2. analog
  3. 1312052755

Newbie looking for advice...

I'm looking to assemble a warm (yet rocking) musical system for a 10' X 11' room with a budget of about $6K. I know this isn't much for a truly killer analog setup, but I love the rich and cozy sound of tubes and vinyl so I'm trying to make it happen! I listen to mostly classic rock, funk, and some jazz. The majority of my music is vinyl, but I also have a ton of FLAC's on my Macbook pro and assorted hardrives. I don't need a CD player, or a tuner.

I inherited some gear from my father and was wondering if I should keep it, integrate pieces of it, or sell it all and start over? This is what he left me:

Adcom ACE-515 AC Enhancer
Adcom GFP-555 Preamp
Adcom GFA-555 Power amp (needs repair - has one blown channel)
Technics 1200MK2 (with no cartridge)
Creek OBH-8 MM Phono preamp

He had this hooked up to Infinity Kappa 7's (which I didn't inherit) and I remember it being face-meltingly LOUD and fun, but not very sweet, detailed or "holographic". I am not looking for skull crushing volume, I am looking for a transcendent and dimensional listening experience where you can hear what kind of wood Frank Zappa's guitar is made of!

I'm totally open to buying used (even older/classic) equipment here on Audiogon, there seems to be tons of great gear/deals, but the selection is overwhelming and I don't know where to start! Any advice would be great!
rhythmnsound
tbromgard
814 posts
 
If it were me, I would opt to change my components to get the sound you want. Look at a Jolida tube integrated amp-60 watts per channel and a nice turntable. I would look at a Sota Comet, Rega P3, MMF 5.1 which are all nice options, plus a flexible phono amp such as Musical Surroundings. There are lots of speakers to consider-Totem would be a nice match and would provide a holographioc image. Finish with some nice cables-perhaps Kimber. Good luck
rhythmnsound OP
10 posts
 
Thanks for the guidance Tbromgard - I'll take a look at your recommendations. What should I do to get the best out of my FLAC files in an otherwise analog setup like the one you mention? Do I need some sort of server and a DAC too?
rwwear
2,866 posts
 
You may want to open the Adcom amp up and check the internal fuses. They are prone to blowing easily. It is a decent amp though not warm sounding. The Technics is a good table I think.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,440 posts
 
What you are looking for requires the best of the best....very expensive. If you are willing to be satisfied with less it may be affordable.
More to discover