Help in putting together my system with used equipment on Audiogon and eBay.


I’m looking for the best bang for the buck. What equipment can I find that would make the best system for my budget ($8000)? I'm starting out with:

Pass Labs X1 Preamp, my rock to start with. I got it for $2500 This is where you can help me the most. Let me know your best match for this pre-amp, or the ones you have found to be the best you have heard!

Bryston 4B SST amp for about $1700. It’s been my experience that more power wakes up a speaker and pins it’s ears back. At 300wpc and the reviews on this amp I picked it, but just to start. I really need some experienced people to give me recommendations for the amp, or if the Bryston is a winner. I can sell this for a better amp.

Do I need a DAC?

Phono. I’ve realized that might be a big reason why people go to separates isn’t it? I’d like to hear some comments on this. If you have separates and no phono, what do you use? Stream music? CD’s?

CD player? I do have a lot of CD’s. With separates, it’s either phono, cd, or streaming correct?

I’m not really a phono guy, but I know which albums I would buy so it is an option. I wouldn’t know a good phono if you hit me with it. Please recommend a few.

I’m leaning toward B&W speakers just because of their reputation. I may spend up to 5k on a good pair of speakers, but I want them to be used and costing much more when bought new. I know how to spot a good deal and not buy speakers on their death bed (from reputable sellers), but I need your recommendations too. You all have heard more speakers than I ever have and will.

**I’m going to check this post often and answer any questions and write down your recommendations.
I WANT TO THANK YOU ALL IN ADVANCE FOR THIS, IT IS A BIG DEAL FOR ME!
128x128imabucfan
Imabucfan, obviously, you have gotten several relies ( replies, lol ), and please keep in mind, suggestions and recommendations, are generally made, based on what people like, for themselves. A thread that is in it's 3rd day, is not an old thread at all. I do not go to audio shows, anymore, as " I " do not find them informative, nor fun. But, for a person, such as yourself, definitely a good time to be had. I too, am here to help, when you are ready. 
You may as well forget the 8K budget. Go ahead and double that and you MIGHT be able to stay under. Good sound leads to a thirst for great sound. Six years ago I got in at 15K used, but vinyl was a must.
To save money without sacrificing sound quality be careful with the efficiency ratings of the speakers. Moderately powered amps give you sound quality without breaking the bank and are less likely to be bright. Speakers with powered subs allow for bass w/o having high powered amps. 

I have a Bryston 300wpc so I am looking for the right speakers. I don't want to sacrifice sound quality and maximize what I put together. I was told the Pass X1 preamp doesn't have a sub output for my Klipsch powered sub! Thanks dentdog I need all the help I can get. I am going to go to some audio stores and the expo in Tampa so I hope I can find the right equipment for my budget!
Thanks mrdecibel, I will be asking many questions once I feel I am going to buy or hookup equipment!