I agree with Labtec to a certain extent, noone is going to get it right with one upgraded component, no matter who you are, if you're starting out with some not so good stuff.
You're going to have to upgrade each piece, and possibly, such as is common with us less than wealthy types, you do it in stages, and save tons of cash by making careful purchases on the used market.
While I would love to attend a HiFi show myself, I don't think that there is any way around the learning curve/subsequent purchasing/selling/repurchasing of equipment while you "learn" what you like. I've had good equipment, with good synergy in several different incarnations, but my tastes have changed over the years. I buy and sell components and accessories based on what it will do when inserted into my system.
Here's where Labtec has a good point. Buying an entire system as one unit can be great. I don't think that any one manufacturer makes a total package that would suit me. But there are dealers out there that I've visited that can put together some really good systems at great prices. It's about having access to different lines of gear, and having the love to sit there and fiddle around and make some good music, in addition to answering the phones, etc. However, unless Meech can find a dealer near him that will extend credit (or borrow money for gear-I've done it) it will be difficult to make 1 large purchase.
I guess I still think that the best way is to find some people that you trust, that have some knowledge on the subject, and ask for advice. Also, it helps to know what you're looking for, as "better" system can mean lots of different things to different people.
I hope Meech hasn't thrown it all out the window, as I've been tempted to do at times.
You're going to have to upgrade each piece, and possibly, such as is common with us less than wealthy types, you do it in stages, and save tons of cash by making careful purchases on the used market.
While I would love to attend a HiFi show myself, I don't think that there is any way around the learning curve/subsequent purchasing/selling/repurchasing of equipment while you "learn" what you like. I've had good equipment, with good synergy in several different incarnations, but my tastes have changed over the years. I buy and sell components and accessories based on what it will do when inserted into my system.
Here's where Labtec has a good point. Buying an entire system as one unit can be great. I don't think that any one manufacturer makes a total package that would suit me. But there are dealers out there that I've visited that can put together some really good systems at great prices. It's about having access to different lines of gear, and having the love to sit there and fiddle around and make some good music, in addition to answering the phones, etc. However, unless Meech can find a dealer near him that will extend credit (or borrow money for gear-I've done it) it will be difficult to make 1 large purchase.
I guess I still think that the best way is to find some people that you trust, that have some knowledge on the subject, and ask for advice. Also, it helps to know what you're looking for, as "better" system can mean lots of different things to different people.
I hope Meech hasn't thrown it all out the window, as I've been tempted to do at times.