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Building the Best "Used" Budget System under $3000

I've been reading several threads on all best equipment (most of it out of my price range). I'm convinced, for a music lover with a novice ear, that an affordable quality system can be assembled from "pre-owned" equipment. So, if you were building a COMPLETE system from the ground up for your best friend who was just getting started and only had a maximum of $3000 to spend, what would you recommend. This system is for the HiFi music lover only (no Home Theather) and should includes analog and CD. An expert would also consider the future need to upgrade once the "bug" takes over.
whyt_rabbit
whyt_rabbit OP
20 posts
 
Thanks everyone for the advice. A lot of differing opinions. The question originally came from a Rolling Stone Article I read a year back on creating an entry level Audiophile system for under $2000. I can't remember all the components but I think this system had the following:

Rega 300 TT
HH Scott 299c Tube amp
Sony CD player maybe??
Used LS3/5A Speakers
Some tuner???

Most of the stuff was purchased off ebay and it really got me started thinking about upgrades. I'm considering the Carver - Sunfire Sig. Series Amp (300WPC) and some B&W CDM9NT speakers. I already have a Rega 300 and I'm looking for the Ah Njoe TjoeB 4000 CD. I'll probably use some of the advice hear on cables and turn it up!!

If anyone has any comments on the Carver I'd appreciated it. I can't find any comments on it on this site.
trelja
3,226 posts
 
The Sunfire is a nice amplifier. I would not hesitate going with it. Personally, I would still opt for the magic of the Jolida and the Totems, but a solid state amp may offer more long term flexibility when it comes to loudspeakers. The Carver will be able to put out quite a lot of power.

GOOD LUCK!
eldragon
707 posts
 
Pass Aleph 3 $900
AES-a3 pre $350
Sony SC555 SACD $500
Triangle Zerius $700
Discovery 123 8' $120
Kimber PBJ 2x$50

Total: $2670

Money to spare (or for different source), and components easily re-sold!
whyt_rabbit OP
20 posts
 
OK...after a little research on this site and listening at the local Hi-fi, I've come up with the following:

Carver Sig. Sunfire Amp (300wpc) $800
B&W 805s with Stands $1700
Rega P3 2000 with Grado Blue $500
Ahjoeb Tjoeb CD 4000 $450
Cables etc.. $150 = $3600

A little over the limit but, hey I'm going to vegas this weekend so, come on lucky 7....If I feel the bass isn't quite their for this set up, I'll purchase a powered sub.
hacksawmcgraw
2 posts
 
Pick up a used pair of Totem Model 1 speackers (~1000), and a used Golden Tube Audio or C-J tube preamp (~600). A used Bryston 3b-ST amplifier (~800) A clearaudio turntable (600) and whoops - i ran out of money and don't have a digital front end yet. Add a Sub later.
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