Hi Mazda ...
I've got to agree with Andy on this one but if you're interested in audio and maybe DIY then you could try a Dick Smith kit for a pre-amp and also for an amp [I'm presuming you're in Aus]. DS have a choice of kits that could give you an amp for around $100 and a pre-amp for less. The components in amps [capacitors in particular] deteriorate over time so avoid anything that's over 15 years old. I admit you've still got to pick up a source [maybe CD player or maybe computer] and some speakers. 2nd hand is probably the way to go for the speakers as they often seem to turn up in places like Vinnies and the Sallies [sorry, if you're not in this country I really can't explain
]. It would be useful to test 2nd hand speakers to make sure none of the drivers are stuffed if you can find someone to help you on that. Otherwise, connect them up to a source and put your ear up to each driver to make sure that they work and that they don't make some horrible noise they shouldn't.
If you are buying off the shelf from Harvey Norman [or similar] I suggest you take someone along who you trust for having a good ear [a muso maybe?]. Spend some time listening. Swap, compare, listen to them soft and loud, don't be sucked in by the beauty of the plastic and just keep at it till you get a feel for the differences between what you're listening to. For fun, go into one of those really expensive places where the staff are totally snooty and have a listen to the best they've got to offer as well. It's incredibly hard to make good judgements in a store situation for any number of reasons but practicing being a critical customer is as important as anything else. There's a huge difference between the sounds put out by cheap audio gear. A lot of it is deliberately in your face but if you hunt around you'll probably find something that's at least acceptable.
jules
