Schiit Audio. would be another good place to look.
Saga ss preamp($299) and Vidar amp ($699) brings you to $1000 that leaves $500 for speakers, cables.
not hard to find good speakers used for that. or new for that mater.
I would suggest loading your CD's on a computer and add an inexpensive DAC later (like the Schiit modi ($99) or Audioquest black or similar). he could also go for one of the above mentioned CD players.
Also for an entry level system don't worry to much about expensive cables, power cords and room treatment, that can come later. focus on speakers amp and source for now. Really you can get good cables from many places that are not expensive. anti cables for example. Or roll your own by buying cable from a place like Parts connexion.
Vintage as some have mentioned is another worthwhile route.
Saga ss preamp($299) and Vidar amp ($699) brings you to $1000 that leaves $500 for speakers, cables.
not hard to find good speakers used for that. or new for that mater.
I would suggest loading your CD's on a computer and add an inexpensive DAC later (like the Schiit modi ($99) or Audioquest black or similar). he could also go for one of the above mentioned CD players.
Also for an entry level system don't worry to much about expensive cables, power cords and room treatment, that can come later. focus on speakers amp and source for now. Really you can get good cables from many places that are not expensive. anti cables for example. Or roll your own by buying cable from a place like Parts connexion.
Vintage as some have mentioned is another worthwhile route.