Coming out of the blackhole called work...retirement

Congratulations on your retirement.  I retired 7 months ago and I have been upgrading both my systems.  Have fun and do not forget to listen, listen.

@goose   +1  Good point about getting gear that can be repaired when necessary.

I just retired too 1/1/18.  You have been given good advice but with 400 albums I would also focus on your vinyl collection.  Is your turntable in good shape? Cartridge? You also need a high quality phono stage to get the most out of your records.  There are some quality integrated amps that have built in DAC’s, & phono stages.  Your speaker selection will also dicate the power needed to drive them.  Solid state or tube?  If it was my money I would listen to as much gear as possible before buying.  I would also select my speakers first and then figure out what to drive them with. 

@amg56....this is not an attack, but at your age ( over 50 I presume ), have your hearing checked. I do, every 18 months or so. Your sound room, as I mentioned prior, is the most critical component. Much good advice above, as, to finding out what you want a system to deliver to you. Be patient. Enjoy the journey ( never ending in many cases ). Find an audio club in your area ( if there is one ), and participate. This is another good way to get your ears wet.

I will add to the chorus: Find a local dealer that you like, and listen, listen, listen before you leap.