Budget Audiophile system under 2k

I disagree that an audiophile system can't be developed at this budget. It is all about the intent, the desire to get the the greatest sonic experience for the investment, which requires a learning curve and research. I would think that for most of us this is an ongoing process. Certainly is for me. A very enjoyable system can be developed with this budget.  

I agree that a little more information on the desired sources would be beneficial.

The Outlaw receiver is a common/quality recommendation. However has many features that may not be needed, FM tuner, phonostage, and DAC. Another common/quality recommendation is for the Yamaha A-S5,7,801 series integrated amplifiers which also possess internal phonostage and DAC. Might be best to identify the speaker 1st, thereby having an idea about power requirement. Avoid speakers that are hard to drive. Look for quality over quantity regarding power. There are many speakers that would fit, Elac, Wharfdale, PSB, Dali, and others.  For the small room under consideration herein I usually recommend stand mount types however there are small floor standers that would fit into this budget.

Again, what source(s) are to be considered?  

The Musical Fidelity M2si Integrated Amp now on sale for $599 and one of the Elac Debut speakers now on sale would be a great start...I'm also very impressed with the Marantz CD6006

the Magnepan LRS possibly, depending on room size and listening and music type preferences

Some good examples so far you might also consider some of the NAD imtegrateds with Elac or Monitor, PSB speakers. If your friend doesn't have a lot of CDs he could look at a Node2i streamer as a source.

thanks for suggestions.  right now the source is probably a pc with external hard drive out via usb playing flac files via foobar2000.   i will look at the streamer