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Need Help Starting from Scratch

Hi Everyone,
I've been reading as much as I can and thought I could use more input from people in which direction to head and less of this is better than that. I have no components at the moment other than my PC which outputs digital. I think I might need a DAC.

I have a small living room in my apartment which will be my primary listening area. It's about 12x12. I'm looking for a 2 channel setup. This will be just for music. My budget is 1000 to tops of 2000(if it really gets me that much more. Used/old is great). I don't know what route to go(integrated amp--> speakers vs pre-amp to amp to speakers). I'm by no means an audiophile but I really enjoy music and my current logitech 5.1 speakers aren't cutting it. I listen to mostly rock of sorts and do love finding a good female vocal.

I guess where i'm lost also is what components I really need. I.e. computer outputs digital so I hook that up to a DAC to pre-amp to amp to speakers? I also don't understand how I can make sure every component will work together. Would a receiver make it that much easier? I'm concerned about the sound of a receiver for music. Thoughts/comments are much appreciated. Thanks
stephenhdmrs
mceljo
1,357 posts
 
Here's my devils advocate question relating to the active Klipsch speakers. Your relying on Klipsch to not only build a quality speaker, but a quality amplifier. Would you consider purchasing a Klipsch amplifier for passive speakers? I don't know if Klipsch even makes amplifier, but I don't remember anyone ever recommending one on the forum. Obviously, the sale price is a significant factor, but considering retail pricing shouldn't one expect a better sound out of a $1,500 pair of speakers and a $1000 amplifier?
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zanon
114 posts
 
Amp on Decco2 or iDecco (or even Nova) is not bad. More importantly, it works well with DAC, pre-amp, and "smooth" vs "sharp" filter. You do not have a big room, you will probably have enough power. And you do not need to worry about testing components together.

And if you want to upgrade to better amp in future, you can do that with peachtree product. It is MUCH better than receiver (I know I did head to head test a few week ago) and excellent support for computer source.

Output digital from computer to Decco, then wire to passive speaker.
summitav
163 posts
 
Those klipsch speakers are a complete steal. It may make me change my plans and go with active speakers.

I am a KLIPSCH dealer and would suggest you tread lightly on those active speakers you have been pointed to.

They "are not" close to some of the other KLIPSCH models for 2 channel sound, and the "too good to be true" pricing is just that unless you just need some speakers for a Mid Fi Home theater.

Look at other models or even other brands, but unless you have actually heard these and liked them, they are not a good "starter" speaker for a budding audiophile. IMHO
manoterror
216 posts
 
Interesting...I've heard nothing but good things about them, and the reviews from owners are good. What is it that isn't good about them? I am looking at them for my winter system, running off a Roth MC4 iPod dock, or an iDecco. Have you had a chance to audition them?

"Too good to be true" pricing doesn't mean bad quality in this economy. I've bought several models of Mirage speakers from Vanns, including the OMD-28s, OMD-15, and OMD-5, and they are amazing speakers...and what I consider to be the best buy in audio currently. A lot of places are closing and these are surplus that is high quality at amazing prices.

Another path to take is the new model from ZU, "the Omen". On sale til Friday for a grand, and all it needs is a few watts. This allows you to get something now and upgrade in the future to bigger amps, etc. Just another idea. :-)
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