2. misc-audio
  3. 164139-1404

A system for my college-bound daughter

UGHH!!! Usually, the thought of creating a new system would be fun, but it's my daughter, and this time it's not. 

Sources wanted: Turntable, CDs, Airplay Streaming

Cost: Would be nice to keep under $1K, certainly under $1,500 (true… that's less than the cost of a cartridge in my main turntable). Way less is fine and encouraged, but I don't want to buy her crap and have her go down the wrong road.

Why I'm finding this hard: WAF but at an even higher level (Teen Acceptance Factor!). She likes the way Crosley looks, but even she admits the sound is crap. Hmm, Peachtree might work. I used to have Peachtree Nova. It was overrated, but it would be a fine start for her. The only thing is that the one with integrated wireless would consume most of the cost, leaving little for speakers and a turntable (I'm sure I could get a cheap solution for playing CDs).  
 
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millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Wilson tune tots or Magico A1. Perfect little speakers for a cheap dorm room system. Perfect for casual listening.

If you are a superior audiophile like me you would need a custom tuned speaker system made of concrete a few feet thick. No rattling. Only perfect sound. With vents to the outdoors so no internal vibrations. The only thing you hear is EXACTLY what the artist intended.

One can only gape in awe at the dogged determination, single-minded obsession, and utter obliviousness of this most magnificent of suggestions. 
davehg
85 posts
 
If she’s in a dorm, get her a Headphone amp with a DAC and some decent headphones, plus a cheap Bluetooth speaker for parties. Her IPhone or IPad will be fine as a source. 
glupson
7,842 posts
 
How big will be that dorm room?

I would say Bluetooth speaker or, if she insists on more, a little (almost) all-in-one system a few above have mentioned (Denon, Marantz, Yamaha). That would include powered speakers as mapman and others suggested.

More than anything, ask her to wait until she moves into her room. She may decide to forgo a turntable, real system, etc. It is wonderful planning for life in college, but reality may send her wishes elsewhere.

Also...

"I’ve tried for Christmas one year and that was a mistake. "


That was a long time ago. She is a different person now and will be even more different come this fall. Which is not to say that Apple earphones will ever fall to be her second choice.
tvflem
17 posts
 
Cambridge Audio AX line - integrated amp with phono stage at $350, CD player at $350, a U-Turn tt at $180, and Kef Q150 speakers at $300 - all in under $1200.  Be great in a dorm.  Look at the accessories 4 less for that speaker pricing - or wait for a sale.
mesch
3,476 posts
 
Might check into the PS Audio SProut. Small integrated amp with DAC and phonostage. Small bookshelf speakers. 
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