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Simple System for a Super Senior?

I'm wanting to put together a system for my 80+ year old dad. The requirements of the system (CD, AM/FM) are: under 2K (used OK), easy to operate, remote comtrol, small foot print for speakers, cool running. The tonality should probably error on the side of brightness, as there's some hearing loss involved here. Considerations to this point are an Arcam Solo, Linn Music Classik and (your suggestion here.) Other thoughts are along the lines of an NAD receiver and Oppo player. Not sure about the speakers; have entertained some Totem Arros or Quad 22L's. Mind you...the man has never owned a high end or mid-fi set up, and he positively drools when he visits and listens to my system. Time for him to have this kind of joy in his home. Thanks in advance for your suggestions.
128x128mdrummer01
elevick
2,638 posts
 
I've got the MH trio but when it came to a senior, I bought my aunt a denon all in one. The quality crushes the competition such as yamaha. It is all one small box, with either cd or dvd and tuner. I'd go for the dvd built in for I think $999. The only thing that should be added is a $120 yamaha sub hidden in the corner.
Hearing goes with age. Don't waste a bundle on the higher resolution stuff that can not be appreciated. Mids and a sub are what count. Most of all, a simple remote counts the most.
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
I nominate a Music Hall CDeiver or similar all-in-one CD player/receiver (others available from NAD, Philips, and others) with (of course) unified remote, plus nice stand-mounted speakers such as the PSB Image 25's, Paradigm Studio 20's, or similar that fits the budget.
celtic66
1,674 posts
 
I purchased the Arcam Mini Solo and love its ease of use and sound. Suprisingly good sound. Paired it with Dynaudio 42s and it sings. Remote is simple enough and unit is very stylish and compact.
jdoris
972 posts
 
Underwood has an April Music one box system that Walter is offering with Epos speakers for two grand. No experience of it , but looks intriguing. might be worth giving Walter a call.

Nice to hear about you and your father.:)

John

http://www.underwoodhifi.com/retail.html#Anchor-Apri-10647
musicnoise
377 posts
 
One thing to consider also is the layout of the remote or the ability to replace the remote with a programmable unit. Seniors usually have less than ideal eyesight and arthritis. Large remotes with large buttons and simple controls may be more user friendly in this instance. Given that large button telephones and other such products are available for these reasons, I would think that someone has come up with a large button remote. If not, there is a real project that could be of value.
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