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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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
3,410 posts
 
Might check into the PS Audio SProut. Small integrated amp with DAC and phonostage. Small bookshelf speakers. 
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,378 posts
 
Sprout is a good suggestion. IIRC, they're discontinuing or updating so the older version may be available for a bargain price new. Cheers,
Spencer
cakyol's avatar
cakyol
940 posts
 
Try Naim audio mu-so, but she will probably still need a turntable.
But the sound will be sweet.  Something she could use for years to come.

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