poofer

I'm torn between the HRT Streamer II + NAD 316BEE or the all-in-one Harman Kardon HK 3490 (which would save me $150).... Sure wish I had a local vendor to compare these recievers (looking at the Marantz one as well) vs. DAC + integrated amp..

Thanks for all the replies! I've revised my shopping list to spend a little more on my DAC/Amp as universally suggested. I'm glad that everyone was familiar with the NAD 3020 and were able to steer me clear. I've also discovered that I'm better off connected via USB rather than s/pdif. This simplifies my life further as I have serveral spare USB-capable(but no s/pdif), older machines. Much rather rig up one of those rather than my main PC so I can strip it down to bare essentials. Very impressed with this community, and now well on my way to my first real setup. For the record, I think I'm going with a NAD 316BEE, an HRT Streamer, and the wharfdales if I can summon the cash. I've got a pair of Sennehiser HD240s that should sound pretty sweet with this rig, too. I was tempted with the active speakers but have decided to keep my system modular....when the gravy starts flowing a little thicker the upgrades will follow Thanks again

Hello! New user reporting in! I'm in the process of putting together my very first 2-channel Hifi system, and have spend a few weeks doing research on the internet that has led me to here. My music collection is primarily compressed FLAC and v0 lame encoded mp3s (mostly jazz with some electronic stuff as well)...I was happy to discover that I could build a system that will let me use my digital collection in its current format. I've come to the conclusion that I need to spend the majority of my limited funds on speakers, so I'm looking at very budget-minded used amps and DACs to go with them. I was hoping you guys could comment on the parts I've been looking at and perhaps better alternatives in this price range. I know this is not primo stuff, but I'm a poor student and this is all I have to work with for my first system. I plan on connecting my DAC to my home computer via s/pdif out (my motherboard has both optical and coax out) or perhaps putting together a 2nd machine exclusively for this purpose. The room I'm installing this in is very small. DAC Beresford TC-7510 (I've seen no mention of this DAC here. Is this too crappy?) AMP NAD 3020 (I've heard this is the best value I can find in used hifi amps) Speakers Polk Audio TSi200 WHARFEDALE - DIAMOND 10.1 ??? I'd appreciate any advice or direction in terms of good, used equipment that I should be looking for on ebay in my price range. The extreme max I can spend total while still being able to eat in december is about a grand. Thanks!