2. analog
  3. 131223-99020

My jazz collection told me to get a *real* system

So I’m determined to put together my first serious analog system, having subsisted on entry-level NAD TT, integrated and phono amp for over 10 years. My tastes are very eclectic, but I’ve put together a nice jazz collection and that’s what’s really crying out. I’m looking at a budget of about $8K over the next 12-18 months. Yeah, that’s the trick: This ain’t gonna happen over night. But I’m willing to be patient with imbalances in my system as long as I’m headed in the right direction. And I’d rather go the route of buying the gear I really want for the long term rather than stop gaps and labor intensive upgrade paths etc. My life just doesn’t have room for that.

N.B.: Looking to stay SS, likely integrated+phono preamp configuration. Really just talking about the table, cart, and amplification ... speakers and ICs are OK for now.

Questions:
1) How would you divvy up the dough?
2) In what order would you buy the components?
3) Top 3 recommendations within each component category?
4) Other crucial considerations?

Appreciate the wisdom!
128x128jazztherapist
pratorious
126 posts
 
Jazztherapist-

I live in SF and I think it would be worth your time to visit this brick & mortar http://www.toneofmusic.com in Noe Valley. 

Just tell the owner, Tim, exactly what you said here. He is a good resource for matching components and quality and value. He has a listening room with a nice selection of Blue Note records.

Its a small one man operation so you should confirm he will be open before taking the drive. It would be well worth your while.
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jazztherapist's avatar
jazztherapist OP
21 posts
 
Totally open to used, pryso!

But will you look only at new or can used be considered as well?

jazztherapist's avatar
jazztherapist OP
21 posts
 
Pratorius, that's a super helpful recommendation. Thanks!

Jazztherapist-

I live in SF and I think it would be worth your time to visit this brick & mortar http://www.toneofmusic.com in Noe Valley. 
jazztherapist's avatar
jazztherapist OP
21 posts
 
So let me nuance this a bit further. Let's say I hold off on the big purchases and throw down the $8K all at once in another 18-24 months. Seems like working with one dealer who can set me up, and do it synergistically, might make more sense. What would be a pleasing cartridge upgrade to my Shure M97xe to keep me enthusiastic? You know, something modest ($200-$400). 
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