Building analog setup-your expertise isappreciated

If I was just starting out with limited experience in a new format (other than doing research), I'd let a reputable dealer do the work instead of mixing/matching unfamiliar brands. I'd tell the dealer I had $3500-4000 to spend first. Listen to the system. If you like it, great. If it needs something else, tell the dealer you can go another $500. Listen for improvements. Offer small financial increases until you're satisfied. You'll probably get out way under $8000 along with dealer support, possible trade-in upgrade options and rapport. Good luck.

Find a dealer that you trust. A space such as this will have as many opinions as there are snowflakes, each offered with the authority of a person who likes what he has. Only you know what you want.

Funny example: I have a friend with really big ears, that jut out from his head. His system is reserved to the point of being subliminal, because of how music hits his ear (to get a sense of it, cup your hands behind your ears while listening to music. That's him.) People need different things.

In general, if the rest of the system is good, speakers aren't all that crucial. So the bulk of my money would be going toward the turntable/cartridge combo. Not sure what you mean by "power," but if it's line conditioning stuff, it might be worth foregoing that for now, to get the best quality front end that you could. If you absolutely believe in it, save it for later as funds permit, take that kilobuck and put it toward the turntable/cartridge.

Without knowing what your listening tastes are and what kind of sound you like, it's impossible for anyone to make real recommendations. But this sonic omnivore (from Brahms to black metal) found his exit point with a Thorens 2030 turntable, Grado Reference Sonata cartridge and Grado PH1 phono stage. Thanks to the turntable being on closeout at Audio Advisor, I got it all done for $3k, and it's pretty spectacular. And also very pretty, visually.

Good luck in the quest but start at a good dealer, where you can hear things, and figure out what you like and want to hear.

Keep on Truckin Good Luck DUDE.

Thanks for the feedback, it is much appreciated. I'm paying a visit to a dealer this afternoon - and bringing along my Agalloch and some Penderecki. When I'm less of a noob and get the upgrade bug in a year or two, I'll try to spread my upgrade funds around audiogon.

thanks all!