New sound system, $5000 max- what a would you do?


Suppose a friend, not previously into audio, but enjoys music, finally said to you that he (and I will assume this is a he) finally understands what a good sound system can do and tells you he wants a great system, but $5,000 is the limit. You get to put it together. What do you choose? Your friend has tons of CDs so you need a cd spinner

Here's my $5,000 system (all new, based on list price)

Hegel H80 integrated amp/dac
Cambridge Audio CXC disc transport
Magneplanar .7 speakers
Analysis Plus Oval 12 speaker cables
Blue Jeans spdif cable

still have lots of $ left for more music. And tell your friend to use his Mac for downloaded music too. 

128x128zavato
Zavato,

Are those the power cords that retail for 7.00 and sold thru electronic parts online?
Since when are the Harbeth's 3000.00? I thought that they are retailing closer to 4000.00.
I would tell my friend to go to hell with this idea of me assembling a cheapo system for him.

I would go with something from Morrow Audio for cables. The Analysis Plus Oval 12 speaker cables are some of the most bass heavy, colored cables, I have listened to. Kimber Kable or Audio Quest would work as well.  Also, I would make sure the Hegal is up to driving the Maggies, don't they dip pretty low in ohms?


Matt M