTEL or ARCAM units are ok starter amps).
2. Purchase a $700-3000 preamplifier that you like with a phono stage if it is available. This is the biggest commitment and a big fork in the road. Make certain you can live with your decision if you choose tubes because it will color your eventual selection of speakers.
3. Audition a variety of speakers with similar components to those selected in #1 and #2 above over about a 6 month period of time. Borrow from friends or dealer if they will permit so you can live with them for a while. Purchase the speakers you love, rather than what you think you can afford. Use the VISA or beg borrow and hock other valueables to get what you like and will love over the long haul. This could be really expensive but it could also be not so expensive. It really depends on what you like. Thiel 22's can be purchased used for less than $1k.
4. Purchase a good Rotel or Arcam or NAD (or similar Japanese models) CD player which you will upgrade every five years or so as technology advances.
5. Purchase a $500-1000 turntable if you don't already own one with a good $300 medium output cartridge. Listen to older recordings and get some variety into your listening library.
This forms the basis for many years of listening pleasure and future component upgrades as time and money allow.