More questions from Chris L.

Bravo -- A convert.
You needn't go for separates to start out. There are integrated amps from NAD and some of the British companies and speakers from NHT that won't cost you any more than you were planning to spend on the Best Buy option.
Where do you live? One of us probably lives close enough to help you and quite possibly someone in the group has something in a closet that would get you on the path. There is a ridiculous glut of equipment for sale these days. It's a buyer's market and we've reached a place where things a guy like you might need to launch his disease are available very cheaply.
What sources do you wish to include?

No kidding Sean, very loose construction. Impressive? big, yes and semi "shiny". I don't have much interest in impressing anyone so having said that I'll just reiterate that I'm cutting through the surface HT stuff that is out there right now. I'm very interested in a pair of Intermezzo 2.6's as they seem like amazingingly well constructed speakers with a lot of thought put into the contruction and how that plays into the final output. From the specs and reviews I checked out last night Stereophile stated best that for the size mind you (and being completely non-fiber, mostly aluminum) they were clear and highly capable with all but the deepest lows. They seemed to do best hooked into what I believe was a nicely warm, tube reciever and stayed away from sounding metallic throughout the test despite the construction. It just so happens that they ARE pretty too. All that means is that my girlfriend and her cat won't kill me (as slowly) for taking over a room for the sake of placement.

Retailing right around 2k I've found them here for much cheaper so that puts them well within my price. I'm in Seattle so the specialty shops are quite numerous for listening tests. Does NAD make any amps that promote good detail and transparency to match these 2.6's?

"Where do you live? One of us probably lives close enough to help you and quite possibly someone in the group has something in a closet that would get you on the path. There is a ridiculous glut of equipment for sale these days. It's a buyer's market and we've reached a place where things a guy like you might need to launch his disease are available very cheaply."

-VERY good point Macrojack and I have checked out the browse section of AudioGon and found unbelievable prices. Terminology is seeming to come together as something more than latin finally so soon I should be able to do the math on what the "right setup" for me is by finding tech that reproduces that one unique variable, what each listener indeed listens too.
Thanks again, Chris

Chris: I said that some might intially find the JBL's to be "impressive" based on the physical size of the cabinet and the larger than "normal" sized woofer that one commonly finds in most current designs.

Other than that, i'm glad that you have enough interest in the subject to look around and try to educate yourself on the subject prior to spending your money. While we can provide you with different tips and tricks, it will be up to you in terms of what you finally spend your money on. Sean
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The missing gold nugget of advice hear is that you won't know anything about how speakers sound until you get them home and listen IN YOUR ROOM. I sense that you're researching brand names and construction practices. There's a LOT of history and "culture" here. Don't overdo the information processing. Getting up to speed to converse in the lingo isn't at all important, as NO_ONE can help you decide what will sound best to YOUR ears in your room. This cannot be overstressed. So start by getting a few pairs of various 2-way monitors that are well-liked, and try them out at home with a neutral integrated like the NAD C370 or Audio Refinement Complete. Suggestions might include the
Soendor S3/1p ($800 used), Revel M20 ($1200)or N805($1600), or cheaper decent two-ways like the flasjier Triangles, Quad 11L, B&W 601, even NAD Super Ones or Paradign 20. They'll all sound different. Get good stands (like the $200 steel Plateau V23 clones of the $500 Target), cover your sidewalls with pillows, etc., and trust your ears. Use a decent source like the new NAD C541i for $400. Keep it simple, relax, and trust your ears. You'll be shocked at how a tiny good 6" 2-way will sound so much better than monstrous dreck! Oh...check the new JMLabs Chorus 70? as well....