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A 'First' System for my Son

I am considering the purchase of a 'first' audio system for my 18 year-old. Not sure if this will be a long-term interest for him, but I think there is some basic curiosity there.

Anyone have recommendations on a good starter system? I would definitely consider one of the 'all in ones', something like the Cambridge Audio One +. Not sure just how much true music fidelity this thing can offer, but it does have a headphone jack and an iPod dock. Or, maybe an all-in-one just won't cut it; I would consider spending a little more on separates. There are probably some good deals here on Audiogon. I'm not even sure if a CD player is really a necessity here. An iPod dock, a headphone jack, USB, or lossless MP3 ability is important. Suggestions?
stickman451
phaelon
1,052 posts
 
"Figure out how much you're willing spend and schedule a time to take him shopping to listen to different equipment with a not to exceed budget. Get him what he wants."

That's great advise. Nice post Mceljo. To me, choosing a stereo for your son, when there is only a "basic curiosity" there, would be a lot like fixing him up with a girlfriend. Does he like to listen to your rig with you? The more you can share about your sons interests in music, the more successful we will be in advising you. One thought: If, in general, he has a technical fascination for things and what makes them work, a simple tube amp kit might be cool.
andromedaaudio
170 posts
 
Some thing with a turnatable involved , meaning not everything that is new is better
sebrof's avatar
sebrof
837 posts
 
I have 2 teenage sons. I set each up with a small tube amp and a pair of goodwill speakers - Old Pioneers and old Radio Shack. No CDP, no TT needed. They do not need more than 10 watts in a small bedroom.
They listen to them all the time, almost as much as I listen to my system. They're friends think the systems are pretty cool and think they sound great.
Absolutely no need to go overboard because their point of reference is iPod headphones, car stereos, and crappy stereos.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
let your son pick it out..his point of view, etc.
pmburnett
58 posts
 
My office system would be perfect.

Cambridge 340A
Cambridge iD Ipod dock
Cambridge Sirocco S30 monitors

Great synergy in the gear. Superb sound on a budget.

optional other gear
Cambridge 340C (great inexpensive cd player that I have in my system)
Cambridge 340T (good inexpensive tuner, but probably not necessary for most; we have great public radio stations with high quality indie, jazz, and classical programming)
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