Best System:

Brentworth Sound Labs Type III-A loudspeakers- $7500
Wyetech Labs Opal Linestage - $8000
Wyetech Labs Topaz power amp - $8000
Klyne Series 7 (can't recall the model #) phono stage - $4500
Basis Debut Turntable - $10,500
Graham 2.2 tonearm - $3200
Benz Ruby cartridge - $3000
CD player - WHAT CD player??? Can't recall, don't care.

This system made MUSIC! For anyone who believes that we can't create any semblance of the live experience in our homes, I offer this system as powerful evidence to the contrary. I've heard more expensive but I've never heard better.

Best Cheap system:

Sound Dynamics RTS-3's - bought used for $80
Vintage Kenwood KA-7300 integrated - bought used for $50
Cheapo Sony CDP - $100

This system is currently making music in my bedroom system. It betters systems I've heard that cost upwards of $1000. I also use a cassette deck with it occasionally and could hook up a turntable if I so desired. Those speakers are giant killers. They look like something your kid brother slapped together in the garage after sniffing model airplane glue but they sound like a couple grand! Bass down to 46 hz, too - not bad for a little bookshelf model.