System Advice

Quad Vena for $800 + a Fluance or Rega TT

Which is what I have and it continues to amaze me

@aarongreenb You say you love those speakers.  What amplification have you used with them, so far, that make you love them?  I'm not familiar with that particular model of Totem speakers.  However, those I have spent serious seat-time with I've found to be, like most good speakers, very dependent upon the type of amplifier(s) used to drive them.

I have a personal preference for good tube gear, but it’s always subjective. An audio buddy of mine just bought a used Linn LK140 solid state amp (LK85 is similar), and a new Schiit Saga 2 preamp, and absolutely loves the sound he’s getting with this GR Research X-MTM Encores...your speakers should be an even easier load. That leaves some funds for a decent TT/cart.

Thanks all!

I've been using an NAD C328 (40 watts x 2 channels into 8 ohms) to power these speakers. I'll just be using the system for a turntable and, occasionally, to play digital files from my computer.  

Do folks have opinions about a new Rega 1 v. a used Rega 3? 

My opinion is whatever amp you decide on, I’d at least double the watts, your Totems are on the lower side of efficiency at 88db, and I bet with more oomph your going to like them even more.