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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
vair68robert
625 posts
 
imabucfan

300wpc amp powering 99db sensitivity speakers is overkill ,
my friend has these speakers 
and powers them with an inexpensive chinese all tube integrated amp 
putting out 35 watts and they fill the room ( 16 x 22 ) with loud music 
and deep bass , he had a sub but put in storage .

As for tubes , look at Bob Carvers stereo tube amp and his warranty .

No matter which direction you choose go once you are set up and listening you'll want to start upgrading .

This Is A Very Addicting Hobby .
 

johnto
1,026 posts
 
To many of us overthink this hobby, just relax and enjoy what you have Pass and Bryston are near the top.
pophaudio
75 posts
 
5+++++ for millercarbn first advice, go for good integrated. Accuphase is in my mind it is warm easy to use very good build, you can upgrade to good sounding phono stage and good quality dac . You saving money on cables which is tricky part too . And if you like B&W don’t go cheap the cheap sound cheap....... good luck!!!!!!
doitwithlife's avatar
doitwithlife
98 posts
 
I believe that a given system has a voice, tone, and emotion. 

For me, I love the sound of a cello, piano accents, a guitars.  For the music flows over me is the big win. Its my personal pleasure.

After you figure out the size and presence speakers and your system can have in your room. Listen to whatever systems you can and find the sound that speaks to you. My opinion is the speakers have the most to do with that voice. Then find the top level of that brand speaker that fits you and start there.

The speakers needs will drive what amp you should have. 

Vinyl is an expensive and if don't have a passion for it, put it on hold and go CD or stream.

Focus on Dac next. Go for a new or newish dac, preferably that can be take software updates. A basic blue ray player used as a transport will save you money. Just use it as a transport . Or stream directly to the dac

Start with the factory power cords, and most basic interconnects. Tweeks are fine turning and will not know where you want to stear your system till you live with it awhile.

Yes great gear, monoblocks, etc are awesome.  But even used to get full value of amps like Pass labs, T+A, BHK, etc. Your budget isn't gonna get you there.

But you can build to it if that what you want.

B+W, not my favorites. I find then fatiguing and too technical. That sound is theirs across the line. I bought a pair new, and wanted to like them, just never got there. Haven't even hooked them up after moving 4 years ok


revreed
37 posts
 
Here’s a YouTube review of the Klipsch Cornwall IV if you haven’t seen it.

https://youtu.be/M8H3Wx80V3Y

 Steve G. also reviews a few other speakers you might be interested in his other reviews.

I haven’t heard your specific equipment but many of the other components described in a “Audio Show” environment. So much depends on system synergy too, so it would be hard for me to comment on the sound using your components. 
I would also recommend the Florida show to help you get some bearing on the type of speaker sound you like. Always let your ears, not specs or opinions be the judge (if at all possible).

Good luck in your journey.
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