better ears than budget, so i would like to think


I am saving for a better audio system having recently been exposed to a very good system, I can hear how much mine is lacking. Here's what I'm working with:

AR11
Technics "el crapo" SA-AX540
Sony "el crapo maximo" CDP-CX53
Some sort of monster cable

What amp/ preamp / integrated would be a good mid-fi starter under $1000?

Nick
adnoctum
If you can stretch that budget just a bit, consider a Naim Nait integrated, if you have a chance to audition one. For my own selection process, it proved itself a giant killer.
A used Naim Nait is within his budget. Naim Nait or Creek 5350SE.

That would be my short-list.