how much would you say a good set up cost

If you can't put together a fantastic system for 30k it requires a lot of missteps, not that you couldn't have a mediocre system with that much money into it (you can). But I agree with the general tenor of the thread that with 10K or less you could (expecially buying used)put together a very formidable system, especially if you know what you are doing with matching a speaker and amp. If you have been around the block with this hobby, you can do so easily. Without that experience or the advice of a good dealer or experienced friend, you can chase your tail in this hobby and spend a whole lot more without getting a system that will satisfy for the long term.

I suspect 10k is doable. Right off the top of my head I can think of used Merlin loudspeakers for $4500, and a used Ars-Sonum integrated amp for $3500, and a used Rega Apollo CD player for $700. $8700. Leaves $1300 for wire and power cords.

If analog is also in the cards, then $10k would be tough, IMO.

Pubul57
Just to clarify I had a 30k system that could and would trump some up into 100 k in systems... We could go on and on all day, I was simply stating that you can be happy at many levels lower than some state or maybe think is possible. So you are correct...

And I only threw my example out due to the original poster that started the thread was saying 30 to 35 k seemed to be some kinda magic #... If I was to do it again yep your right I could EASILY put together a no nonsense 30 k very optimal system just as easily as one for 3 k..

But I would not be happy having that much invested no matter how good it was now that I have found the important part of the equation that all audio beings lose sight of at some point in this hobby, and it is not the fancier, the prettier, the bigger the better approach which was my only point, however that having a connection and "feeling" from the music every time you turn your system on..

"For that sensation it is priceless, for everything else there is Mastercard."
:-)

Undertow, what comprises your $6k system?

Several un-explainable and un-purchaseable equipment :-) Well of course it all started as somebodys gear, and ended up with just their original name tag on it in the end, Mainly just all highly customized pieces and specific pieces ordered and altered with the best of the best to effect the important aspects of the electronics, cables and room itself. Nothing special just done right from the ground up this time vs. trying to match everything, there is always tradeoffs.