I'm happy to join the best audio forum!
I became interested in high end audio in college, where I had a poor system. (When played loud, the speakers would produce fire in the port.) A local high end store was kind enough to take the system in trade, and I purchased an NAD integrated amp. So it began. On summer break, I worked for Tweeter (if you remember that chain). I try to spend less than $600 for equipment, often used. Exceptions were (used) Gallo Strada speakers, Pro-Ject RPM 10, and Decware Torii Mk II. Current system:
Decware Torii II tube amplifier
Betsy baffle-less speakers ($400 new; I preferred them to my Gallos!)
Rogue Audio Perseus preamp
Pro-Ject RPM 10 w/ Goldring1042 cartridge
Moon 110LP phono stage / Lehmann Black Cube II
Bluesound Node streamer
Rotel RDD-1580 DAC
DIRAC Live room correction (only used for digital sources)
David