Hi all,
I'm new to the audio space and am trying to put together a plan for my first system. After a fair bit of research, I currently have my eyes set on the X-LS or X-SLS kit because I like projects and woodworking, and I would like to keep costs low since it is my first system. It is difficult for me to choose electronics, however, because I don't know where the sweet spot for value would be for me. My plans for the system include a stereo setup (I do not plan on adding a subwoofer) that will be used for primarily music, but also possibly audio from a TV while streaming videos/movies, however not a home theater.
The Yamaha R-N303BL Stereo Receiver with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth & Phono ($300.00) interested me because it has bluetooth and wi-fi streaming built in, making it easy to stream music from my spotify. I will primarily be using spotify for music since I do not have a library of CD's or music files (Yes, I know about the Roon system and lossless audio and all that, but hey, its my first budget system, and I can't tell the difference yet). Otherwise I can take on another project of making a music streamer out of a Raspberry Pi and connecting that to a DAC and amplifier.
My biggest issue is that I have no idea where to start - should i be looking at $200 electronics, $500, $1000? Where is the sweet spot in value for electronics for these speakers in a first-time setup? Should I be looking at receivers or trying to get a streamer, DAC, and amplifier separately?
I would like to keep the electronics total cost to around $500 or less if possible.
Any recommendations for electronics would be greatly appreciated. I hope my question makes sense!
Best regards,
Epikplatypus