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Looking to get started. please help

Hi everyone. I am new here. I had a friend suggest I check this site out. I am really new to higher end audio and am looking for some help!

For years I have been listening to music on a crappy surround sound system and I feel it's time to move on.

I know I am at the VERY low end, but right now I would like to spend about $1500 on speakers and amp at the most to move on to something better. Over time, I'd invest more money, but that's my max at the moment.

My main sources for listening to music would be a record player, my iPod, computer and occasionally my TV. Because I am not really into movies or anything like that, I've definitely decided I don't need anything more than a 2-channel system.

I went to a local shop and this was what was recommended to me...

Receiver - Onkyo
http://us.onkyo.com/Products/model.php?m=TX-8050&class=Receiver&source=prodClass

Speakers - PSB
http://www.wwstereo.com/PSB/IMAGINEBBA

But, then someone told me to come to this site and ask for advice. I was also told that I really shouldn't get a receiver, but instead get an integrated amp.

I really need help! Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
rootsrockreggae
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
Rootsrockreggae, did you read this review on the NAD? Also, here is a review for the Integra version of the Onkyo. My understanding of the "Audiophiles Welcome?" section at the end of the Integra review is that the unit is a good choice for a simple one box solution, but a little extra effort and expense will result in better sound.

As I previously stated, to use the NAD, you will also need a DAC for digital inputs (TV & iPod), and you can connect a subwoofer to the NAD C316, just differently from the C326.
rootsrockreggae OP
18 posts
 
I did read the review. I'm really not able to tell the difference between the 316 and the 326. Is the 326 worth the extra cost?

Do you have a dac recommendation?
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
For the $1500 budget,

Mini Lore - $649

NAD C316 - $380

Schiit DAC - $449

Also, researching a few other DAC's under $500.

The turntable will work with its phono stage, and just add the NAD upgrade later.
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,883 posts
 
OP-

there has never been a better time to get into Audio/HiFi.
A ton of great, used gear is on the market. Have Fun!
acbc
38 posts
 
Consider looking at the Dared i 30 integrated with built in DAC. I believe it can be bought new for a reasonably low price, and will sound much better than the onkyo. As for speakers the wharfedale EVO (40's or 50's) are a good value. Quad 22L2's are nice, and a fav of mine the KEF 104/4's or reference 4's are great. Speakers, whatever brand you go with are probably best bought used. Don't forget that you'll need to buy some speaker cable too.

Good luck
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