Best system for the budding audiophile?


What began as a search for new speakers has rapidly evolved into the development of a new system. After reading many reviews (none of which are negative - Hmmm?!), I am humbly turning to this sage group for recommendations.

I am an avid listener of classical and jazz. I occasionally listen to select blues and rock, but that's not my first love. For me, I like a piano to sound like a piano, a guitar like a guitar, etc. No coloration, just the facts, so to speak. I am not a bass hound but prefer a detailed midrange and clear highs. I also look for a open spacious sound stage for symphonic pieces. I have a large room 15' by 20' but can't be too fussy with placement. I am budgeting around $5,000 for my new system.

Based on this information, what system would you build (Amp, CD player, speakers)? which is better bookshelf speakers with stands or floorstanding? I appreciate any advice you might have.

Thanks in advance,
cdilascia
I agree the Maggies sound great, but if someone wants ease of placement and wants to hear all of the music when he's off in the kitchen somewhere, Maggies aren't the best choice...they're so directional at the higher frequencies. Pick soemthing with wider dispersion.
I have just upgraded my system and have everyhing but my new speakers.

Rega Planet CD 2000 $875
Creek 5350SE Int. Amp $1,495
Cambridge Audio T500 Tuner $279
Carda Cross Interconnect $322
Kimber 4TC Speaker Cable $313 (20 ft. pair)

This combo works real well with my older speakers. This still leaves you with $1700 for a decent set of speakers. Have fun!
Spendor 1/2 speakers (used with stands $2,200?)
Ah! Njoe Tjoeb CD player (a sleeper at $770 fully tweaked)
A used integrated amp (Creek 5350 or McIntosh 6450) $1,500.
The rest on cables and inner connects.
In my humble opinion the above would be a good starter system on the budget put forth.