Sound System on $10K Budget

@ Carlsbad,

just curious what your recommendations would be? 

there are way too many options here and there is no such easy break down

yout best bet would go to a local dealer and listen to a system if you purchase dealer demos you can get a great value with the service support and guidance that only a dealer can provide.

for example we frequently loan or take back models to enable a client to purchase the system of their dreams over time bbby using trades or display loaners, that can be returned to allow for that clients budget to go even further.

we would have demo loudspeakers from 3k to 9k with a good integrated amp which has a built in dac

the unison research Due http://www.unisonresearch.com/en/products/unico-series/integrated-amplifiers/unico-due.htmldoes just that a high quality hybrid tube /solidstate integrated with agreat built in dac 3600 all you then need is a bluesound node 800

now you have a great tube preamp 100 watt solid state power amp

a sabre based dac all in one elegant box no interconnects needed just one digital cable only and of course a set of speaker cables.

or micromega M100.

then for loudspeakers the legacy focus signatures 9k

dave and troy

Audio intellect NJ

to be honest with you, with your clear and practical assessment of how you will use the system, i don’t think you need to spend 10 grand

4-5-6 grand should do it... my 2 cents

maybe get lower-mid range floor stander focals or elacs with a matching center channel for tv... then a decent av receiver

I am looking to put in a home audio system that I can more casually listen to as I work, cook, etc.

If it is casual listening, I would agree with jjss49 in that you don't need to spend up to $10k for the whole system.  You may not even need to go up to 5k if you're listening from your kitchen. In this context, you can just use cheap or freebie cables included with the gear.

Thank you so much for the responses everyone! I will have to look into loudspeakers and report back. 

I don’t have a receiver/CD player, but just looking for something simple I can plug my phone into. Trying to make the system as easy to use and setup as possible, even if that entails sacrificing sound quality. I don’t want another repeat of my headphones where I never end up using them because it’s too difficult. 

Maybe I’ll consider dropping the budget if it’s not worth it. However, the system is something I will probably owe for a bit of time, so don’t mind spending a bit more upfront. 

I like used equipment because I think it offers the best value, but I am open to demo equipment and having a relationship with a dealer will probably be helpful for a novice like me. 
 

Any dealer recommendations in the Boston / New England area? Ideally New Hampshire given the sales tax.