First System- need advice

I would definitely, audition Linn Majik, Tukan speakers.(it can't get any more "Minimalist" than that)Mimik CD player. They fit like "hand in glove" together. You can constantly upgrade your system, and if not,just spend $$ on music. Read Robert Harley/ Stereophile recomended components Integrated Amp. Class B. Also check feedbacks from the acctual owners of this components(or any) in "audioreview.com". I own Majik, Tukans, just ordered Karik cd player, and Systemdek T-table. I believe, if you try them you'll like what you hear. Check the market pages in the A-Gon, you will find it All. Good Luck!

I agree with the above recommendation that you listen to the Linn Majik, Tukans and Karik cd player. While this combo is a little over your budget, you might be able to buy some of the equipment used. In any case, it sounds very good.

Here is a very unconventional suggestion: Paradigm Active/20 speakers ($1600). An excellent small speaker with very powerful (135W bass + 50W treble) power amps and active crossovers built-in. Add a decent cd-player and a cheap QED volume pot (if the player has no variable volume) and you are in business. CDs to look for are from Marantz, Rotel, Pioneer in the $500 - $800 bracket. Later you can budget for a proper preamplifier and the rest of your sources and add a Paradigm Servo 15 subwoofer.

If you don't mind used equipment I would recommend Spica Angelus, Vandersteen 1c, Epos 12, Thiel 1.2 or SM?? maggies($500-700). An Exposure XX Line level amp ($600). The rest on a CD player maybe a Meridian 508.20. You can also find used Conrad Johnson tube gear at good used prices.