I notice you mention sentimental value. I've been thinking about cleaning out a bit of my system, but I hold onto things that I like for no particular reason. Sometimes I think I'd like a simpler system, but I just can't let go of some of it. I suppose maybe I'm committed forever to vinyl, for one thing.

If I had no records and no audio gear and was starting from scratch, I think I'd probably go with something like the Audio Research VSi60, the Rega Saturn and a pair of ProAc Response D1. That's probably something like $10,000 at new retail prices and tax. In the interest of the disclosures you requested...I do have an Audio Research integrated that I'm very happy with. I own ProAc floorstanders that sound similar to the D1 I've mentioned. I don't own a Rega CD player, but I've listened to a Saturn in an Audio Research tube setup and it was mightily impressive.

In my own system, my digital audio comes through a DAC, which is for practical purposes a better option better than just a nice CD player. It allows me to get a high level of sound quality out of three digital devices running through it, instead of just one. But still, I like the idea of simplicity...I just haven't followed through with it.