2. amps-preamps
  3. 1024701627

Return to Audio: What Products to Consider?

Hi, I'm getting back into audio and I'm curious what amplification products this forum would recommend. For criteria, here's what I would list; very good sound (of course), warm rather than analytical, but not muddy or bright, of good, long-lasting quality, from a manufacturer with integrity, costing a few grand or less (I don't always equate quality with price), to be used with classical, folk, world, bluegrass, jazz, electronica music. Mostly low-level listening, with some higher volume (those first few watts should really count) with CD source. I want something to be proud of for me, not for my ego. I want to escape into the music, not hear the equipment. What would you recommend here? Thank you!
andrewb450
kalan
185 posts
 
What about the speakers? Don't we need to know what sort of speakers this guy is going to try to drive first before we can carry on with a slew of amp recommendations?
hbarrel's avatar
hbarrel
342 posts
 
Have you set a budget?
If so how much?
Cables and innerconnectors (power cords maybe also) need to considered. Depending on the system I'd recommend at least trying to figure out a minimum wiring budget right from the get go.
Is it unreasonable to say a minimum of $500 for a beginning set of cables and innerconnects?
gold001
30 posts
 

Should you choose the speakers first?

I belive that when you're building a system you first need to get a quality source. Put a large chunk of your budget there. Then move on to a good solid amp. If you've puchased the best sounding source and amp you can afford it's possible to use a pair of well designed, but inexpensive speakers. This type of system should be one based on expensive speakers with a lesser source and amp.

-patrick
unsound
7,327 posts
 
With all due respect to Gold001, I would suggest the opposite. Decide where you are going to be when listening. In another words, your room and listening postions should be considered first. As speaker to room interaction is probably the most variable consideration, consider speakers second. As speakers have particular needs, consider amps third. Consider preamps fourth. Sources fifth. Cables last.
hbarrel's avatar
hbarrel
342 posts
 
First and foremost... Budget first. (And don't forget about cables in the budget. Many beginners do.)
Room size / configuration second. The speakers should be appropriate to the room.
But the source components are the most important purchase!
Source components will sound good in any room. If they don't they are junk.
Likewise good speakers are good speakers. (What sounds good to you?)
I agree the cables are the least important but as stated earlier make sure they are part of the budget.
If you are married ascetics can be important when it comes to having your partner as a willing participant in the world of musical entertainment.
Is an equipment stand in the budget?
More to discover