This ugly system cost me around 10K to put together over the last 10 years or so. (Ten years ago I did not know I would really be into home stereo.) I purchased some of the pieces used (Vandersteen speakers, Kimber speaker cables, and Analysis Plus interconnect cable) I built the HTPC from parts of my old PCs and some new parts. I use the system for music and home theater. I listen to vinyl the most when I am enjoying music. I have this system set up in a 15' wide x 16' long x 7.5' tall room. I have been forced (due to monetary constraints) to upgrade piece by piece. I have a wonky system but have really enjoyed each upgrade I have made. I am looking for suggestions on what you think I should upgrade next. Note that I only have about $3K to upgrade with this year and will not be able to do another upgrade for a year or two. At this point I am thinking I want to use the $3K to move away from the AVR (as preamp) to a dedicated stereo preamp. Thanks for reading!
Keep us posted. You'll probably get a ton of ideas, but honestly as much as folks (I'm included) feel there are huge differences in amps etc..., at this level, getting one that is powerful enough to run the speakers and are clean. The Ayre will be neither tube nor SS in sound. It's pace and rhythm are correct and the mids sound great. The NAD gear is run by MANY who own them. Personally I'd get an Ayre as I had one for my Treo's, but now run the Ayre AX5/Twenty which is in a different league. Those NAD amps are killer though and under rated IMHO.
Pesonally, I'd go for a used Ayre AX7e integrated. Honestly, you should also check out NAD separates that would be higher powered. They work wonderfully with the Vandy's and I've heard them vs the Arcam AVR and like the NAD separates much much better. Just a suggestion.
