what gear to get started

[manlystanley]

Hey there,

I'm new to the forum and would like a suggestion as to how to get started in the hifi world
I'd like to buy a decent tube amp for under $500. I I want to listen to vinyl, but I also want to listen to other sources - what provides decent quality besides mp3(lossless)?
does owning a bluray have any advantages in respect to audio?
My other question is that I would like floorstanding speakers, but also have future aspirations for a home theatre systems. Can I use them for both (two inputs for each speaker or something.
Forgive my newbness, just want to built a system from scratch with your help.

Hello WB,
I've been doing HI-FI and video for about 2 years and what I've found is that audio is addictive. So, think of us as your fellow brothers who are happily pumping Hi-Fi audio/video into our brains in order to get the latest high. But, like all addictions the 'need' grows and gradually we 'need' more and more.

Two years ago I started with a $50 used Denon receiver with a $50 pair of used speakers. As the 'need' grew I got more and more. Now I have a 250W power amp, with a separate pre amp along with 6 foot tall speakers. However, the 'need' will continue to grow and grow.

With that said, I'd suggest that you start small and find out what you like and dislike. In my two year journey I learned so much from the people on this site and have had gobs of fun. I'd suggest that you start looking at Craigslist and learn how to pick the few choice plums from the basket that's also mixed with rotten fruit. It's time consuming, but it's kind of fun. Then come and tell us of your score and we can all celebrate (you know we're all in this joint for life--so might as well have some fun).

I'll let others comment on if this is a good deal or not (They know more then me), but here's a complete system on craigslist for $200 (Minus speakers): http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/n...528658952.html

*************************** Copied from CL **************************
$200 or OBO. Cash and Carry.
System includes:
Pioneer DT-570 Audio Digital Timer
Pioneer F-99X FM/AM Digital Synthesizer Tuner (Rose Wood side panels)
Pioneer SG-90 Graphic Equalizer
Pioneer PD-M900 Multi-Play (5 Disc) CD Player (Rose Wood side panels)
Pioneer A-88X Stereo Amplifier (Rose Wood side panels)
Yamaha K-1020 Cassette Deck
O’Sullivan Stereo rack

************************************************** *************************

Lots of people are upgrading there systems these days. I've had good luck on CL.

Best Regards,
Stan