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Newbie with some turntable, cable, pre-amp, and speaker questions.

I am very new to "higher end" audio equipment and I have a few questions for the professionals. I thought I bought a decent used system until I saw a pair of $25k speaker for sale on one of the pages here. By no means did I think I purchased anything "amazing" but those speakers were certainly a reality check! lol :) Wood cones?....wow!

I’ve always wanted a nice sound system for my house, nothing crazy, but something I can play pretty loud and not distort the speakers.
I ended up buying a used H/K AVR 7300 and some Polk LSi 15s, Center, and a RSW 400. Paid $675 for the lot and I’m pretty happy with what I got.
I definitely need to complete the surround and would like to find at least a set of F/X’s and possibly 7’s to finish it off.

This system is probably substandard to most, but for a newbie with my 1st decent sound system...I am absolutely elated with the sound I am getting out of what I have. I’m not sure I want to even listen to a very high end system as I’d like to enjoy what I can actually afford!

I have a few questions about some items I received with the lot and some accessries I am looking for.
I would like to add a turntable to the system, and would like to get some opinions on H/K models that would be best to match up with what I have. I don’t need anything super high end, but don’t mind keeping my eye out for the best possible one to grab either. I’ve also been told I’ll need a pre-amp if I want to add a TT...not sure why, but if this is accurate, I’ll need some advice there as well.
Also, the system came with Monster cables but the ends are cracked and are now useless. Does anyone know if they honor their LT Warranty to 2nd owners?

Finally, if anyone has a pair of LSi F/X’s...I am looking to buy a pair immediately. I’m located in North Western NJ.
Thank you all in advance for any info you can pass along. It is much appreciated.
jomat77
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
Why bother with Home Theater - unless you are planning to add a large screen TV?  Two-channel is superior and better sounding for music only! And forget about a TT - today's digital sources and playback are superior to any analog system! 
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
Before wasting anymore money I suggest buying some high-quality used vintage components. As an example, this is what I purchased used over the last two years: David Hafler 101 preamp and DH200 amp ($300). DCM Time Windows 1A ($219). These make a KILLER sounding combination! Add a good used CD player or streamer and you would have the basis of a fine stereo system! 
jomat77 OP
4 posts
 
Thank you for the response.
What about speakers for that particular setup you mentioned? I will certainly keep my eyes out for those components and perhaps start to build a "music only" setup.

That said, I'm not at all unhappy with the H/K receiver for my HTS, so I don't mind simply adding to that at this point.
I currently do have it hooked up to the TV and I do plan on getting a much nicer DVD player as opposed to just a CD unit.
I also have a laptop connected for streaming as well. 
I enjoy listening to vinyl, so a TT is a must for me. That's just a personal preference.

Thank you again for the feedback.
mesch
3,476 posts
 
So basically your are looking for speakers to finish your 7.1 surround system, and wishing to add a TT as an alternate source.

Given you are happy with the system as is, continue to look for those speakers that match well with the L,R and center ones you have. 

Regarding setting up your vinyl source, you likely need a phonostage (pre-preamp) as most AVR lack one internally. What is your budget for this?
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