Amp Speaker $1200--no plastic boxes
A friend asked for my advice setting up a PC based audio system. Looking for truly high end, nearfield sound. Ultimately, he will improve his CDP and soundcard along with other components. For now, he has a $1200 budget and wants a tube amp and speakers to run off his existing soundcard. As a gamer, he wants a sub. Will buy used to stretch the budget.
I am thinking of the smallest Proacs or similar, and a tube integrated.
What have you heard, and what do you like?