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What are the best entry level integrated amps and speakers?

My daughter just got a new place and wants to upgrade her Best Buy based stereo system.  She is only interested in two channel stereo (good for her).  I told her if you're willing to get used equipment of high quality you'll get a better system like I did (Krell, Ayre, Revel).  We are looking for an integrated amp and speakers.  The amp should put out 75-100 watts.  She has enough room for floor standing speakers or something smaller.  So far I have researched NAD and Outlaw for amps and PSB for speakers.  What would you recommend?  I think the budget will be $1,000-1,500.

 Thanks for your input.

128x128pipebro
chrisr's avatar
chrisr
543 posts
 
+1 on Wharfedale Denton.... great look AND smooth easy sound. 
That leaves $1.1K for integrated...
why not Schiit Pre SAGA plus amp VIDAR?  compact 9inch wide, looks good too and powerful to bring the best out of the denton.

Stay away from NAD unless you want to buy a new amp next year. Serious qc issues. It will sound great then let you down.
Agree with that... NAD sounds great, but it is a gamble on reliability.
bstbomber's avatar
bstbomber
73 posts
 
Many choices in the used market.
ADS Speakers and a Yamaha receiver is a match i always found great.
NAD amplifiers are also great.
buds
34 posts
 
https://sacramento.craigslist.org/ele/d/vincent-sv-500-integrated/6578180074.html  
Can't recommend this amp high enough. If my daughter was in the need, she'd be getting it.
chrshanl37
835 posts
 
Another idea would be a set of active speakers like the Airpulse Model 1’s by Phil Jones ($999) which would give you enough left over for a decent set of stands or the previously recommended Kef ls-50 wireless speakers but you would have to get very lucky to find a used pair within your budget.

I also like the Vincent recommendation, I have owned the SV 237 and it was a solid performer. 
sbrownnw
700 posts
 
I would recommend demoing as much equipment as possible.  This may require establishing a good relationship with one or more audio shops in the area or dealing with equipment ordered online with a trial period.  I will +1 the Rega recommendation, especially if she wants to get into vinyl down the road.  Rega is quite well represented here in the states.
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