Integrated Amp and Speakers for a teenager?


Hi every one,

After working part-time I was able to put $900 togheter for my first audio system. So, as you can see my budget is very limited. I am lucky enough though to already have a CD, DVD-Audio player and tuner.

But I don't know to what to look for. I know instead how I will use the system: it will be for playing piano (keyboards), and for listening to radio, DVD-Audio and CD's. My favorite music is classical and from time to time jazz (experimental).

I am leaving in a small apartment in a building so I am not interested in loud sound. Even by contrary - I do enjoy listening to low levels.

What I would prefer - a NATURAL sound, as analytical and detailed as posible for this money.

So, which integrated ampifier paired with which speakers?
And because I am young and these money matter for me - I need something that will be as reliable as posible and will serve for the next 5 years (at least)

Thank you a lot
rmihai9ad0
Although perhaps a little above your budget, I recently purchased a "second" system consisting of the Cambridge Audio Azur 640A integrated amp, 640C CD player, and Focal JMlab 706S bookshelf speakers plus stands. I am very impressed at this system for ~ 1500. You could always downgrade to the 540A and 540C to limit your budget.
I don't believe you should spend more than $150-200 used for your int. amp. On Audiogon, NAD 312 $150 obo. On E-bay, a couple of Rotel RA-820's are for sale. Absolutely nothing wrong w/ older electronics. They were build very well and sound IMO excellent. I'm really impressed by Sony amps/rec. of the early 80's. But, finding the right combination to work in your ROOM and to your tastes is very difficult! It's quite a challenge. If you were to buy new, the NAD C320 ($320) seems like quite a bargain, which would have good resale value. This would leave you $500+ for spks. Good Luck!
How about something a little different. A used Jolida 102B tubed integrated (around $400). Since this is only 20W, you'd need some efficient speakers. The Epos ELS3 might be a good choice. I believe a tubes integrated would meld quite nicely with your classical/jazz tastes.
I purchased a pair of Vandersteen 1Bs for $200 and a 40 wpc NAD integrated for $170 from Audiogon. Together with a garden variety Philips CD player, the musical presentation is truly exemplary. Classical and jazz in particular.
I second what a couple of other peolpe are telling you get a pair of VANDERSTEEN 1B,S OR 1C,S. I own 1B,s they are great sounding. I am thinking of upgrading to 2CE signatures but the 1B,s are a great sounding speakers for very little money you can't beat them with any other speaker in that price range
Terry