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Newbie help - Building a system from scratch

Hello all, long time lurker here, looking for advice :)

Due to the Covid-19 situation, I haven’t been able to travel around and test equipment so I’m most likely to buy completely blind. Therefore, I’ve done quite a bit of research. Here is where I’m at:

  • Monitor Audio Silver 300

  • Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum III

  • Rega Planar 3


How does this look? Do you think this would be a good match?

1. What is your budget?

I’m OK to spend about 7k to 10k on this.

2. What are you looking for?

  • Floor speakers

  • Tube Amp

  • Turntable

  • Optional: Streamer for Tidal

3. How will you typically be using the gear?

I will use them in a large room for targeted listening

4. What gear do you own?

Nada

5. What do you intend on using for a source?

Turntable and perhaps a streamer

6. What material will you be using your gear for?

Music only - I listen to Jazz, rock, soul, primarily. Some classical sometimes.

7. Are you willing to buy used?

I’m willing to buy used.


Any pointers are welcome :) 

swissified
lewm
13,380 posts
 
dekay, I mentioned the very same issues related to the room, just one post above yours. We agree.
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,685 posts
 
lewm:

Yes, we do agree...

Tired of seeing WAY uninformed suggestions in the forums for specific gear/components, especially now that it is difficult to audition such @ local shops.

DeKay
dorkwad
548 posts
 
I agree with MC on the Double Impacts.  Not a lot of WAF to them, however.  I'd have to go with the Audible Illusions 3A preamp with MM phono section.  I had one of the AI 2D's for 18 years and then the AI 3A w/ MC phono section for another 6-7 years.  This tube preamp sounds very neutral for a tube component.  The only drawback is it has no remote.  I finally went all out on my system and got a TRL DUDE preamp which also has no remote.  Get a chance to do occasional exercise instead of constant sitting--you'll have to change records anyway.  The AI preamp would be a sincere upgrade in sound if paired with say a used Nuforce Ref 9 v2 or v3 mono amps.  You could get used mono amps for close to $1000.  The AI preamp with phono would run about $1100-1200 used.  If you stick with AI tubes, the preamp just doesn't have stuff go wrong.  You could find the Double Impacts used for about $1800-2000.  With all of this, you could have the start of a super system.  A similarly priced TT/arm would be the VPI Scout.  Use very close to $1000.  

Bob


asvjerry's avatar
asvjerry
4,796 posts
 
@swissified, welcome to The Journey. *S* (Mind the rocks 'n roots in the trial, I mean, trail....;)...)

Suggestion on the Spouse Approval on speakers...
-A clear picture(s) of the preffered speaker(s).
-A tape measure; obvious function. ;)
-Ideally: Ones that are available in different finishes...
-Promise ANYTHING....but follow through. *S*  This may prove to be very important, unless she 'Loves how it makes Her music selections sound."

Don't giggle...it works.

Other suggestions I leave to the assembled...and it'd help if you suggest a budget for your intent.  Don't fear starting 'small', part of the enjoyment is 'growing your own', much like other 'hobbies'....;)

Enjoy, and happy shopping.
J
swissified OP
2 posts
 
You guys are truly awesome, so much good advice and great insights. 

I've had some other business to take care of today but wanted to say that I've read all the answers.

I'll ask further questions tomorrow :) Just wanted to express my gratitude for now. 
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