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First Stereo System Help

Hi all,

This Christmas I received a Pro-ject Debut Carbon but will be building the rest of the system myself. This is my first stereo system so my knowledge is pretty limited and I'm looking for advice on speakers and an amp. Some (hopefully) helpful information and some of my thoughts.

1. Listening area will be an apartment living room, maybe ~350-400 sqft, don't need huge volume.

2. Hoping to spend ~$1000, fine with buying used.

3. I know I need a phono stage, and from what I've read the Rega Fono Mini is one of the best budget phono stages for MM cartridges and will outclass phono stages in integrated amps significantly. This has made me shy away from something like a Marantz PM6004 and lean towards a separate phono stage. Is this true?

Thanks in advance for your help.
priptonite
priptonite OP
9 posts
 
4 ohm impedance and 87.5 dB/W/m sensitivity.

I was able to listen to them through the 15.3 (turned out not to be a 15.2) and a Rega RP3 (didn't have the Debut Carbon). Might try to find a 15.2 or 15.3 online since I know I liked the sound, but it's tough since I don't know what I'm missing. Especially when it comes to a separate phono stage.
schubert
7,386 posts
 
I own some Dreamcathchers, nice speakers though a bit dtnamically limited as one would expct.
They do need some power, I'd be looking for an Odyssey Kartoga.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,482 posts
 
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR speakers cost a pittance, are well received, and would leave a fair amount to pick up a nice integrated amp with phono input. That's what I'd consider.

Jolida fx10 tube integrated + outboard Bellari phono pre-amp would be another nice ticket.

Add a powered sub to finish things off to boot if you can and you are in a very good place.
mesch
3,529 posts
 
Given your speakers specs, I would consider a integrated that provides a 4ohm rating of ~150wpc. Though you don't listen at high levels, your speakers will be better controlled with the extra power reserves. If possible, take your speakers to dealers and listen to different amps.

Mapman is correct on the Pioneers. Haven't heard a better speaker under $250 retail. Their retail is $129.
mikirob
955 posts
 
I'd second Mapman.
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