$50k - $80k Budget…Opinions please.

I think you should listen to the new SIM audio north collection even the smaller amp is a game changer.

I think you should listen to the new SIM audio north collection even the smaller amp is a game changer.

I think you should listen to the new SIM audio north collection even the smaller amp is a game changer.

overthemoon,

just for your knowledge I spoke to Sim audio and they told me that the 761 amplifier is far superior to the 860a V2, and I believe in the US it retails for 14 to 15,000, I'm going to be upgrading my w-8 to the 861 that thing is a beast.

OK, I’ll play. I love spending other people’s money!

I’ll assume your listening room is already sorted out.

You haven’t mentioned any sources - streaming, vinyl, CD/SACD, so I’ve chosen to focus on CD/SACD. You’ll notice that I’ve stuck with one company (except for the digital source). I’m a big believer in component compatibility (i.e. components that have been ‘voiced’, or designed, to work with one another). Plus, you have much more room to negotiate (price) when buying a complete system from a single company.

So, here’s my list:

Speakers: Coincident Reference Extreme II new - $30,000, used - virtually unobtanium

Amplifier: Coincident 211PP Dragon MK. II new - $11,000, used ~$6,000

Linestage: Coincident 300B Statement new - $7,000, used - $5,000

Digital Source: Esoteric UX-1 (Modified by APL HiFi NWO) used only - $7,000

IC cables: Teo Audio GC Ultra Balanced (2 pairs) new - $5,000

So, total budget comes in around $60,000 (buying mostly new). I haven’t recommended speaker wire or power cabling but you have enough left over in your budget for your favourite flavours (e.g. Shunyata, Nordost, Cardas, Duelund, etc.).

Good luck in your search!