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Help a recovering audiophile build a system

Hello there! I have been out of this hobby (sickness) for about 2 years now. In 2008 I sold my entire system (look up Beauty and the Beasts) and decided to take a little breather. I am now ready to get back into this hobby, determined this time to stay focused on enjoying the music and not spend a ridiculous amount of money (no more than $4K per component).

My system now consists of a pair of Sonus Faber Cremona monitors and a huge digital music library. I am looking for advice on the following:

Integrated Amp
DAC
CD transport (instead of a DAC a CDP that has digital inputs would be nice)

My goals are clarity, dynamics, and speed with just a touch of sweetness.

Thank you in advance for your help!
128x128tboooe
inna
5,245 posts
 
I would start with ipod touch and Grado headphones and see how much I really want to go into that repetition.
tboooe's avatar
tboooe OP
1,009 posts
 
Thanks for the response everyone!

Dpac996, the Pass Int is on my list as well as the Ayre. As for dacs, I am looking at the Ayre and Esoteric. These are all brands I have had in my system at one point. Of course I am open to others.

Daverz, I currently have a Sonos system that will act as the transport for my digital library. Thought the SB is nice, I have so many zones of music that the Sonos makes the most sense.

Inna, my brother suggested the same thing. I must admit headphones intrigue but I am afraid that is yet another rabbit hole that could easily suck my time, resources, and money.
inna
5,245 posts
 
Thank you. Well, ipod is, let's say, $400 and Grado $300-$650. Not a pocket change but not too much. And you could easily sell the Grado and give your ipod to your brother.
Whatever you decide - good luck.
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