hmm.. i like how this dude isnt just giving audiophile knowledge but audiophile experience. his advice isnt just for instant gratification but looks ahead long term, as well as considering real issues like budget and fall out rate. it’s like helping people enjoy the most out the hobby while avoiding mistakes alonh the way. and it deals with heart issues like impatience etc to avoid making dumb decisions. we all need that..
I've been looking into changing my Bose Sound Bar to an HiFi system for some weeks now. It is a big change. I am not an audiophile but music is a big part of my life and I want to improve my experience. I've been discussing with vendors, reading blogs, watching videos. I feel I just received the best advice from you today. Thank you, it really helped in my decision process.
I like the humbleness of how you approach this subject. 0 pretentious attitude. You have been to the upper levels qnd still relate 100% to someone with zero knowledge in the field. Great job sir.
Andrew, as a very experienced music lover and long time audiophile I greatly enjoy your reasoned and sensible approach to newbies in this wonderful hobby. You have a great way of explaining complex issues in an easy to understand way, something I always tried to strive for when I sold audio. My interest in music and audio started at 7 years old (thanks, Mom & Dad!), my ears have been a blessing and a curse at times, lol! The quality of gear at very affordable prices is truly astonishing these days; no one needs be scared or shamed they can't afford to spend thousands on a quality system! Great series!
Let's put this out there: if you want an integrated amp and stereo speakers, the vintage market is a great thing for poor folks like me. I have a nakamichi RE-3 (integrated amp with built in phono preamp), Technics SL-1300 turntable, shure srh440 headphones, and pioneer cs-G515 speakers. I've been happy with that a looong time, and I think it would cost a pretty budget to do any better with the stereo. I did have to get the amp serviced eventually, it just needed certain bits cleaned out, nbd. A lot of this stuff doesn't really wear out, so if you can't afford to support the new stuff right away, you don't have to. My "big upgrade" of the last few years was getting a schiit fulla2 for my desk 😅
Got my first turntable today, it came as a bundle on amazon with speakers. They are Presonus Eris speakers. And that’s all I have. The Audio Technica LP60X has a preamp built in, and the speakers are Active ones. Got everything hooked up and the sound is amazing. Only spent $200 on the whole thing. But for my first I love it and will eventually upgrade. Once I understand this world I got into ☺️
Great little setup. When you'll start considering upgrading, consider changing the cartridge first. Getting to a better cartridge will go a long way so a small investment. Also, search on RUclips there are a lot of video tutorials on how to calibrate your cartridge properly (even if it's sounds fine out of the box, doesn't hurt to check it is properly set), this will also prevent unnecessary wear on your records.
He is absolutely right. I just got my first setup: B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers, Cambridge audio AXR85 Integrated Amp and I added to that an iFi Zen DAC. It sounds amazing compared to all the soundbars/mono things I heard before. If you are new to this like me PLEASE check some stuff about room placement. I had terrible almost non existent bass because I was sitting in the middle of a square room getting all those reflections cancelling the sound. Once I moved my chair and speakers to a decent position the sound came to life.
Doesn't really matter the brand, per se. We all start somewhere. Some of us start with inherited gear or refer to existing gear/gear of someone else's as a baseline of where to go from there. Point really is to just start somewhere. Great commentary Doug!
This is so true. Also look on craigslist. A lot of the time people are trying to get rid of this type of stuff when they get older or if they move and don't really know what it's worth or don't care.
Andrew, I love how you explained each audio component and provided a simple approach to Alex on how he should think, by sharing your professional experience from your perspective.
I’m a salesman at a local stereo shop in Mesa, AZ and I haven’t even finished the whole video and already know this is gonna help me tremendously with sales. ❤️ RUclips needs more people like you!
Andrew, you gave great advice. One of the things people forget to take account is the size of the room. Great floor speakers can sound horrible in a small home office. Likewise expensive high end bookshelf speakers will sound horrible if overdriven to fill a large room with sound. Starting with the modest system and grow from there is always sound advice than to swing for the fences and end up frustrated with a system than is seldom used.
Years ago I started my hi-fi journey with $500 Audioengine 5 active speakers and a $100 DAC connected to my computer. Loved the sound. Over the years I gradually upgraded to a $10,000 system, that includes both digital and analog-front-end. Each upgrade solved a specific aspect of music reproduction I wanted to improve, so each time the result was noticeable and very satisfying. I never thought about upgrading until I felt I wanted to improve something in my system. One of the huge “upgrades” was finding perfect speaker placement, far away from the wall behind. That moment I felt like my system jumped 10x in value, the improvement was incredible. My current system sounds almost perfect to me and I am not planning the next upgrade until I become more experienced in critical listening and learn how to appreciate more expensive gear.
Lots of people upgrade and sell perfectly good 2nd hand hifi equip on-line. Just because its 20 years old doesn't mean that it does not deliver. My amp is 10 years old (budget Marantz) my tuner and Cd player are around the same and my speakers (all budget purchases at the time Marantz amp, tuner, cdplayer Tannoy R1 bookshelf and Revolver 350- inherited from me da- floorstanders and Aiwa turntable-my wife bought about 10 years ago). This system sounds perfect (turntable coming to the end of days though). I'm gonna upgrade speaker cable as this was budget csmbridge audio cable when i got it. Otherwise a ok. You'll definitely get fantastic sounding hifi 2nd hand and working great. Best of luck and enjoy
Recently went from vintage 70's speakers and amp gifted from family to my first high(er) end self bought setup. Spend a little bit more than I intended, but glad I did. Got myself a pair of B&W 707s2 speakers along with a NAD c368 (incl bluos module) integrated stereo amp. For most audiophiles this must definately be considered a 'beginner setup', To me this sounds like heaven and is exactly what I was looking for. This feels like an amazing start of my journey without ever regretting spending around €2000,- on my setup. I can only wonder if I would have felt the same if I would have spend twice as much on my first setup. I doubt it to be honest. The amount spend and the level of enjoyment are perfectly in balance for me!
I was happy to hear you mention ELAC speakers, their B6 2.0 is by far the best sounding 6" bookshelf speakers I've heard, and I spent a good year shopping around. I paired them with a vintage Marantz 2230, and the combo has a beautiful marriage of vintage warmth & modern clarity.
Jeff Krawczyk I actually experienced the opposite, I think Andrew Jones elacs are grossly overrated. Different expectations I guess, the true old elacs with the jet tweeters and 4pi super tweeters were high end speakers. Loved those, Andrew Jones did a great job on his elac budget design. But it does sound as a budget speaker imho. Not bad!! But not great by any means.. I would buy a infinity QE over an elac any day. But I like ribbon tweeters, so taste is a factor to I guess.
Hello Andrew. It is very easy to get caught up with the latest technology . I know I have. One recent example is my Interest in audio receivers from the 1970s era. This began after I started listening to my albums on my stereo system. It had been 10 years or more since it was used. I have realized that what I have does not need to be replaced. I am looking forward to enjoying hearing the music from my original stereo system. - Nikko NR750 - Technics SL-QD22 - Advent Baby 2 speakers - Sony DVP- S7700 - Onkyo TA-RW255 Keep up the good work and looking forward to future audio videos.
Exactly why I recommend the Emotiva TA-100 to start. Integrated amp with preouts. It allowed me to add an A300 amp later when I bought some big boy speakers in the T1+. Love this setup
Great lesson for new-comers to vinyl, Andrew. Terrific insight. I've been a long-time vinyl fan (decades-long), and I'm HAPPY about the re-disovery of vinyl. I've even sent a Fluance turntable with their powered speakers to two of my family members with some LPs that connect them with past family music. Fluance offers turntables + powered speakers starting below $400, and these are very good starter systems. I presently own their RT85T turntable and their Reference series 5.1 Surround-Sound speaker system, but I've been building-up my audio system for a long time. DISCLAIMER: I'm not affiliated with Fluance in any way. I mention the company for reference purposes, and to help new-comers find an affordable way to begin listening to LPs. Music matters. Keep up the good job, Andrew,.
From a experienced audiophile, I truly appreciate the ground up perspective and echo the prior comments on the no quick fix type of response. Music and stereo is more about the experience. Most with the stereo gene recall the first time they heard music through a great system. Thank you for taking the time to help navigate this worthy journey! Keep it up.
I love this video. I watched everyone you made and I have to say that this is really good advise for someone who has not a real idea about what to do in terms of purchasing an hifi system. I'm not going to name names but there are channels out there that can make someone feel like if they have not right to listen to music in a decent way if they don't spend 10 grand minimum or make them fell like idiots for not be able to recognise what stereo or stage image or whatever the thing is related to the expert listener. There is always a way to tech people the good ways in life and you just did it here. Well done Andrew. I'm sure that will make some fella happy out there.
This is great advice. I live in a place where it is a wasteland for audio gear. Anything high end price is equivalent to a one acre of land here. Local currency worth nothing when it comes to USD exchange and that makes everything sky high expensive. Even something like 400$ is very expensive here. I began my journey few years back with a pair of made in japan marantz LS850 tower speakers (nobody heard of), found them in a second hand electronics shop. I have been powering them with thrift store receivers until i recently sold everything except for the speakers because they have the sound i like. Now im planning on moving up to a NAD amplifier. All my sources are digital. This new found love for audio gear has led me towards headphones which i made my primary listening space using a HD6XX + little dot mk2 + fx audio dac x6. Like he says start small...! Then you will figure out completely different things you might like. Like myself from speakers to headphones. I don't even see a need for me to upgrade any further. Thanks a lot for your video sir.
Great advice! Audio is a hobby for most of us here. You enjoy the hobby, or any other hobby, from learning and making improvement. I have a rich friend who spent $200k to have his setup professionally done. Yeah, it sounds amazing. But he gets bored quickly. The process is more important than the result.
Wow, I’m half way through and after watching TONS of audio videos, this is one of the best. This is perfect for a “half-pregnant” audiophile. You have a new sub.
I've been doing this since I was 17, I'll be 62 in December, music was always important to me. I set each of my sons off with a basic system. I've also helped some young people I worked with in Home depot to get started in audio. I would direct them to go listen first, usually at Best Buy they have some decent stuff. Then I'd select some used components from Ebay and we had a lot of success. Half of my system which is separates was purchased on Ebay. That's an option for those on a tight budget.
Good advice. I had Atoms for years that sounded fine. I got the itch for towers for more bass and volume. My setup was a Classe CAP151 integrated and Paradigm Studio Seven towers. What I came to realize is the louder it gets, not only do you need more space and headroom, but the room itself comes alive. I'm not rich and only have limited space and budget for (wife friendly)acoustic treatment. The system didn't come alive at reasonable volumes in my small space, but could rock your socks off. (Perhaps due to the vibration of the room). I now use a 60's HH Scott 272 tube integrated. I built small speaker cabinets on stands for a pair of Dayton Audio PS220-8 full range drivers. The sound is dynamic and lovely for acoustic jazz. I am able to send a center channel preamp out to the Classe to power two subs. I have plenty of adjustments with this setup and I no longer feel inclined to turn up volume for lack of involvement.
A couple of questions that I find very useful when choosing, or giving advice, on purchasing equipment are the following: 1. What kind of music are you listening to? Pop, rock, opera, hiphop, symphonies, hard rock, metal, folk music, instrumental, dubstep, disco, etc. Can you give some examples please? 2. What type of sound do you like? Heavy bass, powerful, lean, fine treble, dark, light, etc. 3. What is your level of interest in audio equipment? Do you have any previous experience? 4. How do you prefer to listen to your music? Do you prefer vinyl, CD or maybe streaming from Spotify? A person asking for advice might have the following answers to the questions above: - "95% of the time I listen to 80's hard rock. Iron Maiden, Kiss, Judas Priest, Metallica and all that goodness. Some more metal like Pantera, Slayer and In Flames I also really like. Some rock, Bryan Adams and some Bruce Springsteen, sometimes a bit of pop like Madonna". - "I really like bass, I'm a basshead and want to feel the bass in the stomach and in the furniture, I have no neighbours so I like to turn the volume up quite a bit, just to get the physical sense of the music". "I'm not a total audio nerd, but I know what I like when I hear it and I have owned a preamp and poweramp before, but I focus on the music, not so much on the equipment. - "I like to play CDs, I'm old school that way. No streaming for me, thanks." OK, so let's build on that. Let's skip the bookshelf speakers and the Martin Logans/Magnepans. Maybe in the ballpark of floor standing JBL, Klipsch, Cerwin Vega? Subwoofer? What do we need to drive that? An integrated 70W amp, like a NAD, Denon or maybe a receiver? We can also rule out any Bluetooth/multimedia setup. So with that as background, I find it much easier to get in the ballpark of equipment to buy. And yes, the example is me, except for the streaming part =)
Recently I picked up a middling Insignia (Best Buy house brand) AV receiver at a pawn shop for $60 and a pair pf B&W LCR600 S3 loudspeakers at a vintage shop for $200. The receiver needed a lot of cosmetic TLC and some contact cleaner, but it is fully functional (albeit without a remote) and can drive the B&Ws just fine as well as fill a void if my main AV receiver should ever need servicing. Along with an NAD 5000 CD player and an ADCOM ACE 515 power controller (both 30 years old) those have become my bedroom system, and it sounds better than probably 90% of the home stereo systems in America. You really don't have to spend a lot of money to get better than decent sound.
I've been thinking and I actually watched your video for a second time and my conclusion is if money is no object your savings account is stocked your retirement is well on its way and you won't miss the money then spend it but if you're on a budget like most of us then a $20 receiver and a pair of fisher speakers from the Goodwill will do for starters you can upgrade a little at a time as the money and the equipment come available in the meantime be happy with what you have and be thankful for what you get
I just helped a friend out with setting up a new system. I selected the KEF Q150s (massively on sale right now), Marantz NR1200 and a modest Def Tech sub to just fill the room. I also set up Sonos for whole house audio, hooked up his TV, a new Roku and connected his Blu-Ray and Phono for all the media. That Marantz is surprisingly strong.
Been an audiophile for years, I remember how I got started and the many mistake that I made. First this video gave you and honest review, he and audiophile like many of us and he dosent look at you and wonder of how much dollars that you might be spending like the sales staff in the audio shop. However being having less knowledge and tight budjet, you should also consider used equipment..... Music have many genre, what is your prefered music. This will determine which speakers to go for. Enviroment is important. Whether you intend to set up in a living room, bedroom or basement or others. The ideal space should be comfortable to you and whoelse is living with you. Speakers should idealy blent with the rest of your furniture. Remember there is no perfect system setup. You are building the setup you peference is the upmost important. The sound should be to you liking. Others may have their opinion but goes with your own choice. Hope you are happy and wellcome to the group.
Great video and good advice about not overspending instantly. I use(d) my computer for almost all of my listening, and the greatest change was when I went from speakers meant solely for computer use (Creative Inspire 5.1 or something; good speakers if you sit in a small space and perfectly at one place) to an amplifier with stereo speakers. It's like going from an old CRT television to a 4k 60" model: everything is basically still the same, but just bigger, better, and more detailed.
My advice? BUY USED! I bought a used pair of Castle Winchesters $4K circa 1990 (adjusted to inflation 8K to 10K today) Paid $400. in absolute mint condition from the widow across the street. Yes this was a lucky buy, but deals exist every day.
I generally like the Emotiva brand for "bang of the buck" hifi equipment. You can get the TA-100 Integrated Amp, B1+ Bookshelf Speakers, SE8 Subwoofer and all the necessary cables for around than $1000.
Great advice! I’d also throw Vanatoo T0 and T1 out there as solid powered speaker options. After 25 years of falling down the rabbit hole of expensive speakers... I’m blown away at what $500 can get you now.
Very good and considered advice from Andrew, as always. The part that many inexperienced with any hobby should heed is the bit about starting smaller to see if you really need or want more. How many people have or at one time had a garage/attic full of the unused gear left over from hastily embarked upon new hobbies. Yard sales, pawn shops and Goodwill stores are full of exercise equipment, mountain bikes, paddle boards, musical instruments and yes, audio equipment. Whatever endeavor du jour the intrepid owner quickly tired of. Even when folks keep, say, their expensive DSLR and four lenses they often fall into the habit of using the cell phone because it's simply more convenient. So, starting on the smaller side can definitely be a money saver in the long run. Beyond that just remember that speakers always make the biggest difference in your sound. Get the speakers that sound best to you first. And for that you HAVE to listen in person. If don't have stores close enough to drive to then buy from a reputable (authorized dealer) with a good return policy. Just a quick view of the Crutchfield website shows that currently you could get an Onkyo stereo receiver with two channel pre-outs for $400 or a Cambridge Audio stereo receiver without them but with a better power supply (theoretically) for the same price. Pair those with any offering from Elac, Polk, JBL, PSB or Wharfdale that you prefer for $200 to $500 a pair and for $$600 to $900 or less you are well on your way to a new level of audio enjoyment. Given you already have a turntable and the receivers have Bluetooth all you'd really need to add if desired is a CD player and a decent one can be had for $150 to $300 so now you're up to $1200 max. Add in a good powered sub from JBL, Polk or SVS and at most you're adding another $300 to $500. So now you're at $1700 on the high end and possibly as little as $1100 on the low end depending on what speaker, CD player and Sub you decided on. I know a lot of people out there would be very happy for the rest of their lives with a $1100 or so stereo system. You might be one of them which is why Andrews' advice to start small is so important.
If you have a computer, just plug a pair of active studio monitors. They don't cost much, there is no need for more gear and provide excellent sound quality.
I can see how it's tempting to throw all your money at something expensive right out of the gate to skip all the preamble, but I agree with Andrew: you don't even know what you like yet. Here's an analogy: when I first decided I wanted to ride a bicycle to work I had all sorts of grand plans - super expensive (for me) mountain bikes, full carbon road bikes back when that was only just becoming a thing - I was convinced I needed to buy once and buy right. I'm so glad I didn't. Instead, I went from modest bike to modest bike, learning what I liked and how to fix things as I went. The bike I ride now is nothing like what I envisaged back then, but I love it.
Awesome advice as usual. Though it d also be kind of fun to learn about what Alex ended up doing. One of the things I love about your videos is that you have a much more realistic idea of the word "affordable" than some... Well, maybe realistic is the proper term, but you at least back up your logic with some financial numbers. By the way, the thumbnail used for the JBL L100 video was what turned me on to your channel. Keep being awesome.
I have had about 3 different systems before i become settled.It is always a thrill to see and hear new speakers, receivers etc..You know after years of buying , listening, research in looking for thee final system...you know when you have arrived with thee system of your choice.Do your research, find a friend or proffessional person that you can trust their opinion.Dont rush into anything that you think it might work for me.Get it home and find disappointment..You have to listen to what your system that you want..take your time, can i afford it, i like it for its features...saying I CAN LIVE WITH THIS.Good luck on finding your system.
I purchased a small class-d mini amp about a year ago that drives small bookshelves pretty well. I think these are a great option for starting into a stereo setup. These also allow you to put a system pretty much anywhere you can set up the speakers.
Some speakers and components from the 80’s -90’s would be the most effective way to break into the real “stereo “ space without spending a lot of money. A used Oynko receiver and a set of kenwood speakers would be like 100 bucks from any auction site or local junk store, pawn shop etc and would destroy any Bluetooth speaker. Or a lot of entry level “hifi” gear currently sold for much more. 🧐
Sure, but when you're new to this thing, and don't know a lot about it, how do you tell the good stuff from the POS stuff? How do you determine that the product is defect free, or might have an issue maybe not detectable with a quick demo, but could show up later? How do you even audition the stuff to make sure it actually works?
You got to get out there educate yourself find others that have systems and hang out at record stores and places that sell audio gear ask questions... listen and trust your ears.
I’m 34 years old and I have been listening to music in 2ch stereo since I was about 14 years old. Started off with my father’s old early 1980’s Technics system, and I loved it! When I turned 17 I got a part time job, and upgraded my stereo gear by getting second hand equipment, which I still have most of it. A few years later I upgraded to Dolby Digital surround sound, then my next upgrade after that was a digital receiver with HDMI for all my AV equipment, which I’m still using now. My Yamaha RX-V565 7.1ch receiver is now 10 years old, and I don’t think I ever used it to it’s full capacity. I have always been into music from a very young age, and now my love for music is even bigger. I’m looking at going back to a 2ch system, but want something that’s going to give me the WOW! factor. I know this sounds vague, but there’s no other way for me to describe it. It’s hard to really decide on what I want or what to consider, when all the decent Hifi stores are on the other side of town to me.
Ben Krake wow will cost you $1500... you can get the performance for $500 but the other $1000 will give you the aesthetic quality. LS50s are beautiful speakers. The Focal Arias are quite stunning as well. Spend $1000 on speakers and $500 or so dollars on an integrated amplifier. You won’t be disappointed and you won’t be able to afford to change it :)
Rick Bradshaw that $1500 is that US dollars? If so for me, that $1500 will be more like $2000-$2300 AUS! 🙂 I have looked at many speakers that range from $700.00 to $1600.00, but never thought about the KEF LS-50’s because they are about $2000.00AUS, which is pretty pricey.
The law of diminishing returns kicks in around $500 USD with well selected components. Think of audio gear like nice watches... sure there are watches that have the highest level of accuracy but they all tell the time :)
Paradigm's A2 Shift powered speakers are incredible. They blow Audio Engines speakers out of the water and will put a fat smile on your face as they have mine for years and years to come. Back when I got them they were 800$ a pair but nowadays you can get a pair for 400$ online.
I believe one modest way to get one's feet wet is to buy used, Ken Kantor-era (before Recoton or Jensen, especially when the speakers were still American-made) NHT Super Ones, or even the A450 Super Zeros from eBay (larger speakers cost too much to ship). These speakers were built like tanks and sound quite good (and image well) for the very low price one will pay. Use Dayton Ssmb24 speaker stands from Parts Express (they actually cost less than older stands). An integrated amp (who listens to AM or FM anymore?) such as the Integra (after many years of experimenting, I am impressed by Integra's performance for the money even though NAD is better) ADM-20.4 from Accessories4Less. Use Monoprice 14 AWG speaker wire. Add a Dayton subwoofer (both the 10" and 12" are surprisingly musical at their low price points) from Parts Express. Good-quality, used, component video cables from thrift stores make good subwoofer cables. I think this would make for a good introductory system costing under $500, and when one is ready to upgrade, all of these items are easy to resell on sites such as Craigslist (I have done this many times).
I think starting off smaller is better than over spending. I feel like there is plenty of options for each component well under 400 each. I think its best to go mix and match components at a store if possible and see if you dig the sound. My biggest advice is do not equate price tag to sound quality!
I have started watching your channel as I love my music and the items that make that music go. I grew up in the late 60's early 70's in my introduction to music. From the previous sentence I am of the age to purchase what I want, but with saying that I am firm believer in buying what you can afford as you will be happier for it in the end.. I enjoy the modern era equipment, but I am addicted to the sound of the Kenwoods, Sansui's, Pioneers, & Marantz's of the 70's. The amber lit, fire place having room with acoustics to sit and listen to my vinyl and relax & chillin' with a couple of fingers of Glenfidditch with that smell of ozone in the air. There are only a few things in this world that I feel would top that moment in time. Thanx for carrying the love of high end sound to the modern era. Take care and keep it up.
I built my system up mainly from used bits, I bought an original Mission Cyrus 1 back in the early 1980’s and a pair of Diamonds! My next purchase was a refurbished tape deck, I then stumbled on a used Pink Triangle turntable, for a bargain price back in 1985. I now have a Naim/Kudos system, the PT is still working well, albeit with a modded RB300 arm, I also have a March DAC, which I use as a Roon endpoint. It has been an interesting journey, I might be doing more upgrades to my PT, but I am very happy with my system, my PT sounded Majical against a Linn LP12 majik! It has took me 35 years to build up my system, it has being an interesting journey
Jooce81 totally agree I have one....paired with JBL Studio 530BK which I got on sale and a Klipsch Subwoofer I had in another system.... fits the bill for great sound at a modest-ish price
I have one paired with Wharfedale Denton speakers and I love it. It's a great combo that will hold you over for years while saving up for something big.
Got the Outlaw 2160 mark 2 a week ago,paired with Q Acoustics 3050 floor standers. Right now it sounds like shit. Hoping after a decent burnin for better. It’s just for a great room we use occasionally so it’s no big deal. However My bedroom has a new Willenston R8 amp paired with Elac 2 Uni Fi 5.2 bookshelve speakers that after about 8o hours of runtime sound freaking incredible. They leave me in awe when trumpets play.
I started with a Cambridge Audio integrated twenty years ago. My sister appreciated it when I fell down the rabbit whole as she inherited all my old gear as it was upgraded.
Thank you for this video. I’m so happy my plans for my coming setup with just a turntable and active speakers is what you recommend. The world of audio can feel super daunting at first, and your advice helps a lot
Paradigm Monitor SE Atom (better off axis listening for parties or entertaining) or Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ (better on axis listening for personal listening) with a Yamaha A-S301 and a powered subwoofer. Should cost you around $800-$900. Heck... buy a decent powered sub used and save a few extra bucks. That is a good setup that won't break your bank, and you will be happy for a long time with the parts.
It's hard to recommend an audiophile system. You have to consider the size of the room, and acoustics. No reason to spend 10's of thousands of dollars if you don't have plans to do any acoustic treatment when needed. Once you got the room in order, buy speakers that will fit the room. If you have too big or too small speakers, it won't sound right. Next up is to demo the suitable speaker alternatives, and pick the speaker-pair that gives you the best price/performance ratio. Ask the store for amp recommendations to match with the speakers, the AMP must complement the speakers weaknesses sonically. More power is better, bigger sweetspot and future proof if you want to get bigger speakers later. And it gets the maxium potential out of your speakers. This is the right way to do it in my opinion.
Robbinsffxi if you’ve ever looked at the measurements, all amps are easily within +/-0.1 dB across the audible range and beyond in both directions. No speaker at any price point us within +/-3 dB. A few exotic, expensive, badly designed speakers have crazy impedance curves that make them difficult to drive at high levels without distortion, but as long as you avoid those, any decent amp does as well as impressive looking monoblocks with their huge capacitor banks. Hi-fi is more mythology than reality. Cables are a scam as well. Use lamp wires for the speakers and ordinary, wimpy-looking signal “cables” and get better speakers instead. Buy the speakers used. It’s not very common for speakers to have intermittent performance issues, if they are damaged in any meaningful way you will discover it upon test. Just make sure you don’t test only at low sound levels, since even a damaged speaker may actually sound pretty good at moderate levels. (Another clue about how much bs flies around; if you’ve listened to speakers at a friends place for a while, and then discovered to your surprise that the domes have been totally deformed - usually by a child - you should start to doubt all the talk in the ad about the precise shape of their unique domes!) Before the believers start telling me how it is and cables matter and your other religious dogma, please know that James Randi has an open challenge that’s been standing for over a decade. Anyone who can tell, in a properly controlled, double-blind test, the difference between any high-end (so marketed) speaker cable and his cheap Monster cable gets one million dollars, plus the bragging rights. Strangely enough, equipment reviewers and manufacturers and distributors and hi-fi enthusiasts aren’t queueing up with their golden ears, despite the chance of succeeding by pure chance (guess wildly and get it right).
dojohansen123 I’m trying to figure out if you are arguing against me or not haha. I think for beginners, buying second hand is not a good solution. But if you know what to look for, based on experience, I think it’s a good thing. About cables, I’ve had different cables demonstrated, where I could hear a difference. But when the cable quality is up to a certain point, it doesn’t matter anymore. Lamp cable will do the job, no doubt about it.
Excellent advice. It is very easy to get carried away with this and most hobbies. I would also add some of the direct sales speaker brands to the list but for the novice just starting out the major brands are a safe place to start. The Sony core series bookshelf speakers have received a lot of praise since they came out and are well within most people’s budget especially when on sale as they usually are around the major holidays in the US.
Pretty newb here, but I am loving audio technica turntable (bluetooth model but rarely use the bluetooth capability for obvious reasons) paired with those same white Kanto YU6s (considering a 6" sub yet but not sure i need it in the room I am using). The whole set-up is so simple that even my 8 year old can walk into the room, power things on, pull out her Taylor Swift vinyl records and play records that sound just fine to us (and clearly much better than listening to music through our various Alexas, Bluetooth speakers streamed from phone, little refrigerator top Sony unit with external speakers, etc.) I'm sure someday I will upgrade the whole system because when I get into a hobby I enjoy I usually get a little crazy (do not look at my bikes in the garage or all associated gear), but when I do I know a little girl who will use this set-up in her own space...
Great advice. I started with a pair of Klipsch R-15PM speakers because they gave me easy connections without needed the receiver/amplifier. This was to replace a soundbar. I then added a sub which was easy because of the sub output on the R-15PM. My system has evolved from that base point. I now have 5.1.2 home theater, but composed of budget used Klipsch Synergy lines. I've listened to Forte IIIs and want to get those in the future, paired with something like the NR1200. I agree with your advice because I was always thinking HT to start, but realized I enjoy good old stereo much more than expected. It's an evolution. Now that I have a better idea of what I like/want, that big purchase of "nicer" equipement feels much better and something I can work towards.
A good affordable start up system is something along the lines of this: - Schiit components (separates) - Yamaha AS-801, AS-1100 - Yamaha RN-803 (great all in one receiver but questionable phono section) - Sony SS CS5, Triangle Borea BR03, Klipsch RP600M (great entry level) - Harbeth P3ESR, KEF LS50, Dynaudio etc (if wanna spend a bit more) 😬
I run my Orbit through a separate preamp to a pair of powered Edifier book shelf speakers with about 3 feet of left/right speaker separation. This sounds great to me as I finally have the TT and PA on a separate surface than the speakers. This is the best my set up has ever been, and literally the only thing I changed was placement as I was cramming it all on top of a Kallax shelf because I had no room living in apartments. I have a cork platter mat on the way. This will be the first upgrade to my TT in six years. So, I agree with what you said. But I'd say make even simpler changes that require less money first. I think most are victims of spacial circumstance, you only have a set amount of room for your set up. Figuring out the best placement is key before spending the money on higher end equipment. Once you've figured that out I'd shoot for half the cost of what you suggested as your low end options. That's a ton of money for something that no one besides the person that spent the money is going to notice or point out.
I put together a system for a small music room ( approximately 9x12). Other than the technics 1200 I already had, I only spent around $550 and it sounds great. Yamaha r-s 500 reciever $ 200 used. Onkyo DX -C390 6 disc changer $129 new. Polk psw 10 sub woofer $100 new. 4 polk monitor 40's that I found used for $100. ( wired together in pairs) $529 total and it sounds really good. No desire to change anything.
It made a lot of sense at 11:30 last night... well put sir, and love the videos even when I’m often in the studio or pro environments. We all love our home systems! No matter the eclectic collection of gear!
So many good choices out there.. Yamaha, Emotiva, and Marantz make 2 channel integrated products for well under 400.00 Add an inexpensive blue ray player as a transport, and a pair of Pioneer towers {Andrew Jones designed) and you're on your way to great sound for very little money. Add Turntable if needed
Your suggestion is great. Stay away from separates ..look for integrated amp or receiver. But I I will look for good receiver . Now receiver has everything inside including good dac. But I would suggest one more tips. Before making any purchase, he must listen to the chosen receivers that will drive the chosen speakers first with his favourite songs...
Have you done a segment on room setup? I heard a well-known self-proclaimed audiophile the other day say that the best system will never sound good in the wrong room. He did not go on, however, to describe the right room. I make this suggestion (for a topic) somewhat reluctantly because it would seem to be the one factor over which a person has the least control. I’m not going to sell my house, for example, in order to find a better room. And, for me, I really only have one room from which to choose. But perhaps there are recommendations you might make as to how to work with what you have, even if it’s a less than ideal room. Just a thought. Thanks again for the great content - most helpful audio/stereo channel on RUclips, IMO.
Thanks you so much helps me to understand alot. I only bought a turn table and don't even have anything else and the choices and options are exhausting to understand
Some people out there are just looking for a simple & cheap bedroom turntable setup without having one of those all-in-one "briefcase" turntables, I recommend the $100 4" Edifier's. Surprisingly good for the size & cost.
This is great information that Andrew is giving here, he is explaining this from many different angles. I would suggest looking at NAD 316bee integrated amp or a Marantz equivalent like the 6005 or 7005 series. For speakers the Elac b6 version 200 dollars and maybe a Marantz even or 6000 series CD player it sounds like you have a turntable with the orbit so he would have a decent system without a lot of cost, well below the 4000 for the JBLs. This will allow him to see if it’s for him. I almost forgot I just saw a Marantz 7005 integrated and a 6005 streamer for sale for a little over 1000 dollars for both at Music Direct. It’s a great place to shop and you get 60 days to try out your stuff and if you don’t like it you can return it. 60 days is more than enough time to decide if it’s for you or not. All products that I mentioned are at Music Direct and some are demo or open box with the full manufacturers warranty and 60 day trial. No I don’t work for them, but I have been a customer for years. Set a budget for yourself and the components mentioned you could get into for 1500 dollars to 1800 dollars and you are basically all in. Like Andrew said don’t start out big because you limit your growth especially if your resources are limited and if you don’t like it you will take a beating if you try to sell it. Good luck and great topic Andrew as usual. Andrew you got to get down to Axpona when you can.
Great advice Andrew, I am new to the world of hifi but have been following channels like yours for a while. I have been using Sonos speakers for sometime now but wanted to experience something different so sold of my stuff to buy a used pair of Mission 794 speakers, I planned to use them as a stereo pair but found some matching centre and surrounds so they will be used in the living room for general music listening plus movies. I will be using an AV receiver for now but plan to buy a good stereo amp to integrate with the living room receiver for music only. When I used Sonos they were great to use and sounded good and I had no clue how to setup speakers, but I am slowly learning and starting my journey into hifi, better late than never.
Don’t let go of the Sonos speakers. They are better than most audiophiles will admit. I’m keeping mine. I even invested in their sub. It’s a great bedroom system.
Does Alex have a proper hifi store nearby? The first rig I bought was based on what the guys in the shop told me. The first time I went, the guy asked my my budget and told me to come back with 5/6 CD's or records and he would set up the listening room. No sell on the first date. Let the guys in the store geek out if you can. Budget for cables at 10-15% of your spend and budget for stands if you're not going to buy floor standers. Spend approx. twice on your speakers what you pay for your integrated amp If you go with 1K (excluding the stands and cables) you are very much in business and you will get an amazing experience that will last you years. The only other suggestion after that is to hide your wallet.
Andrew Robinson you should contact PS Audio and do a review on the sprout. It’s been done a bunch of times by other reviewers but maybe you can bring a different perspective to it...the Dac and phono stage are pretty good... much better than you find in most budget integrated amps.and it has a pre out I believe
1000 dollar amp for first system is not a good idea... I think starting of like he said, with Yamaha or something and a pair of speakers worth of a few hundred, and upgrade from there, used market is great for beginners
Cannot agree more, your advice is exactly the way any beginner should go, certainly. And its the same no matter the passion your starting on. Take it slowly, go soft with it. P.s. If you don't want the stress of passive speakers and still have fantastic sound, I've heard some days ago a pair of Edifier S3000 Pro. Active speakers with lots of connectivity. All in one product, hifi certified with incredible sound and build quality. Absolute bargain for the money with no compromise on sound.
I think you're wrong about $200 being better than that Marshall. The speaker itself is $100 (sure it has other electronics), but it's honestly one of the best single-speaker devices I've heard like that. My sister was in the same situation, Bluetooth'ing to a Marshall Acton from her TV. She hated switching to a $200 soundbar with sub because it sounded dinky even though the stereo imaging was better. I helped her grab a receiver and hooked up a couple Polk bookshelf speakers and a sub. Cost a lot more than $200 (mainly 'cause of the receiver). This is a pretty specific scenario caused by the Marshall speaker sounding so good.
Politely??!! I’m an audiophile, dude! I don’t know how to be polite! 😁 Really good advice! Very practical approach to starting out. I recognize that I’m late to this party given when you published this video, however, there may be others like me that just recently discovered your excellent channel. One area that wasn’t addressed is the listening room. That can take an entire episode or three, but again, just the basics. Small, medium, large room. There is no one solution that fits all. Thoughts?
A neighbour gave me a set of Mission 73's, I then bought my first Amp and NAD 302 for £50. I'm happy. I am a music producer but have never had a separate hi-fi system, its a little bit different. Mission M73's can be picked up for less than £100 (They are fromt he early 00's) on ebay.... the sound is brilliant.
I've gone through so many budget combinations over the last 20 years, and I've finally settled on a unique combination IMHO. A vintage quad 33 preamp fed into the power section of an Audiolab 8200a integrated (the 8200a has a dire preamp but amazing power section). This is then run into some Kef Concertos in which I've installed some modern crossovers. I like to see the system as a modular thing where you tinker as much as you want with individual pieces
First thing is look at the Room you plan to put your system in . Were are you going to place your speakers , Your Amp , Turntable . If you going to need to put your speakers in a bookshelf or close to a wall front firing ports work the best . You need to think about these things . Where you place your speakers have a big effect on the sound you get out of your system .
What an exciting time to be entering into this world, for me it’s been a long one with life dictating priorities where money had to be spent. I agree with your advice buy a decent amp that will cater for future reasonable speaker upgrades. Trust your ears and use good retail outlets to put various elements together for you (mix and match). You don’t have to eat the elephant in one go! This is a journey and wish you luck. This has been a great episode - great advice👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻.
I went from sound bars to an entry-level 7.1 tsx-polk system and AVR in 2014 and I'm just now starting 2023 with an entry level 7.2.4 focal system with emotiva amps and separate processor. I love movies and TV but have never been an audio file, so I'm wondering if I went too far this time as I'm starting to set everything up. But it looks cool and I'm super excited, so I'll find out soon if it was worth it.
Great advice! When I started out back in the early eighties and knowing I wanted a fairly good two channel stereo system. I had very little money to spend. Can't remember what I payed, but it wasn't much. So I found a used Marantz 2265B intagrated amp with a Teac cassett player ( no CD players yet) and Cerwin Vegas for speakers. So not bad for starting out. Later in the late eighties I upgraded to a Denon intagrated amp and Paraidgm SE9 speakers with a Philips CD player. My son still has that system today! Mid nineties I stepped it up by buying a VAC PA 100 100 KT88 amp with ARC LS 15 tube pre amp. I choose Paraidgm bookshelves speakers with their servo 15 sub woofer Not exspensive, but easy to drive and full range Ive had many full range speakers since then. But just recently I bought the Magnepan. 7's and for the money ($1,400) very hard to beat if you are after inner detail and sound stage! A cheaper option is the Magnepan LRS for $650!! But there are so many economic good sounding speakers out there! Keep in mind the Maggie's need space and will devour amplifiers with little power/ current. As for buying used its a very good option. Knowing my Maggie's needs lots of watts/current I found a used Spectron musical MK ll class D amp for $900 shipped to my door. This beast weights 52lbs! & output is 500watts@8ohm @4ohms 1,200watts@2ohms and will do 65 amps for 500 milliseconds I love the way this amp sounds with my Maggie's!! I just love it and have my fingers crossed it lasts for awhile
I'm kind of surprised you didn't mention buying used as a good option. I don't fancy myself an audiophile, but I got into audio by just playing around with odds and ends I found at the local thrift store. Then, after a little knowledge gleaned fom the internet, I graduated to craigslist. One can put together a pretty decent setup on a thin dime.
Check Craigslist, I found a number of people in my area who buy and sell equipment all the time. Beyond being able to buy some good sound gear at a reasonable price they already put some pieces together that seem to pair really well. I got my whole system for like $300 and I am pretty sure that it sounds better than anything I could buy new for under $1K.
Ebay has huge variety of integrated amps, a/v amps... in my opinion a 2nd hand integrated amp and a pair of working order speakers will be a good entry level option that doesnt cost a weeks wage. If you choose quality brand names and check the condition carefully from photos you could have a decent starting point that will not break the bank.
Andrew, a breath of fresh air in the fog of all the internet hoopla, great video. I agree with your advice but would like to add to it. If the listener purchased the Yamaha basic stereo receiver that has built-in Bluetooth and also the FM tuner, they would have three sources of music. The turntable, FM Stereo, and the ability to stream music via Bluetooth opening up many genres of music that they would have to purchase separately as albums. Last time, I looked they were about $130 US from multiple vendors. I think your price range in speakers you suggested is spot on also as there are many great options from Klipsch(biased), Wharfedale, Polk, JBL, and many others. Keep up the great videos!
I know I'm late to the game here, but this is an invaluable video. I used to "chase the dragon" and realized "the law of diminishing returns" is HUGE in audiaphilia. My comments are a little different than Drew's, but are along the same lines. This is a very expensive "hobby" and the most important thing is that you get what you want when it comes to features. Those Kanto speakers are excellent. The difference between them and the $4k ones combined with an amp and preamp is much MUCH smaller than the difference between the Kanto's and a $1k streaming speaker. The audio world is wrought with crazy differences like this. I bought a pair of Fluance Ai40's. They blew me away. So I picked up a pair of Ai60s's because I could add a sub to them. The highs are fatiguing, while the overall sound is more rounded. So I added a sub. Problem solved. I couldn't be more happy with this $600 system.
Emotiva TA-100. Labeled as an "Integrated Amp" but has a tuner. Moving coil and moving magnet phone stage, bluetooth, built in DAC, sub out, specs are virtually identical to the 316BEE. Same price.
Both are excellent choices just starting out. Klipsch RP600M speakers are just over $400 now. Add the lowest price NAD CD player and you will be set for many years.
I probably wouldn't advise Cantos because they seem really to prefer being in near field. I'd probably suggested powered KEF 50s. They're attractive, placed on stands they actually look pretty high end, they're way cheaper than the JBLs yet they can fill a room with nice sound even at low volume. In fact I'd say they can very well be all you will need for the forseeable future even if your system grows to include new sources like a network streamer or CD player. Unless you get bitten by audiophilia and then nothing is ever good enough for very long. I have had the same (reasonably priced) speakers for 19 years and found no reason to upgrade them - because I still enjoy them as much as I did when I got them.
I'm a well-satisfied U-Turn Orbit Plus turntable owner. Like yourself I find it provides good value for the money but the Pluto phono preamp limits the sound quality. However it's good enough to get started with. The $99 Schiit Modi 3 DAC has been widely recommended and I agree. It provides very good digital sound from any device with a USB port. I use the $49 Schiit SYS to switch between these and control the volume.
hmm.. i like how this dude isnt just giving audiophile knowledge but audiophile experience. his advice isnt just for instant gratification but looks ahead long term, as well as considering real issues like budget and fall out rate. it’s like helping people enjoy the most out the hobby while avoiding mistakes alonh the way. and it deals with heart issues like impatience etc to avoid making dumb decisions. we all need that..
experience = knowledge.
Yes, what I like about him, he's into conceptual thinking about audio which leaves me for dead!
I've been looking into changing my Bose Sound Bar to an HiFi system for some weeks now. It is a big change. I am not an audiophile but music is a big part of my life and I want to improve my experience.
I've been discussing with vendors, reading blogs, watching videos. I feel I just received the best advice from you today. Thank you, it really helped in my decision process.
I like the humbleness of how you approach this subject. 0 pretentious attitude. You have been to the upper levels qnd still relate 100% to someone with zero knowledge in the field. Great job sir.
Andrew, as a very experienced music lover and long time audiophile I greatly enjoy your reasoned and sensible approach to newbies in this wonderful hobby. You have a great way of explaining complex issues in an easy to understand way, something I always tried to strive for when I sold audio. My interest in music and audio started at 7 years old (thanks, Mom & Dad!), my ears have been a blessing and a curse at times, lol! The quality of gear at very affordable prices is truly astonishing these days; no one needs be scared or shamed they can't afford to spend thousands on a quality system! Great series!
Let's put this out there: if you want an integrated amp and stereo speakers, the vintage market is a great thing for poor folks like me. I have a nakamichi RE-3 (integrated amp with built in phono preamp), Technics SL-1300 turntable, shure srh440 headphones, and pioneer cs-G515 speakers. I've been happy with that a looong time, and I think it would cost a pretty budget to do any better with the stereo.
I did have to get the amp serviced eventually, it just needed certain bits cleaned out, nbd. A lot of this stuff doesn't really wear out, so if you can't afford to support the new stuff right away, you don't have to.
My "big upgrade" of the last few years was getting a schiit fulla2 for my desk 😅
I would add a wide band graphic equaliser to that set up as an upgrade but it still sounds very nice 👍
Got my first turntable today, it came as a bundle on amazon with speakers. They are Presonus Eris speakers. And that’s all I have. The Audio Technica LP60X has a preamp built in, and the speakers are Active ones. Got everything hooked up and the sound is amazing. Only spent $200 on the whole thing. But for my first I love it and will eventually upgrade. Once I understand this world I got into ☺️
Psshht! There’s no point in upgrading. Just listen to the music. Just don’t get caught up in the hype of endless audio reviews.
Great little setup. When you'll start considering upgrading, consider changing the cartridge first. Getting to a better cartridge will go a long way so a small investment. Also, search on RUclips there are a lot of video tutorials on how to calibrate your cartridge properly (even if it's sounds fine out of the box, doesn't hurt to check it is properly set), this will also prevent unnecessary wear on your records.
Oh no.... Take the blue pill now and escape this 'evil' whirlpool! 😂
Just kidding, enjoy your music, that's an awesome setup.
He is absolutely right. I just got my first setup: B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers, Cambridge audio AXR85 Integrated Amp and I added to that an iFi Zen DAC. It sounds amazing compared to all the soundbars/mono things I heard before. If you are new to this like me PLEASE check some stuff about room placement. I had terrible almost non existent bass because I was sitting in the middle of a square room getting all those reflections cancelling the sound. Once I moved my chair and speakers to a decent position the sound came to life.
Family members often have stereo equipment that's sitting around. Start with free and work your way up. That's how I got started all those years ago.
Douglas Milewski and now you have a amazing Bose system yaaay you
@@MichelLinschoten So mean hahahahaha
Doesn't really matter the brand, per se. We all start somewhere. Some of us start with inherited gear or refer to existing gear/gear of someone else's as a baseline of where to go from there. Point really is to just start somewhere. Great commentary Doug!
This is so true. Also look on craigslist. A lot of the time people are trying to get rid of this type of stuff when they get older or if they move and don't really know what it's worth or don't care.
Estate sales are good too.
Andrew, I love how you explained each audio component and provided a simple approach to Alex on how he should think, by sharing your professional experience from your perspective.
I’m a salesman at a local stereo shop in Mesa, AZ and I haven’t even finished the whole video and already know this is gonna help me tremendously with sales. ❤️ RUclips needs more people like you!
Man, I really like the way you think things through. This is so interesting and real world. Thanks.
Thank you so much your comment means a lot!
Kevin Kelsey exactly my thoughts on this video. Thanks for the video
Andrew, you gave great advice. One of the things people forget to take account is the size of the room. Great floor speakers can sound horrible in a small home office. Likewise expensive high end bookshelf speakers will sound horrible if overdriven to fill a large room with sound. Starting with the modest system and grow from there is always sound advice than to swing for the fences and end up frustrated with a system than is seldom used.
Such smoothness in explaining things and opening up ideas to newborns and letting them see that money wasted is not the best thing.
Years ago I started my hi-fi journey with $500 Audioengine 5 active speakers and a $100 DAC connected to my computer. Loved the sound. Over the years I gradually upgraded to a $10,000 system, that includes both digital and analog-front-end. Each upgrade solved a specific aspect of music reproduction I wanted to improve, so each time the result was noticeable and very satisfying. I never thought about upgrading until I felt I wanted to improve something in my system. One of the huge “upgrades” was finding perfect speaker placement, far away from the wall behind. That moment I felt like my system jumped 10x in value, the improvement was incredible. My current system sounds almost perfect to me and I am not planning the next upgrade until I become more experienced in critical listening and learn how to appreciate more expensive gear.
You are wise young padawan!
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Lots of people upgrade and sell perfectly good 2nd hand hifi equip on-line. Just because its 20 years old doesn't mean that it does not deliver. My amp is 10 years old (budget Marantz) my tuner and Cd player are around the same and my speakers (all budget purchases at the time Marantz amp, tuner, cdplayer Tannoy R1 bookshelf and Revolver 350- inherited from me da- floorstanders and Aiwa turntable-my wife bought about 10 years ago).
This system sounds perfect (turntable coming to the end of days though).
I'm gonna upgrade speaker cable as this was budget csmbridge audio cable when i got it. Otherwise a ok.
You'll definitely get fantastic sounding hifi 2nd hand and working great. Best of luck and enjoy
I love how down to earth, logical, and sincere your videos are. Great advice by the way! 😉👍
Thank you
Recently went from vintage 70's speakers and amp gifted from family to my first high(er) end self bought setup. Spend a little bit more than I intended, but glad I did. Got myself a pair of B&W 707s2 speakers along with a NAD c368 (incl bluos module) integrated stereo amp. For most audiophiles this must definately be considered a 'beginner setup', To me this sounds like heaven and is exactly what I was looking for. This feels like an amazing start of my journey without ever regretting spending around €2000,- on my setup.
I can only wonder if I would have felt the same if I would have spend twice as much on my first setup. I doubt it to be honest. The amount spend and the level of enjoyment are perfectly in balance for me!
I was happy to hear you mention ELAC speakers, their B6 2.0 is by far the best sounding 6" bookshelf speakers I've heard, and I spent a good year shopping around. I paired them with a vintage Marantz 2230, and the combo has a beautiful marriage of vintage warmth & modern clarity.
Jeff Krawczyk I actually experienced the opposite, I think Andrew Jones elacs are grossly overrated. Different expectations I guess, the true old elacs with the jet tweeters and 4pi super tweeters were high end speakers. Loved those, Andrew Jones did a great job on his elac budget design. But it does sound as a budget speaker imho.
Not bad!! But not great by any means..
I would buy a infinity QE over an elac any day. But I like ribbon tweeters, so taste is a factor to I guess.
@@MichelLinschoten same here.....had a B5 and sold it after 5 months. Nothing sounded good on those speakers.
Hello Andrew. It is very easy to get caught up with the latest technology . I know I have. One recent example is my Interest in audio receivers from the 1970s era. This began after I started listening to my albums on my stereo system. It had been 10 years or more since it was used. I have realized that what I have does not need to be replaced.
I am looking forward to enjoying hearing the music from my original stereo system.
- Nikko NR750
- Technics SL-QD22
- Advent Baby 2 speakers
- Sony DVP- S7700
- Onkyo TA-RW255
Keep up the good work and looking forward to future audio videos.
Exactly why I recommend the Emotiva TA-100 to start. Integrated amp with preouts. It allowed me to add an A300 amp later when I bought some big boy speakers in the T1+. Love this setup
Great lesson for new-comers to vinyl, Andrew. Terrific insight.
I've been a long-time vinyl fan (decades-long), and I'm HAPPY about the re-disovery of vinyl. I've even sent a Fluance turntable with their powered speakers to two of my family members with some LPs that connect them with past family music.
Fluance offers turntables + powered speakers starting below $400, and these are very good starter systems. I presently own their RT85T turntable and their Reference series 5.1 Surround-Sound speaker system, but I've been building-up my audio system for a long time.
DISCLAIMER: I'm not affiliated with Fluance in any way. I mention the company for reference purposes, and to help new-comers find an affordable way to begin listening to LPs.
Music matters.
Keep up the good job, Andrew,.
From a experienced audiophile, I truly appreciate the ground up perspective and echo the prior comments on the no quick fix type of response. Music and stereo is more about the experience. Most with the stereo gene recall the first time they heard music through a great system. Thank you for taking the time to help navigate this worthy journey! Keep it up.
A RUclipsr not selling products but good advice is always refreshing. Well said!
I love this video. I watched everyone you made and I have to say that this is really good advise for someone who has not a real idea about what to do in terms of purchasing an hifi system. I'm not going to name names but there are channels out there that can make someone feel like if they have not right to listen to music in a decent way if they don't spend 10 grand minimum or make them fell like idiots for not be able to recognise what stereo or stage image or whatever the thing is related to the expert listener. There is always a way to tech people the good ways in life and you just did it here. Well done Andrew. I'm sure that will make some fella happy out there.
This is great advice. I live in a place where it is a wasteland for audio gear. Anything high end price is equivalent to a one acre of land here. Local currency worth nothing when it comes to USD exchange and that makes everything sky high expensive. Even something like 400$ is very expensive here. I began my journey few years back with a pair of made in japan marantz LS850 tower speakers (nobody heard of), found them in a second hand electronics shop. I have been powering them with thrift store receivers until i recently sold everything except for the speakers because they have the sound i like. Now im planning on moving up to a NAD amplifier. All my sources are digital.
This new found love for audio gear has led me towards headphones which i made my primary listening space using a HD6XX + little dot mk2 + fx audio dac x6.
Like he says start small...! Then you will figure out completely different things you might like. Like myself from speakers to headphones.
I don't even see a need for me to upgrade any further.
Thanks a lot for your video sir.
Great advice! Audio is a hobby for most of us here. You enjoy the hobby, or any other hobby, from learning and making improvement. I have a rich friend who spent $200k to have his setup professionally done. Yeah, it sounds amazing. But he gets bored quickly. The process is more important than the result.
Like building LEGO's
you touched briefly on a mistake that I made - didn't buy an AVR that had pre-outs and now regret that very much.
Wow, I’m half way through and after watching TONS of audio videos, this is one of the best. This is perfect for a “half-pregnant” audiophile. You have a new sub.
I've been doing this since I was 17, I'll be 62 in December, music was always important to me. I set each of my sons off with a basic system. I've also helped some young people I worked with in Home depot to get started in audio. I would direct them to go listen first, usually at Best Buy they have some decent stuff. Then I'd select some used components from Ebay and we had a lot of success. Half of my system which is separates was purchased on Ebay. That's an option for those on a tight budget.
Good advice. I had Atoms for years that sounded fine. I got the itch for towers for more bass and volume. My setup was a Classe CAP151 integrated and Paradigm Studio Seven towers. What I came to realize is the louder it gets, not only do you need more space and headroom, but the room itself comes alive. I'm not rich and only have limited space and budget for (wife friendly)acoustic treatment. The system didn't come alive at reasonable volumes in my small space, but could rock your socks off. (Perhaps due to the vibration of the room). I now use a 60's HH Scott 272 tube integrated. I built small speaker cabinets on stands for a pair of Dayton Audio PS220-8 full range drivers. The sound is dynamic and lovely for acoustic jazz. I am able to send a center channel preamp out to the Classe to power two subs. I have plenty of adjustments with this setup and I no longer feel inclined to turn up volume for lack of involvement.
That coffee in the background probably has gone cold 😕
A couple of questions that I find very useful when choosing, or giving advice, on purchasing equipment are the following:
1. What kind of music are you listening to? Pop, rock, opera, hiphop, symphonies, hard rock, metal, folk music, instrumental, dubstep, disco, etc. Can you give some examples please?
2. What type of sound do you like? Heavy bass, powerful, lean, fine treble, dark, light, etc.
3. What is your level of interest in audio equipment? Do you have any previous experience?
4. How do you prefer to listen to your music? Do you prefer vinyl, CD or maybe streaming from Spotify?
A person asking for advice might have the following answers to the questions above: - "95% of the time I listen to 80's hard rock. Iron Maiden, Kiss, Judas Priest, Metallica and all that goodness. Some more metal like Pantera, Slayer and In Flames I also really like. Some rock, Bryan Adams and some Bruce Springsteen, sometimes a bit of pop like Madonna". - "I really like bass, I'm a basshead and want to feel the bass in the stomach and in the furniture, I have no neighbours so I like to turn the volume up quite a bit, just to get the physical sense of the music". "I'm not a total audio nerd, but I know what I like when I hear it and I have owned a preamp and poweramp before, but I focus on the music, not so much on the equipment. - "I like to play CDs, I'm old school that way. No streaming for me, thanks."
OK, so let's build on that. Let's skip the bookshelf speakers and the Martin Logans/Magnepans. Maybe in the ballpark of floor standing JBL, Klipsch, Cerwin Vega? Subwoofer? What do we need to drive that? An integrated 70W amp, like a NAD, Denon or maybe a receiver? We can also rule out any Bluetooth/multimedia setup. So with that as background, I find it much easier to get in the ballpark of equipment to buy. And yes, the example is me, except for the streaming part =)
Recently I picked up a middling Insignia (Best Buy house brand) AV receiver at a pawn shop for $60 and a pair pf B&W LCR600 S3 loudspeakers at a vintage shop for $200. The receiver needed a lot of cosmetic TLC and some contact cleaner, but it is fully functional (albeit without a remote) and can drive the B&Ws just fine as well as fill a void if my main AV receiver should ever need servicing. Along with an NAD 5000 CD player and an ADCOM ACE 515 power controller (both 30 years old) those have become my bedroom system, and it sounds better than probably 90% of the home stereo systems in America. You really don't have to spend a lot of money to get better than decent sound.
I've been thinking and I actually watched your video for a second time and my conclusion is if money is no object your savings account is stocked your retirement is well on its way and you won't miss the money then spend it but if you're on a budget like most of us then a $20 receiver and a pair of fisher speakers from the Goodwill will do for starters you can upgrade a little at a time as the money and the equipment come available in the meantime be happy with what you have and be thankful for what you get
I just helped a friend out with setting up a new system. I selected the KEF Q150s (massively on sale right now), Marantz NR1200 and a modest Def Tech sub to just fill the room. I also set up Sonos for whole house audio, hooked up his TV, a new Roku and connected his Blu-Ray and Phono for all the media. That Marantz is surprisingly strong.
Been an audiophile for years, I remember how I got started and the many mistake that I made.
First this video gave you and honest review, he and audiophile like many of us and he dosent look at you and wonder of how much dollars that you might be spending like the sales staff in the audio shop.
However being having less knowledge and tight budjet, you should also consider used equipment.....
Music have many genre, what is your prefered music. This will determine which speakers to go for.
Enviroment is important. Whether you intend to set up in a living room, bedroom or basement or others. The ideal space should be comfortable to you and whoelse is living with you. Speakers should idealy blent with the rest of your furniture.
Remember there is no perfect system setup. You are building the setup you peference is the upmost important. The sound should be to you liking. Others may have their opinion but goes with your own choice.
Hope you are happy and wellcome to the group.
Great video and good advice about not overspending instantly. I use(d) my computer for almost all of my listening, and the greatest change was when I went from speakers meant solely for computer use (Creative Inspire 5.1 or something; good speakers if you sit in a small space and perfectly at one place) to an amplifier with stereo speakers. It's like going from an old CRT television to a 4k 60" model: everything is basically still the same, but just bigger, better, and more detailed.
My advice? BUY USED!
I bought a used pair of Castle Winchesters $4K circa 1990 (adjusted to inflation 8K to 10K today) Paid $400. in absolute mint condition from the widow across the street. Yes this was a lucky buy, but deals exist every day.
I generally like the Emotiva brand for "bang of the buck" hifi equipment. You can get the TA-100 Integrated Amp, B1+ Bookshelf Speakers, SE8 Subwoofer and all the necessary cables for around than $1000.
Great advice! I’d also throw Vanatoo T0 and T1 out there as solid powered speaker options. After 25 years of falling down the rabbit hole of expensive speakers... I’m blown away at what $500 can get you now.
Very good and considered advice from Andrew, as always. The part that many inexperienced with any hobby should heed is the bit about starting smaller to see if you really need or want more. How many people have or at one time had a garage/attic full of the unused gear left over from hastily embarked upon new hobbies. Yard sales, pawn shops and Goodwill stores are full of exercise equipment, mountain bikes, paddle boards, musical instruments and yes, audio equipment. Whatever endeavor du jour the intrepid owner quickly tired of. Even when folks keep, say, their expensive DSLR and four lenses they often fall into the habit of using the cell phone because it's simply more convenient. So, starting on the smaller side can definitely be a money saver in the long run. Beyond that just remember that speakers always make the biggest difference in your sound. Get the speakers that sound best to you first. And for that you HAVE to listen in person. If don't have stores close enough to drive to then buy from a reputable (authorized dealer) with a good return policy.
Just a quick view of the Crutchfield website shows that currently you could get an Onkyo stereo receiver with two channel pre-outs for $400 or a Cambridge Audio stereo receiver without them but with a better power supply (theoretically) for the same price. Pair those with any offering from Elac, Polk, JBL, PSB or Wharfdale that you prefer for $200 to $500 a pair and for $$600 to $900 or less you are well on your way to a new level of audio enjoyment. Given you already have a turntable and the receivers have Bluetooth all you'd really need to add if desired is a CD player and a decent one can be had for $150 to $300 so now you're up to $1200 max. Add in a good powered sub from JBL, Polk or SVS and at most you're adding another $300 to $500. So now you're at $1700 on the high end and possibly as little as $1100 on the low end depending on what speaker, CD player and Sub you decided on. I know a lot of people out there would be very happy for the rest of their lives with a $1100 or so stereo system. You might be one of them which is why Andrews' advice to start small is so important.
If you have a computer, just plug a pair of active studio monitors. They don't cost much, there is no need for more gear and provide excellent sound quality.
I can see how it's tempting to throw all your money at something expensive right out of the gate to skip all the preamble, but I agree with Andrew: you don't even know what you like yet.
Here's an analogy: when I first decided I wanted to ride a bicycle to work I had all sorts of grand plans - super expensive (for me) mountain bikes, full carbon road bikes back when that was only just becoming a thing - I was convinced I needed to buy once and buy right. I'm so glad I didn't. Instead, I went from modest bike to modest bike, learning what I liked and how to fix things as I went. The bike I ride now is nothing like what I envisaged back then, but I love it.
Awesome advice as usual. Though it d also be kind of fun to learn about what Alex ended up doing. One of the things I love about your videos is that you have a much more realistic idea of the word "affordable" than some... Well, maybe realistic is the proper term, but you at least back up your logic with some financial numbers. By the way, the thumbnail used for the JBL L100 video was what turned me on to your channel. Keep being awesome.
I have had about 3 different systems before i become settled.It is always a thrill to see and hear new speakers, receivers etc..You know after years of buying , listening, research in looking for thee final system...you know when you have arrived with thee system of your choice.Do your research, find a friend or proffessional person that you can trust their opinion.Dont rush into anything that you think it might work for me.Get it home and find disappointment..You have to listen to what your system that you want..take your time, can i afford it, i like it for its features...saying I CAN LIVE WITH THIS.Good luck on finding your system.
I purchased a small class-d mini amp about a year ago that drives small bookshelves pretty well. I think these are a great option for starting into a stereo setup. These also allow you to put a system pretty much anywhere you can set up the speakers.
Some speakers and components from the 80’s -90’s would be the most effective way to break into the real “stereo “ space without spending a lot of money. A used Oynko receiver and a set of kenwood speakers would be like 100 bucks from any auction site or local junk store, pawn shop etc and would destroy any Bluetooth speaker. Or a lot of entry level “hifi” gear currently sold for much more. 🧐
BOB BRADLEY hi bob🖐
Hello! :)
Sure, but when you're new to this thing, and don't know a lot about it, how do you tell the good stuff from the POS stuff? How do you determine that the product is defect free, or might have an issue maybe not detectable with a quick demo, but could show up later? How do you even audition the stuff to make sure it actually works?
You got to get out there educate yourself find others that have systems and hang out at record stores and places that sell audio gear ask questions... listen and trust your ears.
I’m 34 years old and I have been listening to music in 2ch stereo since I was about 14 years old. Started off with my father’s old early 1980’s Technics system, and I loved it! When I turned 17 I got a part time job, and upgraded my stereo gear by getting second hand equipment, which I still have most of it. A few years later I upgraded to Dolby Digital surround sound, then my next upgrade after that was a digital receiver with HDMI for all my AV equipment, which I’m still using now. My Yamaha RX-V565 7.1ch receiver is now 10 years old, and I don’t think I ever used it to it’s full capacity. I have always been into music from a very young age, and now my love for music is even bigger. I’m looking at going back to a 2ch system, but want something that’s going to give me the WOW! factor. I know this sounds vague, but there’s no other way for me to describe it. It’s hard to really decide on what I want or what to consider, when all the decent Hifi stores are on the other side of town to me.
Ben Krake wow will cost you $1500... you can get the performance for $500 but the other $1000 will give you the aesthetic quality. LS50s are beautiful speakers. The Focal Arias are quite stunning as well. Spend $1000 on speakers and $500 or so dollars on an integrated amplifier. You won’t be disappointed and you won’t be able to afford to change it :)
Rick Bradshaw that $1500 is that US dollars? If so for me, that $1500 will be more like $2000-$2300 AUS! 🙂 I have looked at many speakers that range from $700.00 to $1600.00, but never thought about the KEF LS-50’s because they are about $2000.00AUS, which is pretty pricey.
Ben Krake check out the Kef Q150s or Q350s and the Yamaha integrated amplifiers. The WXA-50 measures extremely well
Yeah that’s USD. The US dollar goes much farther :)
The law of diminishing returns kicks in around $500 USD with well selected components. Think of audio gear like nice watches... sure there are watches that have the highest level of accuracy but they all tell the time :)
Paradigm's A2 Shift powered speakers are incredible. They blow Audio Engines speakers out of the water and will put a fat smile on your face as they have mine for years and years to come. Back when I got them they were 800$ a pair but nowadays you can get a pair for 400$ online.
I believe one modest way to get one's feet wet is to buy used, Ken Kantor-era (before Recoton or Jensen, especially when the speakers were still American-made) NHT Super Ones, or even the A450 Super Zeros from eBay (larger speakers cost too much to ship). These speakers were built like tanks and sound quite good (and image well) for the very low price one will pay. Use Dayton Ssmb24 speaker stands from Parts Express (they actually cost less than older stands). An integrated amp (who listens to AM or FM anymore?) such as the Integra (after many years of experimenting, I am impressed by Integra's performance for the money even though NAD is better) ADM-20.4 from Accessories4Less. Use Monoprice 14 AWG speaker wire. Add a Dayton subwoofer (both the 10" and 12" are surprisingly musical at their low price points) from Parts Express. Good-quality, used, component video cables from thrift stores make good subwoofer cables. I think this would make for a good introductory system costing under $500, and when one is ready to upgrade, all of these items are easy to resell on sites such as Craigslist (I have done this many times).
I think starting off smaller is better than over spending. I feel like there is plenty of options for each component well under 400 each. I think its best to go mix and match components at a store if possible and see if you dig the sound. My biggest advice is do not equate price tag to sound quality!
Your last point is RIGHT ON. Thanks for watching!
I have started watching your channel as I love my music and the items that make that music go. I grew up in the late 60's early 70's in my introduction to music. From the previous sentence I am of the age to purchase what I want, but with saying that I am firm believer in buying what you can afford as you will be happier for it in the end.. I enjoy the modern era equipment, but I am addicted to the sound of the Kenwoods, Sansui's, Pioneers, & Marantz's of the 70's. The amber lit, fire place having room with acoustics to sit and listen to my vinyl and relax & chillin' with a couple of fingers of Glenfidditch with that smell of ozone in the air. There are only a few things in this world that I feel would top that moment in time. Thanx for carrying the love of high end sound to the modern era. Take care and keep it up.
I built my system up mainly from used bits, I bought an original Mission Cyrus 1 back in the early 1980’s and a pair of Diamonds! My next purchase was a refurbished tape deck, I then stumbled on a used Pink Triangle turntable, for a bargain price back in 1985. I now have a Naim/Kudos system, the PT is still working well, albeit with a modded RB300 arm, I also have a March DAC, which I use as a Roon endpoint. It has been an interesting journey, I might be doing more upgrades to my PT, but I am very happy with my system, my PT sounded Majical against a Linn LP12 majik! It has took me 35 years to build up my system, it has being an interesting journey
Get the Outlaw Audio RR2160. Its a Beast. Has a decent DAC, 110WPC and Pre outs. Built like a tank
Jooce81 totally agree I have one....paired with JBL Studio 530BK which I got on sale and a Klipsch Subwoofer I had in another system.... fits the bill for great sound at a modest-ish price
I have one paired with Wharfedale Denton speakers and I love it. It's a great combo that will hold you over for years while saving up for something big.
Got the Outlaw 2160 mark 2 a week ago,paired with Q Acoustics 3050 floor standers. Right now it sounds like shit. Hoping after a decent burnin for better.
It’s just for a great room we use occasionally so it’s no big deal. However My bedroom has a new Willenston R8 amp paired with Elac 2 Uni Fi 5.2 bookshelve speakers that after about 8o hours of runtime sound freaking incredible. They leave me in awe when trumpets play.
Love your simplistic approach of explaining things for the ones starting this journey. Pls keep it up.
Love from India
I started with a Cambridge Audio integrated twenty years ago. My sister appreciated it when I fell down the rabbit whole as she inherited all my old gear as it was upgraded.
Thank you for this video. I’m so happy my plans for my coming setup with just a turntable and active speakers is what you recommend. The world of audio can feel super daunting at first, and your advice helps a lot
Paradigm Monitor SE Atom (better off axis listening for parties or entertaining) or Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ (better on axis listening for personal listening) with a Yamaha A-S301 and a powered subwoofer. Should cost you around $800-$900. Heck... buy a decent powered sub used and save a few extra bucks. That is a good setup that won't break your bank, and you will be happy for a long time with the parts.
It's hard to recommend an audiophile system. You have to consider the size of the room, and acoustics. No reason to spend 10's of thousands of dollars if you don't have plans to do any acoustic treatment when needed. Once you got the room in order, buy speakers that will fit the room. If you have too big or too small speakers, it won't sound right. Next up is to demo the suitable speaker alternatives, and pick the speaker-pair that gives you the best price/performance ratio. Ask the store for amp recommendations to match with the speakers, the AMP must complement the speakers weaknesses sonically. More power is better, bigger sweetspot and future proof if you want to get bigger speakers later. And it gets the maxium potential out of your speakers. This is the right way to do it in my opinion.
Robbinsffxi if you’ve ever looked at the measurements, all amps are easily within +/-0.1 dB across the audible range and beyond in both directions. No speaker at any price point us within +/-3 dB. A few exotic, expensive, badly designed speakers have crazy impedance curves that make them difficult to drive at high levels without distortion, but as long as you avoid those, any decent amp does as well as impressive looking monoblocks with their huge capacitor banks. Hi-fi is more mythology than reality. Cables are a scam as well. Use lamp wires for the speakers and ordinary, wimpy-looking signal “cables” and get better speakers instead.
Buy the speakers used. It’s not very common for speakers to have intermittent performance issues, if they are damaged in any meaningful way you will discover it upon test. Just make sure you don’t test only at low sound levels, since even a damaged speaker may actually sound pretty good at moderate levels. (Another clue about how much bs flies around; if you’ve listened to speakers at a friends place for a while, and then discovered to your surprise that the domes have been totally deformed - usually by a child - you should start to doubt all the talk in the ad about the precise shape of their unique domes!)
Before the believers start telling me how it is and cables matter and your other religious dogma, please know that James Randi has an open challenge that’s been standing for over a decade. Anyone who can tell, in a properly controlled, double-blind test, the difference between any high-end (so marketed) speaker cable and his cheap Monster cable gets one million dollars, plus the bragging rights. Strangely enough, equipment reviewers and manufacturers and distributors and hi-fi enthusiasts aren’t queueing up with their golden ears, despite the chance of succeeding by pure chance (guess wildly and get it right).
dojohansen123 I’m trying to figure out if you are arguing against me or not haha.
I think for beginners, buying second hand is not a good solution. But if you know what to look for, based on experience, I think it’s a good thing.
About cables, I’ve had different cables demonstrated, where I could hear a difference. But when the cable quality is up to a certain point, it doesn’t matter anymore. Lamp cable will do the job, no doubt about it.
Excellent advice. It is very easy to get carried away with this and most hobbies. I would also add some of the direct sales speaker brands to the list but for the novice just starting out the major brands are a safe place to start. The Sony core series bookshelf speakers have received a lot of praise since they came out and are well within most people’s budget especially when on sale as they usually are around the major holidays in the US.
Pretty newb here, but I am loving audio technica turntable (bluetooth model but rarely use the bluetooth capability for obvious reasons) paired with those same white Kanto YU6s (considering a 6" sub yet but not sure i need it in the room I am using). The whole set-up is so simple that even my 8 year old can walk into the room, power things on, pull out her Taylor Swift vinyl records and play records that sound just fine to us (and clearly much better than listening to music through our various Alexas, Bluetooth speakers streamed from phone, little refrigerator top Sony unit with external speakers, etc.) I'm sure someday I will upgrade the whole system because when I get into a hobby I enjoy I usually get a little crazy (do not look at my bikes in the garage or all associated gear), but when I do I know a little girl who will use this set-up in her own space...
Great advice. I started with a pair of Klipsch R-15PM speakers because they gave me easy connections without needed the receiver/amplifier. This was to replace a soundbar. I then added a sub which was easy because of the sub output on the R-15PM. My system has evolved from that base point. I now have 5.1.2 home theater, but composed of budget used Klipsch Synergy lines. I've listened to Forte IIIs and want to get those in the future, paired with something like the NR1200. I agree with your advice because I was always thinking HT to start, but realized I enjoy good old stereo much more than expected. It's an evolution. Now that I have a better idea of what I like/want, that big purchase of "nicer" equipement feels much better and something I can work towards.
A good affordable start up system is something along the lines of this:
- Schiit components (separates)
- Yamaha AS-801, AS-1100
- Yamaha RN-803 (great all in one receiver but questionable phono section)
- Sony SS CS5, Triangle Borea BR03, Klipsch RP600M (great entry level)
- Harbeth P3ESR, KEF LS50, Dynaudio etc (if wanna spend a bit more)
😬
I run my Orbit through a separate preamp to a pair of powered Edifier book shelf speakers with about 3 feet of left/right speaker separation. This sounds great to me as I finally have the TT and PA on a separate surface than the speakers. This is the best my set up has ever been, and literally the only thing I changed was placement as I was cramming it all on top of a Kallax shelf because I had no room living in apartments. I have a cork platter mat on the way. This will be the first upgrade to my TT in six years. So, I agree with what you said. But I'd say make even simpler changes that require less money first. I think most are victims of spacial circumstance, you only have a set amount of room for your set up. Figuring out the best placement is key before spending the money on higher end equipment. Once you've figured that out I'd shoot for half the cost of what you suggested as your low end options. That's a ton of money for something that no one besides the person that spent the money is going to notice or point out.
I put together a system for a small music room ( approximately 9x12). Other than the technics 1200 I already had, I only spent around $550 and it sounds great.
Yamaha r-s 500 reciever $ 200 used.
Onkyo DX -C390 6 disc changer $129 new.
Polk psw 10 sub woofer $100 new.
4 polk monitor 40's that I found used for $100. ( wired together in pairs)
$529 total and it sounds really good. No desire to change anything.
Cambridge Audio CXA 60 integrated amplifier @ $400, KEF Q350 stand/bookshelf mount speakers @ around $550-600 per pair, Soundstyle Z2 speaker stands @ $100 per pair, ( if required) and Chord loudspeaker cable, (from $10 per metre/yard).
It made a lot of sense at 11:30 last night... well put sir, and love the videos even when I’m often in the studio or pro environments. We all love our home systems! No matter the eclectic collection of gear!
I really appreciate your pragmatic approach to this hobby and the quick, to the point style of your videos. You earned another subscriber.
"too often people aim for the mountaintop and realize they've never climbed before"
Seriously good quote
So many good choices out there.. Yamaha, Emotiva, and Marantz make 2 channel integrated products for well under 400.00 Add an inexpensive blue ray player as a transport, and a pair of Pioneer towers {Andrew Jones designed) and you're on your way to great sound for very little money. Add Turntable if needed
This is good advice for building a first time system!
Your suggestion is great. Stay away from separates ..look for integrated amp or receiver. But I I will look for good receiver . Now receiver has everything inside including good dac. But I would suggest one more tips. Before making any purchase, he must listen to the chosen receivers that will drive the chosen speakers first with his favourite songs...
Have you done a segment on room setup? I heard a well-known self-proclaimed audiophile the other day say that the best system will never sound good in the wrong room. He did not go on, however, to describe the right room. I make this suggestion (for a topic) somewhat reluctantly because it would seem to be the one factor over which a person has the least control. I’m not going to sell my house, for example, in order to find a better room. And, for me, I really only have one room from which to choose. But perhaps there are recommendations you might make as to how to work with what you have, even if it’s a less than ideal room. Just a thought. Thanks again for the great content - most helpful audio/stereo channel on RUclips, IMO.
Thanks you so much helps me to understand alot. I only bought a turn table and don't even have anything else and the choices and options are exhausting to understand
Some people out there are just looking for a simple & cheap bedroom turntable setup without having one of those all-in-one "briefcase" turntables, I recommend the $100 4" Edifier's. Surprisingly good for the size & cost.
Sprout was the first thing that came to my mind
This is great information that Andrew is giving here, he is explaining this from many different angles. I would suggest looking at NAD 316bee integrated amp or a Marantz equivalent like the 6005 or 7005 series. For speakers the Elac b6 version 200 dollars and maybe a Marantz even or 6000 series CD player it sounds like you have a turntable with the orbit so he would have a decent system without a lot of cost, well below the 4000 for the JBLs.
This will allow him to see if it’s for him. I almost forgot I just saw a Marantz 7005 integrated and a 6005 streamer for sale for a little over 1000 dollars for both at Music Direct. It’s a great place to shop and you get 60 days to try out your stuff and if you don’t like it you can return it. 60 days is more than enough time to decide if it’s for you or not. All products that I mentioned are at Music Direct and some are demo or open box with the full manufacturers warranty and 60 day trial. No I don’t work for them, but I have been a customer for years.
Set a budget for yourself and the components mentioned you could get into for 1500 dollars to 1800 dollars and you are basically all in. Like Andrew said don’t start out big because you limit your growth especially if your resources are limited and if you don’t like it you will take a beating if you try to sell it. Good luck and great topic Andrew as usual. Andrew you got to get down to Axpona when you can.
Great advice Andrew, I am new to the world of hifi but have been following channels like yours for a while. I have been using Sonos speakers for sometime now but wanted to experience something different so sold of my stuff to buy a used pair of Mission 794 speakers, I planned to use them as a stereo pair but found some matching centre and surrounds so they will be used in the living room for general music listening plus movies. I will be using an AV receiver for now but plan to buy a good stereo amp to integrate with the living room receiver for music only. When I used Sonos they were great to use and sounded good and I had no clue how to setup speakers, but I am slowly learning and starting my journey into hifi, better late than never.
Don’t let go of the Sonos speakers. They are better than most audiophiles will admit. I’m keeping mine. I even invested in their sub. It’s a great bedroom system.
@@billd9667 I have the Play 5 and Play 1s still, will be keeping them. What Sonos speakers are you currently using for the bedroom?
@@nirajktm Two Ones and the Sub. They are quite good
@@billd9667 yeah ones with sub is quite good
Does Alex have a proper hifi store nearby? The first rig I bought was based on what the guys in the shop told me. The first time I went, the guy asked my my budget and told me to come back with 5/6 CD's or records and he would set up the listening room. No sell on the first date. Let the guys in the store geek out if you can.
Budget for cables at 10-15% of your spend and budget for stands if you're not going to buy floor standers.
Spend approx. twice on your speakers what you pay for your integrated amp
If you go with 1K (excluding the stands and cables) you are very much in business and you will get an amazing experience that will last you years. The only other suggestion after that is to hide your wallet.
JBL Stage 170, PS Audio Sprout. Good bass, sound stage and easy on the wallet.
Great advice! Appreciate the tip!
Andrew Robinson you should contact PS Audio and do a review on the sprout. It’s been done a bunch of times by other reviewers but maybe you can bring a different perspective to it...the Dac and phono stage are pretty good... much better than you find in most budget integrated amps.and it has a pre out I believe
Would love to see a review on the sprout
@@rickbradshaw2148 I have it, and it's one hell of a piece of gear. And yes, it does have a pre out.
1000 dollar amp for first system is not a good idea... I think starting of like he said, with Yamaha or something and a pair of speakers worth of a few hundred, and upgrade from there, used market is great for beginners
Cannot agree more, your advice is exactly the way any beginner should go, certainly. And its the same no matter the passion your starting on. Take it slowly, go soft with it. P.s. If you don't want the stress of passive speakers and still have fantastic sound, I've heard some days ago a pair of Edifier S3000 Pro. Active speakers with lots of connectivity. All in one product, hifi certified with incredible sound and build quality. Absolute bargain for the money with no compromise on sound.
I think you're wrong about $200 being better than that Marshall. The speaker itself is $100 (sure it has other electronics), but it's honestly one of the best single-speaker devices I've heard like that.
My sister was in the same situation, Bluetooth'ing to a Marshall Acton from her TV. She hated switching to a $200 soundbar with sub because it sounded dinky even though the stereo imaging was better.
I helped her grab a receiver and hooked up a couple Polk bookshelf speakers and a sub. Cost a lot more than $200 (mainly 'cause of the receiver). This is a pretty specific scenario caused by the Marshall speaker sounding so good.
So Kristi, good job girl. Looking back a year shows your excellent contribution! 🤩
Politely??!! I’m an audiophile, dude! I don’t know how to be polite! 😁
Really good advice! Very practical approach to starting out.
I recognize that I’m late to this party given when you published this video, however, there may be others like me that just recently discovered your excellent channel.
One area that wasn’t addressed is the listening room. That can take an entire episode or three, but again, just the basics. Small, medium, large room. There is no one solution that fits all.
Thoughts?
A neighbour gave me a set of Mission 73's, I then bought my first Amp and NAD 302 for £50. I'm happy.
I am a music producer but have never had a separate hi-fi system, its a little bit different. Mission M73's can be picked up for less than £100 (They are fromt he early 00's) on ebay.... the sound is brilliant.
I've gone through so many budget combinations over the last 20 years, and I've finally settled on a unique combination IMHO. A vintage quad 33 preamp fed into the power section of an Audiolab 8200a integrated (the 8200a has a dire preamp but amazing power section). This is then run into some Kef Concertos in which I've installed some modern crossovers. I like to see the system as a modular thing where you tinker as much as you want with individual pieces
First thing is look at the Room you plan to put your system in . Were are you going to place your speakers , Your Amp , Turntable . If you going to need to put your speakers in a bookshelf or close to a wall front firing ports work the best . You need to think about these things . Where you place your speakers have a big effect on the sound you get out of your system .
What an exciting time to be entering into this world, for me it’s been a long one with life dictating priorities where money had to be spent. I agree with your advice buy a decent amp that will cater for future reasonable speaker upgrades. Trust your ears and use good retail outlets to put various elements together for you (mix and match). You don’t have to eat the elephant in one go! This is a journey and wish you luck.
This has been a great episode - great advice👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻.
I went from sound bars to an entry-level 7.1 tsx-polk system and AVR in 2014 and I'm just now starting 2023 with an entry level 7.2.4 focal system with emotiva amps and separate processor. I love movies and TV but have never been an audio file, so I'm wondering if I went too far this time as I'm starting to set everything up. But it looks cool and I'm super excited, so I'll find out soon if it was worth it.
Great advice! When I started out back in the early eighties and knowing I wanted a fairly good two channel stereo system. I had very little money to spend. Can't remember what I payed, but it wasn't much. So I found a used Marantz 2265B intagrated amp with a Teac cassett player ( no CD players yet) and Cerwin Vegas for speakers. So not bad for starting out. Later in the late eighties I upgraded to a Denon intagrated amp and Paraidgm SE9 speakers with a Philips CD player. My son still has that system today! Mid nineties I stepped it up by buying a VAC PA 100 100 KT88 amp with ARC LS 15 tube pre amp. I choose Paraidgm bookshelves speakers with their servo 15 sub woofer
Not exspensive, but easy to drive and full range Ive had many full range speakers since then. But just recently I bought the Magnepan. 7's and for the money ($1,400) very hard to beat if you are after inner detail and sound stage! A cheaper option is the Magnepan LRS for $650!! But there are so many economic good sounding speakers out there! Keep in mind the Maggie's need space and will devour amplifiers with little power/ current. As for buying used its a very good option. Knowing my Maggie's needs lots of watts/current I found a used Spectron musical MK ll class D amp for $900 shipped to my door. This beast weights 52lbs! & output is 500watts@8ohm @4ohms 1,200watts@2ohms and will do 65 amps for 500 milliseconds I love the way this amp sounds with my Maggie's!! I just love it and have my fingers crossed it lasts for awhile
I think Adam Audio monitors would be great for him, I'm actually considering getting a pair myself.
I'm kind of surprised you didn't mention buying used as a good option. I don't fancy myself an audiophile, but I got into audio by just playing around with odds and ends I found at the local thrift store. Then, after a little knowledge gleaned fom the internet, I graduated to craigslist. One can put together a pretty decent setup on a thin dime.
A pair of Golden ears triton 5 is about $2k a pair. Alex will love them. They have integrated subwoofers, and amazing Soundstage.
Andrew, I really appreciate your work! Total beginner here.
Check Craigslist, I found a number of people in my area who buy and sell equipment all the time. Beyond being able to buy some good sound gear at a reasonable price they already put some pieces together that seem to pair really well. I got my whole system for like $300 and I am pretty sure that it sounds better than anything I could buy new for under $1K.
Ebay has huge variety of integrated amps, a/v amps... in my opinion a 2nd hand integrated amp and a pair of working order speakers will be a good entry level option that doesnt cost a weeks wage. If you choose quality brand names and check the condition carefully from photos you could have a decent starting point that will not break the bank.
Andrew, a breath of fresh air in the fog of all the internet hoopla, great video. I agree with your advice but would like to add to it. If the listener purchased the Yamaha basic stereo receiver that has built-in Bluetooth and also the FM tuner, they would have three sources of music. The turntable, FM Stereo, and the ability to stream music via Bluetooth opening up many genres of music that they would have to purchase separately as albums. Last time, I looked they were about $130 US from multiple vendors. I think your price range in speakers you suggested is spot on also as there are many great options from Klipsch(biased), Wharfedale, Polk, JBL, and many others. Keep up the great videos!
Thank you! Also lots of good suggestions.
I know I'm late to the game here, but this is an invaluable video. I used to "chase the dragon" and realized "the law of diminishing returns" is HUGE in audiaphilia. My comments are a little different than Drew's, but are along the same lines.
This is a very expensive "hobby" and the most important thing is that you get what you want when it comes to features. Those Kanto speakers are excellent. The difference between them and the $4k ones combined with an amp and preamp is much MUCH smaller than the difference between the Kanto's and a $1k streaming speaker. The audio world is wrought with crazy differences like this.
I bought a pair of Fluance Ai40's. They blew me away. So I picked up a pair of Ai60s's because I could add a sub to them. The highs are fatiguing, while the overall sound is more rounded. So I added a sub. Problem solved. I couldn't be more happy with this $600 system.
Emotiva TA-100. Labeled as an "Integrated Amp" but has a tuner. Moving coil and moving magnet phone stage, bluetooth, built in DAC, sub out, specs are virtually identical to the 316BEE. Same price.
Both are excellent choices just starting out. Klipsch RP600M speakers are just over $400 now. Add the lowest price NAD CD player and you will be set for many years.
I probably wouldn't advise Cantos because they seem really to prefer being in near field. I'd probably suggested powered KEF 50s. They're attractive, placed on stands they actually look pretty high end, they're way cheaper than the JBLs yet they can fill a room with nice sound even at low volume. In fact I'd say they can very well be all you will need for the forseeable future even if your system grows to include new sources like a network streamer or CD player. Unless you get bitten by audiophilia and then nothing is ever good enough for very long. I have had the same (reasonably priced) speakers for 19 years and found no reason to upgrade them - because I still enjoy them as much as I did when I got them.
I'm a well-satisfied U-Turn Orbit Plus turntable owner. Like yourself I find it provides good value for the money but the Pluto phono preamp limits the sound quality. However it's good enough to get started with. The $99 Schiit Modi 3 DAC has been widely recommended and I agree. It provides very good digital sound from any device with a USB port. I use the $49 Schiit SYS to switch between these and control the volume.