Looking to build a system for under $5k

You have selected speakers, now focus on an integrated amplifier that plays well with them. I would suggest that you focus on finding a quality line level integrated amp and a used external DAC.  A DAC with the appropriate inputs can serve for CD playback with a transport and also for streaming via computer or other device. As an example, Cambridge Audio makes a CD transport that retails for $500 (though I hear sells for less) which could be mated to a high quality used DAC that would sell under $1000, leaving you $2000+ for an integrated amplifier and cables.  (finding a DAC for $500 would allow funds for the Belles). 

In addition to Belles, other integrated amps that would drive the Vandys are provided by NAD, Rouge Audio, Parasound, Arcam, Hagel, Vincent, and several others.  Hopefully other will ad to this list.

If you want a integrated amplifier that has it all check out the Parasound Halo. A review was published by Stereophile November 2015 and can be found online.  Line level, digital, phono, minijack inputs are some of it's features.

I just went to the Audio Connections web site. Why not go back and ask to listen to the Vandys as driven by the Rouge Sphinx and Cronus, Nad 356BEE and C375, Hegel 80, in addition to the Belles?

The Rouge Sphinx does not stream.  The NAD 356 does have a dac but requires a computer hookup. the Hegel does but requires a computer running dlna software all of these options may be more than a beginning streaming person wants.

You may want to check out a Naim uniqute which sounds fantastic and has a dac and streamer built in and has a fantastic app floor samples are around $2k

Or a Cambridge Stream Magic which offers a great app, great dac, combined with a Cambridge integrated which would make an idea match for the Vandys or the new Nad C388 with blue sound card. 

We have both the Nad, Cambridge products and the Naim on display so maybe one of those pieces would work for you. 

If your heart is set on the Vandys then that is the speaker you should get. 

Sorry I missed you. 

Troy 
Audio Doctor
www.audiodoctor.com 877 428 2873

If you liked the synergy of the Belles with the Vandy’s, then you’re making a severe mistake going away from it just to get an internal DAC (and probably a cheap one at that)

I would do the Belles which you know matches beautifully to the Vandys and then do an Oppo Sonica DAC which is a very simple and easy to use way to get Tidal into the Belles for not a lot of money.......any internal solution will be very compromised in one area or another......

As to phono, don’t settle for an integrated solution.......there are so many great used phono stages on GON that have a very small form factor......try for a Lehmann Cube or a PS Audio.....it all depends on your cartridge.....but you can do that when the time comes......for now I’d say go with the Integrated that you KNOW has synergy with the Vandersteens and go with something you know has an excellent DAC to get Tidal into the Belles......add a companion Oppo disc spinner later......

Another great option at less cost would be the Auralic Aries Mini streamer.......which includes a  DAC and a great app......It is available new for 499.....