How do I choose a decent system?

Best of luck. It is fun. Just read these forums for a few weeks (or more)and learn.

gmc

I'd avoid a receiver, unless you must do HT.

KP

I agree with avoiding the receiver if possible. Get a nice integrated amplifier and a tuner if you want FM.

On a $2000 budget for a whole system consider ----

Cambridge Audio, NAD, or Rotel amplifiers (with phono stage);
B&W, NHT, or Paradigm speakers ----;
Music Hall MMF-2.1 turntable with cartridge; ----;
Cambridge Audio CD player ----;
Kimber, Nordost, Audioquest or MIT cables ----;
Used Onkyo Integra or NAD tuner.

Or since appearance is an issue, look at a truly nice all-in-one component system like the Linn Classik (plus speakers, etc, etc, above); and forget about the B&O where you are paying for looks only.

You can also look at some low end, or aging separates. A used threshold Pre amp with phono can be had for say $350 and while old they are built to last forever. Adcom sold a well regarded pre amp GFP 555 that was well regarded and should be had for the same price. Amps from people like Adcom can be had for similar amounts.

Speakers are always a challenge but good name brands can all be had at good prices - KEF, B&W, Vandersteen and others. You'll need to decide on aesthetic as well as full range issues.

I just bought a used Sony SACD 333ES CD changer for $350 and I think it is excellent. Turntables are probaly best had as a turnkey system at your price point, but a used Rega Planar 3 should be within reach. You will stretch your budget by going separates, but I think it is an option. I've heard good things about some of the other integrated amps that were mentioned too.

Most of all, have fun with it.

Phil

For $2000, I might consider:

California Audio Labs Tercet or Icon CD player ($300-$400 used)
Arcam FMJ A22 integrated amp ($1300 used)
PSB Image 4T ($350 used)

This should provide a decent starting point and stay within budget. Good luck!