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Budget hi-fi and vintage audio gear

I’m in the process of putting together a budget hi-fi system and I am curious for any advice fellow Arsians could provide. I would like a system that is purely stereo and produces high SQ rather than high SPL. As it stands now, my computer would be the main audio source (MP3, APE, CD) using my TBSC- however I want to eventually add higher quality separates like a CD player, etc. This system will be used in a bedroom/computer room (small apartment) and I’m pretty set on picking up a pair of Axiom Audio’s M2ti speakers. What I’m looking for is a good quality integrated amplifier (not a receiver, I don’t need radio) that is budget priced (~$250 at most). I’ve done some searching around and it seems vintage equipment could yield the best results for my needs. What sort of vintage equipment would you recommend for my needs? I’ve seen the NAD 3020 or 70’s Marantz equipment come highly recommended  https://waveadvice.com/integrated-amplifiers/ ; does anyone have any experience with this equipment? What are some precautions to take regarding the purchasing of 20+ year old audio equipment? What are common problems old integrated amplifiers run into? Any information and suggestions are highly appreciated! Thanks!
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jkevinoc's avatar
jkevinoc
2 posts
 
I too have had great luck on craigslist and eBay, amassing a really great Linn system based on the Sondek LP12 and Kans I bought new in 1983, for a fraction of new cost.
My bet would be to look for 1980-90s Rotel, Arcam, NAD or Denon integrated amps. I have equipment that has lived for 30-40 years without failure. Don't pay attention to naysayers. Anything can happen. 70s vintage can be a slightly bigger risk, but I have a system consisting of a 1961 KnightKit tube amp which my Dad built, my original AR XB turntable from 1974, and Smaller Advent Loudspeakers from craigslist. It is amazing still. I did have a pair of Advents from 1974 til 1985-6 which I sold.

If you live within driving distance of a big urban center, there are more possibilities for actually listening to equipment. CL sellers often willing to demo speakers, etc. to reassure potential purchasers. 

Good examples:

https://newyork.craigslist.org/jsy/ele/d/ridgewood-creek-4330-integrated-amp/6787513212.html

https://newyork.craigslist.org/fct/ele/d/fairfield-denon-vintage-stereo-receiver/6781822814.html

https://newjersey.craigslist.org/ele/d/berkeley-heights-ariston-image/6785805117.html

I recently bought a pair of Linn Kan speakers from the third lister above. He also has a good selection of electronics. Great experience.

There is a good chance of a "Craigslist adventure"! You might make a friend.
dorkwad
317 posts
 
Go on VMPS speakers--Audio Circle.  Look at the latest few pages of speakers.  If you can find a pair of VMPS 626R monitors, they are the first excellent speaker I heard when I got back into the buying scene.  also the VMPS RM-2 has great sound.  Should be able to find a good used pair for maybe well under $1000, like $600-900.  If you can find ones with Auricaps in the crossovers, that would be an extra plus.  They are very detailed, dynamic, and adjustable to your room and system--plus the RM-2's have great bass.  The 626R's have balanced bass and good detail to them.  They were reviewed and said to be among the best monitors for sound still.

Bob

jeffwyo57
12 posts
 
Very funny 
hrabieh
6 posts
 
After you get set on your "budget" system, play around with software such as jplay, audirvana, etc. ... they all have trial version and you'll be amazed at how they can make whatever system you construct seem at a completely different league, specially if you are going to be using your PC as your source.. I would recommend that before adding any esoteric hardware to get your system to sound better.  Good luck.
birdfan's avatar
birdfan
50 posts
 
I’ve recently purchased a Marantz 1060 w/ a 112 tuner for $350. Warm, lush, rolled off in the highs... sounds lovely. The last word in Hi-Fi? No. But pretty looking w a phono input. 

I also bought an old Sansui au-217 for $100. Better frequency response than the Marantz.. more punch, better control over the low end and really good separation and imaging considering I spent $100 and some time cleaning the pots.. it’s actually  one of my favorite amps. 
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