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Best upgradable system components for under $6K

Hello All,

I plan on upgrading my system with components that I can live with in the short term and the long term (hopefully so I don't have to keep upgrading components as I upgrade my speakers).

I currently have an NAD 356BEE integrated and while it is entry level I must admit it sounds very nice. My room is 14'8" by 20'4" and I currently have a pair of Legacy Classics (not Classic HD). My goal is to make my next big purchase on components in the $6k or less range but I would like to make it a once and for all purchase. In other words I'm looking for something I can live with for 15-20 years without worrying about upgrading.

I would prefer to stay solid state and don't mind having an integrated or pairing separates. New or used also doesn't matter as long as it is a great bang for the bucks. My ultimate goal is to one day be driving a pair of Acoustic Zen Crescendo or Vandersteen Quattro speakers. A 200wpc + consideration would be preferred but I’m flexible on that too lol.

Finally my music selection is a bit diverse. I like jazz, soft rock and new age. Some of my favorites are Dave Matthews, John Mayer, the Wallflowers and John Tesh. I value your opinions highly and would love the community's input on the best component upgrades for my $6k budget.
xerotrace
illuminator
59 posts
 
Check this out: http://app.audiogon.com/listings/solid-state-simaudio-moon-600i-stereo-integrated-amplifier-2015-03-23-integrateds-07641-haworth-nj

I bought one at the beginning of the year and it's the best I've had in my system.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"My ultimate goal is to one day be driving a pair of Acoustic Zen Crescendo or Vandersteen Quattro speakers. A 200wpc + consideration would be preferred but I’m flexible on that too lol."

If you want to do this right, you should plan the system out now, even if you can't afford everything all at once. The Vandersteen as a possible choice caught my eye because its my favorite speaker and I have some experience with them. For solid state, I feel Ayre is the best match for Vandersteen. You may want to consider an Ayre V-5, and then maybe a K-5 preamp after that. But just getting a V-5 now and using your NAD as a preamp, you won't recognize your system. You'll think you got new speakers, as well. That's how much of a difference it will make. But you should do some listening first, to see if you like the combo.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I'd recommend you try this LSA Statement Integrated amp. Only 150 wpc, and it does have two tubes in it, but basically SS, and would be very tough to beat in this price range.

I have no relation with the seller.
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