Good topic!
The challenge is, in my view, to put together a good system for relatively small budgets. Here's my take on it:
Integrated amp - NAD 317 app. 500 euros
CD player - Yamaha CDX-993 app. 400 euros
Tuner - Marantz ST6000 app. 250 euros
Speakers - B&W 602 S3 app. 450 euros
Speaker cables - van den Hul CS122 app. 100 euros (2x5 m)
Intercons - van den Hul D102 Mk.3 app. 150 euros
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TOTAL 1,850 euros ($ 2,250)
The NAD is a powerhouse, and will deliver far more than you would ever expect of it (nominally 2x120W/8 ohms, but up to 600W into 2 ohms - most load tolerant). The CD player is, unfortunately, unavailable in North America, which is a tremendous pity, because its prime characteristic is that it sounds ever so analog, and is built like a tank (2 separate power transformers, internal bracing, discrete output stages, etc). I think it would surprise quite a few of you guys, and after some simple mods, many of you guys.
The Marantz tuner is another killer Marantz product - at its price, it has no right to play music like that, and I daresay, that kind of sound just 10 years ago used to cost ten times the price.
B&W 602 speakers are relatively sedate, but rather detailed, among the best imaging at that price point that I know of.
van den Hul cabling has been with me for many years now, and the two above are well known and documented favorites. My only doubt here would be whether to use CS122 or 352 Hybrid cabling for 5 m (17 feet) runs; the 352 is in fact exactly the same cable as the CS122, but instead of 2x3 mm of the CS122, it has 2x5 mm diameters (2x256 silver plated OFC copper mixed with carbon fibre).
In an average room, this system will produce a remarkable (for its price, of course) neutrality and very good imaging, however, for those who prefer modern music, especially electronic music, the speakers may be a bit slow. These people may want to investigate offerings from Mission, Infinity, JBL for better pace and tempo.
Cheers,
DVV
