Building a BEGINNER AUDIOPHILE SETUP Audio Advice with Andrew Robinson

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BUILDING A BEGINNER AUDIOPHILE SETUP Audio Advice with Andrew Robinson
For a list of recommending beginner hifi systems, check the description below.
Subscriber Alex wrote me this weekend asking for advice on how to go about upgrading his audio system from an all-in-one Bluetooth loudspeaker to higher-end loudspeakers like my JBL L100 Classics (bit.ly/3oyx6Yv). This is my advice on how to take those first crucial steps in your hi-fi journey. Warning, my advice may shock you.
The following list is meant to be a starting point in helping you find the hifi equipment that works best for you. This is not an exhaustive list so feel free to leave your favorites in the comments below!
► RECOMMENDED SPEAKERS FOR YOUR FIRST HIFI SYSTEM
POWERED SPEAKERS (no power source needed)
Kanto YU4: amzn.to/35aiUus
Kanto YU6: amzn.to/36nJLmP
KEF LSX: amzn.to/3nwvRrO
Klipsch The Fives: bit.ly/fivesUS
Klipsch R-41M: amzn.to/2PrGwnG
PASSIVE SPEAKERS (require power source)
ELAC Debut 2.0: amzn.to/2P5X7Pa
Jamo S803: amzn.to/2F6hMQw
JBL Bookshelf Speaker: amzn.to/36lY3V0
KEF Q150 Bookshelf Speaker: amzn.to/38n6lxM
Paradigm Monitor SE: amzn.to/2E2865J
Polk Audio Signature S20: amzn.to/2YwcD9U
Yamaha NS-150 Tower Speakers: amzn.to/38aeWVd
► RECOMMENDED POWER SOURCES FOR YOUR FIRST HIFI SYSTEM
Arylic A50 Integrated Amplifier: amzn.to/2QwddS1
Denon PMA-600NE: bit.ly/3aSaX1L
Denon PMA-150H: bit.ly/PMA150H
Cambridge Audio Topaz SR10: amzn.to/2ru6cYV
Marantz NR1200: bit.ly/3Ha0XiX
Marantz NR1609: amzn.to/2rwIbjN
NAD 316BEE Integrated Amplifier: amzn.to/2Wwj2S8
SMSL Integrated Amplifiers: amzn.to/2YH88uE
► RECOMMENDED TURNTABLES
Audio Technica Fully Automatic Record Player: amzn.to/3gCZ7cc
Audio Technica LP140XP: amzn.to/33OfgXO
Fluance RT85: bit.ly/RT85player
U-Turn Orbit Special: bit.ly/UTOS0A
► RECOMMENDED MUSIC STREAMERS
Andover Audio Songbird Hi-Res Streamer: bit.ly/34qt5wO
Arylic S50 Pro: bit.ly/AS50P
Cambridge Audio CXN V2: bit.ly/V2cxnAz // bit.ly/2LJHHAB
► MY REFERENCE AUDIO AND HOME THEATER SYSTEM
POWER
Naim Uniti Atom All In One Music System: bit.ly/NaimAtom
Musical Fidelity Integrated Amp: bit.ly/M5si
LOUDSPEAKERS
Q Acoustic Concept 300: bit.ly/C300wsA
Klipsch Heresy IV: bit.ly/heresyiv
Jamo S809: amzn.to/356tnK5
SPEAKER STANDS
Kanto Bookshelf Speaker Stands (budget): bit.ly/Kanto26
SolidSteel Speaker Stands (best): bit.ly/3I9Xa5W
TURNTABLES
Audio Technica LP140XP: amzn.to/33OfgXO
Cambridge Audio Alva bit.ly/3tWwdxd
RECORD PLAYER CARTRIDGES
Ortofon 2M Blue Cartridge (better): bit.ly/OrtBlue
Ortofon 2M Black Cartridge (best): bit.ly/3yKz9i1
HEADPHONES
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless NCX Headphones: bit.ly/WH1000xm4
SOUNDBARS
SENNHEISER AMBEO: bit.ly/35yLQO1
TOP SMART TVs
LG 8K TV: bit.ly/LG8K99TV
Hisense H9G: bit.ly/H9GTV
TCL 6 Series: amzn.to/35Vn9NO
BLUETOOTH / DESKTOP SPEAKERS
Naim Mu-so V2: amzn.to/33ASZxI
Klipsch The Fives: bit.ly/fivesUS
Kanto YU: bit.ly/YUdesk
► SHOP OUR LIVING ROOM
ARTICLE LEATHER CHAIR: bit.ly/NirvanaChr
ARTICLE SOFA: bit.ly/2HI6cMH
ART: bit.ly/howfaryt
TV / MEDIA CABINET: bit.ly/BDIMEDIA
EVERYTHING ELSE: bit.ly/ARdecor
► STAY CONNECTED
SUBSCRIBE & RING THE 🔔 bit.ly/RobinsonYT
JOIN THE CREW: bit.ly/ARobMbr
INSTAGRAM: bit.ly/AndRobIG
BUSINESS INQUIRIES: bit.ly/andrewbiz
FTC: This video is not sponsored. Some links above are affiliate, meaning we make a small percentage if you buy through the link but it won't change the price for you! Thank you for helping to support the channel
#audio #hifi #audiophile

Пікірлер: 545

@domsdomsdomsdoms 4 жыл бұрын

hmm.. i like how this dude isnt just giving audiophile knowledge but audiophile experience. his advice isnt just for instant gratification but looks ahead long term, as well as considering real issues like budget and fall out rate. it’s like helping people enjoy the most out the hobby while avoiding mistakes alonh the way. and it deals with heart issues like impatience etc to avoid making dumb decisions. we all need that..

@kalijasin 3 жыл бұрын

experience = knowledge.

@alexlanning712 3 жыл бұрын

Yes, what I like about him, he's into conceptual thinking about audio which leaves me for dead!

@edouardgibout1354 3 жыл бұрын

I've been looking into changing my Bose Sound Bar to an HiFi system for some weeks now. It is a big change. I am not an audiophile but music is a big part of my life and I want to improve my experience. I've been discussing with vendors, reading blogs, watching videos. I feel I just received the best advice from you today. Thank you, it really helped in my decision process.

@z00h 4 жыл бұрын

I like how you structure your sentences because it makes it easier to understand what you think.

@benjamin5909 3 жыл бұрын

I like the humbleness of how you approach this subject. 0 pretentious attitude. You have been to the upper levels qnd still relate 100% to someone with zero knowledge in the field. Great job sir.

@kpkelsey 4 жыл бұрын

Man, I really like the way you think things through. This is so interesting and real world. Thanks.

@andrewrobinsonreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much your comment means a lot!

@adnanmoazzem4146 4 жыл бұрын

Kevin Kelsey exactly my thoughts on this video. Thanks for the video

@tomprowda9581 4 жыл бұрын

Andrew, as a very experienced music lover and long time audiophile I greatly enjoy your reasoned and sensible approach to newbies in this wonderful hobby. You have a great way of explaining complex issues in an easy to understand way, something I always tried to strive for when I sold audio. My interest in music and audio started at 7 years old (thanks, Mom & Dad!), my ears have been a blessing and a curse at times, lol! The quality of gear at very affordable prices is truly astonishing these days; no one needs be scared or shamed they can't afford to spend thousands on a quality system! Great series!

@TBNTX 4 жыл бұрын

Great lesson for new-comers to vinyl, Andrew. Terrific insight. I've been a long-time vinyl fan (decades-long), and I'm HAPPY about the re-disovery of vinyl. I've even sent a Fluance turntable with their powered speakers to two of my family members with some LPs that connect them with past family music. Fluance offers turntables + powered speakers starting below $400, and these are very good starter systems. I presently own their RT85T turntable and their Reference series 5.1 Surround-Sound speaker system, but I've been building-up my audio system for a long time. DISCLAIMER: I'm not affiliated with Fluance in any way. I mention the company for reference purposes, and to help new-comers find an affordable way to begin listening to LPs. Music matters. Keep up the good job, Andrew,.

@melomaniacspodcast1105 4 жыл бұрын

Exactly why I recommend the Emotiva TA-100 to start. Integrated amp with preouts. It allowed me to add an A300 amp later when I bought some big boy speakers in the T1+. Love this setup

@deamon575 2 жыл бұрын

Andrew, I love how you explained each audio component and provided a simple approach to Alex on how he should think, by sharing your professional experience from your perspective.

@justinroundy9189 4 жыл бұрын

Let's put this out there: if you want an integrated amp and stereo speakers, the vintage market is a great thing for poor folks like me. I have a nakamichi RE-3 (integrated amp with built in phono preamp), Technics SL-1300 turntable, shure srh440 headphones, and pioneer cs-G515 speakers. I've been happy with that a looong time, and I think it would cost a pretty budget to do any better with the stereo. I did have to get the amp serviced eventually, it just needed certain bits cleaned out, nbd. A lot of this stuff doesn't really wear out, so if you can't afford to support the new stuff right away, you don't have to. My "big upgrade" of the last few years was getting a schiit fulla2 for my desk 😅

@pauldavies8638 3 жыл бұрын

I would add a wide band graphic equaliser to that set up as an upgrade but it still sounds very nice 👍

@BalleBaest 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this video. I’m so happy my plans for my coming setup with just a turntable and active speakers is what you recommend. The world of audio can feel super daunting at first, and your advice helps a lot

@Powerpickle68 4 жыл бұрын

I believe that your advice was spot on and I can apply the advice to two hobbies that I have. Because of this video and well, many of your videos that I watched more than once, I am really really considering the Kanto YU6.

@cassietessier5594 4 жыл бұрын

Got my first turntable today, it came as a bundle on amazon with speakers. They are Presonus Eris speakers. And that’s all I have. The Audio Technica LP60X has a preamp built in, and the speakers are Active ones. Got everything hooked up and the sound is amazing. Only spent $200 on the whole thing. But for my first I love it and will eventually upgrade. Once I understand this world I got into ☺️

@user-xg6zz8qs3q 4 жыл бұрын

Psshht! There’s no point in upgrading. Just listen to the music. Just don’t get caught up in the hype of endless audio reviews.

@brunohebert1351 4 жыл бұрын

Great little setup. When you'll start considering upgrading, consider changing the cartridge first. Getting to a better cartridge will go a long way so a small investment. Also, search on KZfaq there are a lot of video tutorials on how to calibrate your cartridge properly (even if it's sounds fine out of the box, doesn't hurt to check it is properly set), this will also prevent unnecessary wear on your records.

@thaiphra2183 4 жыл бұрын

Oh no.... Take the blue pill now and escape this 'evil' whirlpool! 😂 Just kidding, enjoy your music, that's an awesome setup.

@midevil1980 4 жыл бұрын

I love how down to earth, logical, and sincere your videos are. Great advice by the way! 😉👍

@andrewrobinsonreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you

@BrianFairlamb 3 жыл бұрын

Excellent advice just getting into audio and watching a lot of your videos very helpful thanks for your time....

@quity919 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks you so much helps me to understand alot. I only bought a turn table and don't even have anything else and the choices and options are exhausting to understand

@great100m 4 жыл бұрын

you touched briefly on a mistake that I made - didn't buy an AVR that had pre-outs and now regret that very much.

@jeffsmiley9664 3 жыл бұрын

Excellent advice, thanks for your honest view and the great information.

@markscreename 4 жыл бұрын

I really appreciate your pragmatic approach to this hobby and the quick, to the point style of your videos. You earned another subscriber.

@gainstage4497 4 жыл бұрын

It made a lot of sense at 11:30 last night... well put sir, and love the videos even when I’m often in the studio or pro environments. We all love our home systems! No matter the eclectic collection of gear!

@realrohitupadhyay 4 жыл бұрын

Love your simplistic approach of explaining things for the ones starting this journey. Pls keep it up. Love from India

@user-gh9dd1fm9d 3 жыл бұрын

I’m a salesman at a local stereo shop in Mesa, AZ and I haven’t even finished the whole video and already know this is gonna help me tremendously with sales. ❤️ KZfaq needs more people like you!

@wabba67 4 жыл бұрын

Great video and good advice about not overspending instantly. I use(d) my computer for almost all of my listening, and the greatest change was when I went from speakers meant solely for computer use (Creative Inspire 5.1 or something; good speakers if you sit in a small space and perfectly at one place) to an amplifier with stereo speakers. It's like going from an old CRT television to a 4k 60" model: everything is basically still the same, but just bigger, better, and more detailed.

@Jack96993 4 жыл бұрын

Great advice! When I started out back in the early eighties and knowing I wanted a fairly good two channel stereo system. I had very little money to spend. Can't remember what I payed, but it wasn't much. So I found a used Marantz 2265B intagrated amp with a Teac cassett player ( no CD players yet) and Cerwin Vegas for speakers. So not bad for starting out. Later in the late eighties I upgraded to a Denon intagrated amp and Paraidgm SE9 speakers with a Philips CD player. My son still has that system today! Mid nineties I stepped it up by buying a VAC PA 100 100 KT88 amp with ARC LS 15 tube pre amp. I choose Paraidgm bookshelves speakers with their servo 15 sub woofer Not exspensive, but easy to drive and full range Ive had many full range speakers since then. But just recently I bought the Magnepan. 7's and for the money ($1,400) very hard to beat if you are after inner detail and sound stage! A cheaper option is the Magnepan LRS for $650!! But there are so many economic good sounding speakers out there! Keep in mind the Maggie's need space and will devour amplifiers with little power/ current. As for buying used its a very good option. Knowing my Maggie's needs lots of watts/current I found a used Spectron musical MK ll class D amp for $900 shipped to my door. This beast weights 52lbs! & output is 500watts@8ohm @4ohms 1,200watts@2ohms and will do 65 amps for 500 milliseconds I love the way this amp sounds with my Maggie's!! I just love it and have my fingers crossed it lasts for awhile

@beitie 4 жыл бұрын

Awesome advice as usual. Though it d also be kind of fun to learn about what Alex ended up doing. One of the things I love about your videos is that you have a much more realistic idea of the word "affordable" than some... Well, maybe realistic is the proper term, but you at least back up your logic with some financial numbers. By the way, the thumbnail used for the JBL L100 video was what turned me on to your channel. Keep being awesome.

@christinearmington 3 жыл бұрын

So Kristi, good job girl. Looking back a year shows your excellent contribution! 🤩

@stevenholt5484 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you Andrew, good solid advice. You talk about an adding amp to an existing integrated amp, but I believe it's far more important to be able to add a good preamp to an existing amplifier.

@stephenbrown7101 Жыл бұрын

Hello Andrew. It is very easy to get caught up with the latest technology . I know I have. One recent example is my Interest in audio receivers from the 1970s era. This began after I started listening to my albums on my stereo system. It had been 10 years or more since it was used. I have realized that what I have does not need to be replaced. I am looking forward to enjoying hearing the music from my original stereo system. - Nikko NR750 - Technics SL-QD22 - Advent Baby 2 speakers - Sony DVP- S7700 - Onkyo TA-RW255 Keep up the good work and looking forward to future audio videos.

@davep2945 4 жыл бұрын

Very good and considered advice from Andrew, as always. The part that many inexperienced with any hobby should heed is the bit about starting smaller to see if you really need or want more. How many people have or at one time had a garage/attic full of the unused gear left over from hastily embarked upon new hobbies. Yard sales, pawn shops and Goodwill stores are full of exercise equipment, mountain bikes, paddle boards, musical instruments and yes, audio equipment. Whatever endeavor du jour the intrepid owner quickly tired of. Even when folks keep, say, their expensive DSLR and four lenses they often fall into the habit of using the cell phone because it's simply more convenient. So, starting on the smaller side can definitely be a money saver in the long run. Beyond that just remember that speakers always make the biggest difference in your sound. Get the speakers that sound best to you first. And for that you HAVE to listen in person. If don't have stores close enough to drive to then buy from a reputable (authorized dealer) with a good return policy. Just a quick view of the Crutchfield website shows that currently you could get an Onkyo stereo receiver with two channel pre-outs for $400 or a Cambridge Audio stereo receiver without them but with a better power supply (theoretically) for the same price. Pair those with any offering from Elac, Polk, JBL, PSB or Wharfdale that you prefer for $200 to $500 a pair and for $$600 to $900 or less you are well on your way to a new level of audio enjoyment. Given you already have a turntable and the receivers have Bluetooth all you'd really need to add if desired is a CD player and a decent one can be had for $150 to $300 so now you're up to $1200 max. Add in a good powered sub from JBL, Polk or SVS and at most you're adding another $300 to $500. So now you're at $1700 on the high end and possibly as little as $1100 on the low end depending on what speaker, CD player and Sub you decided on. I know a lot of people out there would be very happy for the rest of their lives with a $1100 or so stereo system. You might be one of them which is why Andrews' advice to start small is so important.

@franklandgraff1190 3 жыл бұрын

This is great advice! I wish I had it when I bought my second system in the 1980's. My first was a Scott receiver, Scott turntable, Sanyo tape deck and AAL Appollo speakers(three way with 2 woofers). When I bought my second system, I got a Rotel 50wpc receiver and a Rotel CD player. A couple monthes later I added the equivalant Rotel amp and bi-amped in mono ever since. I still use the AAL speakers and thinking of upgrading them. I also want to add a turntable to the system, leaning toward a Fluance RT85.

@warbodean1226 3 жыл бұрын

I have started watching your channel as I love my music and the items that make that music go. I grew up in the late 60's early 70's in my introduction to music. From the previous sentence I am of the age to purchase what I want, but with saying that I am firm believer in buying what you can afford as you will be happier for it in the end.. I enjoy the modern era equipment, but I am addicted to the sound of the Kenwoods, Sansui's, Pioneers, & Marantz's of the 70's. The amber lit, fire place having room with acoustics to sit and listen to my vinyl and relax & chillin' with a couple of fingers of Glenfidditch with that smell of ozone in the air. There are only a few things in this world that I feel would top that moment in time. Thanx for carrying the love of high end sound to the modern era. Take care and keep it up.

@erniecf 4 жыл бұрын

Sprout / q acoustic speakers - done and done 😀

@freekderks1983 4 жыл бұрын

Recently went from vintage 70's speakers and amp gifted from family to my first high(er) end self bought setup. Spend a little bit more than I intended, but glad I did. Got myself a pair of B&W 707s2 speakers along with a NAD c368 (incl bluos module) integrated stereo amp. For most audiophiles this must definately be considered a 'beginner setup', To me this sounds like heaven and is exactly what I was looking for. This feels like an amazing start of my journey without ever regretting spending around €2000,- on my setup. I can only wonder if I would have felt the same if I would have spend twice as much on my first setup. I doubt it to be honest. The amount spend and the level of enjoyment are perfectly in balance for me!

@simonhenstock6244 4 жыл бұрын

I loved the video. It eloquently captures everything I've believed since I started my audiophile journey a couple of years ago. I started with a cheap Ion all-in-one and then a few months later upgraded to a Sony LX-300USB and a pair of £80 powered speakers (Kitsound Reunion) which is my current system. I recently visited a local Hi-Fi dealer with a view to upgrading my TT to a Rega Planar 1. I took 15 different records to test for various things as well as my speakers to see how they fitted with the Rega. My final conclusion was that the weak link in my system was the speakers and, if money had been no object, I would have bought the £1,200 amp and speaker combo the dealer recommended and passed on the Rega. I've spent the last few days scouring the internet for affordable amp and speaker solutions and I've more or less settled on the Onkyo A-9010 for the amp and a pair of Wharfedale Diamond 9.0 speakers (since Richer Sounds are selling them for £40 a pop and the specs don't look much different from those of the Q Acoustics that currently go for £250). I'll probably upgrade the speakers to something better in the long-term but I think the Wharfedales will do in the short-term. The other thing I need to do is acquire a Hi-Fi stand. I've been keeping my TT and speakers on a chest of drawers up until now but I've been led to understand that it's not a good idea to have an amplifier directly under the TT because of the heat the amp generates. I'll probably set up the Onkyo amplifier on my coffee table with my old Technics CD player initially until I find a suitable stand to house everything. It seems like the further you go into Hi-Fi, the more challenging and confronting it becomes and the more the risks go up, the more you have to lose from bad errors in judgement.

@mobilepsycho 3 жыл бұрын

Very good recommendations made in this video. Important to continue confirming that you really don't have to break the bank too much to get quality and most importantly enjoy your experience.

@waterlover 3 жыл бұрын

Such smoothness in explaining things and opening up ideas to newborns and letting them see that money wasted is not the best thing.

@Deepsouth34 3 жыл бұрын

Wow, I’m half way through and after watching TONS of audio videos, this is one of the best. This is perfect for a “half-pregnant” audiophile. You have a new sub.

@NotASingleGoodNameLeft 3 жыл бұрын

He is absolutely right. I just got my first setup: B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers, Cambridge audio AXR85 Integrated Amp and I added to that an iFi Zen DAC. It sounds amazing compared to all the soundbars/mono things I heard before. If you are new to this like me PLEASE check some stuff about room placement. I had terrible almost non existent bass because I was sitting in the middle of a square room getting all those reflections cancelling the sound. Once I moved my chair and speakers to a decent position the sound came to life.

@concurringlion3643 4 жыл бұрын

Good advice. I had Atoms for years that sounded fine. I got the itch for towers for more bass and volume. My setup was a Classe CAP151 integrated and Paradigm Studio Seven towers. What I came to realize is the louder it gets, not only do you need more space and headroom, but the room itself comes alive. I'm not rich and only have limited space and budget for (wife friendly)acoustic treatment. The system didn't come alive at reasonable volumes in my small space, but could rock your socks off. (Perhaps due to the vibration of the room). I now use a 60's HH Scott 272 tube integrated. I built small speaker cabinets on stands for a pair of Dayton Audio PS220-8 full range drivers. The sound is dynamic and lovely for acoustic jazz. I am able to send a center channel preamp out to the Classe to power two subs. I have plenty of adjustments with this setup and I no longer feel inclined to turn up volume for lack of involvement.

@SelvaNaga 3 жыл бұрын

one of the best video i have seen on this platform. Excellent!

@frankierodriguez8661 10 ай бұрын

I love this video. I watched everyone you made and I have to say that this is really good advise for someone who has not a real idea about what to do in terms of purchasing an hifi system. I'm not going to name names but there are channels out there that can make someone feel like if they have not right to listen to music in a decent way if they don't spend 10 grand minimum or make them fell like idiots for not be able to recognise what stereo or stage image or whatever the thing is related to the expert listener. There is always a way to tech people the good ways in life and you just did it here. Well done Andrew. I'm sure that will make some fella happy out there.

@carlotrese6996 3 жыл бұрын

i really like how this man share his knowledge and experience,. im just starting mine, vardus wharfedale 5.1 and pioneer 523 that i bought 2nd hand and very cheap,.

@DouglasMilewski 4 жыл бұрын

Family members often have stereo equipment that's sitting around. Start with free and work your way up. That's how I got started all those years ago.

@MichelLinschoten 4 жыл бұрын

Douglas Milewski and now you have a amazing Bose system yaaay you

@y.k.9705 4 жыл бұрын

@@MichelLinschoten So mean hahahahaha

@crushingbelial 4 жыл бұрын

Doesn't really matter the brand, per se. We all start somewhere. Some of us start with inherited gear or refer to existing gear/gear of someone else's as a baseline of where to go from there. Point really is to just start somewhere. Great commentary Doug!

@enterprismhouse 4 жыл бұрын

This is so true. Also look on craigslist. A lot of the time people are trying to get rid of this type of stuff when they get older or if they move and don't really know what it's worth or don't care.

@timhollis3390 4 жыл бұрын

Estate sales are good too.

@Musicman369 3 жыл бұрын

You make perfect sense on the start of a system, keep it low get all you want at that moment. Upgrade over time. 👍

@watcheswork1217 3 жыл бұрын

Great video. Really appreciate the honest advice.

@kylefischer7881 4 жыл бұрын

Great advice. I started with a pair of Klipsch R-15PM speakers because they gave me easy connections without needed the receiver/amplifier. This was to replace a soundbar. I then added a sub which was easy because of the sub output on the R-15PM. My system has evolved from that base point. I now have 5.1.2 home theater, but composed of budget used Klipsch Synergy lines. I've listened to Forte IIIs and want to get those in the future, paired with something like the NR1200. I agree with your advice because I was always thinking HT to start, but realized I enjoy good old stereo much more than expected. It's an evolution. Now that I have a better idea of what I like/want, that big purchase of "nicer" equipement feels much better and something I can work towards.

@inbikewetrust 3 жыл бұрын

Excited to watch more of your videos!

@jugalmistry18 3 жыл бұрын

Just watched this video and I am glad I have decided to go with Klipsch’s The Fives when they are available here in Canada. As always great video and very helpful for beginner like myself. Thank you 🙏

@VinodBaliga 3 жыл бұрын

Some, very good advice there, Andrew. Thank you!

@rodolfog2683 3 жыл бұрын

Andrew thank you for your time ! awesome video. Greetings from Mexico

@alwaysleadguruster 4 жыл бұрын

Fantastic knowledge and advice transfer. Ty

@photobriangray 4 жыл бұрын

I just helped a friend out with setting up a new system. I selected the KEF Q150s (massively on sale right now), Marantz NR1200 and a modest Def Tech sub to just fill the room. I also set up Sonos for whole house audio, hooked up his TV, a new Roku and connected his Blu-Ray and Phono for all the media. That Marantz is surprisingly strong.

@christopherjackson8958 4 жыл бұрын

I've gone through so many budget combinations over the last 20 years, and I've finally settled on a unique combination IMHO. A vintage quad 33 preamp fed into the power section of an Audiolab 8200a integrated (the 8200a has a dire preamp but amazing power section). This is then run into some Kef Concertos in which I've installed some modern crossovers. I like to see the system as a modular thing where you tinker as much as you want with individual pieces

@raulgarcia1718 4 жыл бұрын

Excellent advice. It is very easy to get carried away with this and most hobbies. I would also add some of the direct sales speaker brands to the list but for the novice just starting out the major brands are a safe place to start. The Sony core series bookshelf speakers have received a lot of praise since they came out and are well within most people’s budget especially when on sale as they usually are around the major holidays in the US.

@nofacemonster 4 жыл бұрын

This is great advice. I live in a place where it is a wasteland for audio gear. Anything high end price is equivalent to a one acre of land here. Local currency worth nothing when it comes to USD exchange and that makes everything sky high expensive. Even something like 400$ is very expensive here. I began my journey few years back with a pair of made in japan marantz LS850 tower speakers (nobody heard of), found them in a second hand electronics shop. I have been powering them with thrift store receivers until i recently sold everything except for the speakers because they have the sound i like. Now im planning on moving up to a NAD amplifier. All my sources are digital. This new found love for audio gear has led me towards headphones which i made my primary listening space using a HD6XX + little dot mk2 + fx audio dac x6. Like he says start small...! Then you will figure out completely different things you might like. Like myself from speakers to headphones. I don't even see a need for me to upgrade any further. Thanks a lot for your video sir.

@audiofun999 4 жыл бұрын

Years ago I started my hi-fi journey with $500 Audioengine 5 active speakers and a $100 DAC connected to my computer. Loved the sound. Over the years I gradually upgraded to a $10,000 system, that includes both digital and analog-front-end. Each upgrade solved a specific aspect of music reproduction I wanted to improve, so each time the result was noticeable and very satisfying. I never thought about upgrading until I felt I wanted to improve something in my system. One of the huge “upgrades” was finding perfect speaker placement, far away from the wall behind. That moment I felt like my system jumped 10x in value, the improvement was incredible. My current system sounds almost perfect to me and I am not planning the next upgrade until I become more experienced in critical listening and learn how to appreciate more expensive gear.

@fidobite3798 4 жыл бұрын

You are wise young padawan!

@Modm1 4 жыл бұрын

Lots of people upgrade and sell perfectly good 2nd hand hifi equip on-line. Just because its 20 years old doesn't mean that it does not deliver. My amp is 10 years old (budget Marantz) my tuner and Cd player are around the same and my speakers (all budget purchases at the time Marantz amp, tuner, cdplayer Tannoy R1 bookshelf and Revolver 350- inherited from me da- floorstanders and Aiwa turntable-my wife bought about 10 years ago). This system sounds perfect (turntable coming to the end of days though). I'm gonna upgrade speaker cable as this was budget csmbridge audio cable when i got it. Otherwise a ok. You'll definitely get fantastic sounding hifi 2nd hand and working great. Best of luck and enjoy

@mikes6844 3 жыл бұрын

What an exciting time to be entering into this world, for me it’s been a long one with life dictating priorities where money had to be spent. I agree with your advice buy a decent amp that will cater for future reasonable speaker upgrades. Trust your ears and use good retail outlets to put various elements together for you (mix and match). You don’t have to eat the elephant in one go! This is a journey and wish you luck. This has been a great episode - great advice👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻.

@stefanboeykens8874 3 жыл бұрын

A KZfaqr not selling products but good advice is always refreshing. Well said!

@rjs15570 4 жыл бұрын

From a experienced audiophile, I truly appreciate the ground up perspective and echo the prior comments on the no quick fix type of response. Music and stereo is more about the experience. Most with the stereo gene recall the first time they heard music through a great system. Thank you for taking the time to help navigate this worthy journey! Keep it up.

@hogey74 4 жыл бұрын

Great vid and great comments here. I also suggest going second hand. Any decent integrated amp and speakers you get will work for years and can go into another room or even a garage /work shop etc. They might be all you desire! Or they might get you started on what the good stuff is like... That basic nad and a pair of second hand Bowers and Wilkins...

@modestextreme 4 жыл бұрын

I purchased a small class-d mini amp about a year ago that drives small bookshelves pretty well. I think these are a great option for starting into a stereo setup. These also allow you to put a system pretty much anywhere you can set up the speakers.

@genki2genki 3 жыл бұрын

Andrew, I really appreciate your work! Total beginner here.

@archangelz558 3 жыл бұрын

That coffee in the background probably has gone cold 😕

@donalddeorio2237 4 жыл бұрын

I've been doing this since I was 17, I'll be 62 in December, music was always important to me. I set each of my sons off with a basic system. I've also helped some young people I worked with in Home depot to get started in audio. I would direct them to go listen first, usually at Best Buy they have some decent stuff. Then I'd select some used components from Ebay and we had a lot of success. Half of my system which is separates was purchased on Ebay. That's an option for those on a tight budget.

@homerhorowitz7649 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this! I actually have a similar setup with an orbit turntable, built in preamp and Yamaha studio monitors (powered bookshelf speakers used more in recording studios then hifi systems). I’ve had that set up for a few years and use it all the time. I recently added a headphone amp and pair of open back headphones and that really opened my eyes and ears to some of the things I’ve been missing. I think I’m going to take your advice and move the studio monitors to my computer. They sound much better at a very close range so that should be great. Then get a nice set of passive floorstanding or better bookshelf speakers and a receiver.

@michaelvaladez6570 3 жыл бұрын

I have had about 3 different systems before i become settled.It is always a thrill to see and hear new speakers, receivers etc..You know after years of buying , listening, research in looking for thee final system...you know when you have arrived with thee system of your choice.Do your research, find a friend or proffessional person that you can trust their opinion.Dont rush into anything that you think it might work for me.Get it home and find disappointment..You have to listen to what your system that you want..take your time, can i afford it, i like it for its features...saying I CAN LIVE WITH THIS.Good luck on finding your system.

@callancollins7708 4 жыл бұрын

started with dayton audio now with polk. love the journey

@sarahswanray9775 4 жыл бұрын

Great advice! I’d also throw Vanatoo T0 and T1 out there as solid powered speaker options. After 25 years of falling down the rabbit hole of expensive speakers... I’m blown away at what $500 can get you now.

@darkblueturbo 3 жыл бұрын

I started with a Cambridge Audio integrated twenty years ago. My sister appreciated it when I fell down the rabbit whole as she inherited all my old gear as it was upgraded.

@MrBonger88 4 жыл бұрын

I started out with a used Arcam integrated and pair of Jmlab Cobalt speakers. Was a great sounding system for the $ .

@josephpiedmonte 2 жыл бұрын

I run my Orbit through a separate preamp to a pair of powered Edifier book shelf speakers with about 3 feet of left/right speaker separation. This sounds great to me as I finally have the TT and PA on a separate surface than the speakers. This is the best my set up has ever been, and literally the only thing I changed was placement as I was cramming it all on top of a Kallax shelf because I had no room living in apartments. I have a cork platter mat on the way. This will be the first upgrade to my TT in six years. So, I agree with what you said. But I'd say make even simpler changes that require less money first. I think most are victims of spacial circumstance, you only have a set amount of room for your set up. Figuring out the best placement is key before spending the money on higher end equipment. Once you've figured that out I'd shoot for half the cost of what you suggested as your low end options. That's a ton of money for something that no one besides the person that spent the money is going to notice or point out.

@nickking8317 3 жыл бұрын

Very good advice I have been doing for a while but never changed things and am building my own rig with edifire speakers forget the model I’d start cheap for now and work out why it’s bad and not doing the job and think about changing stuff as you go

@renevw5812 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Andrew, i like your reaction. In my opinion there are no perfect speakers. Yes you have a perfect speaker for a particulair room and/or type of song/music. There are so many variables. And also in which mood am i. In a small room, i dont like very heavy big speakers.

@kachilda 4 жыл бұрын

I've been thinking and I actually watched your video for a second time and my conclusion is if money is no object your savings account is stocked your retirement is well on its way and you won't miss the money then spend it but if you're on a budget like most of us then a $20 receiver and a pair of fisher speakers from the Goodwill will do for starters you can upgrade a little at a time as the money and the equipment come available in the meantime be happy with what you have and be thankful for what you get

@marcosoliveira9000 4 жыл бұрын

Totally agree with your advice. Start small, grow big.

@Keithwithfever 3 жыл бұрын

Great advice! Audio is a hobby for most of us here. You enjoy the hobby, or any other hobby, from learning and making improvement. I have a rich friend who spent $200k to have his setup professionally done. Yeah, it sounds amazing. But he gets bored quickly. The process is more important than the result.

@davedunn7759 3 жыл бұрын

Like building LEGO's

@404010ful 2 жыл бұрын

good video My DENON AVR has preamp outs to go to other amplifiers if you want to. its good to start small and build up from there. I still have my system audio speakers from 2002 which I still like them . For surrounds I use orbs from orb audio

@aaronfrench8322 3 жыл бұрын

Great advice!

@sidvicious3129 4 жыл бұрын

This is great information that Andrew is giving here, he is explaining this from many different angles. I would suggest looking at NAD 316bee integrated amp or a Marantz equivalent like the 6005 or 7005 series. For speakers the Elac b6 version 200 dollars and maybe a Marantz even or 6000 series CD player it sounds like you have a turntable with the orbit so he would have a decent system without a lot of cost, well below the 4000 for the JBLs. This will allow him to see if it’s for him. I almost forgot I just saw a Marantz 7005 integrated and a 6005 streamer for sale for a little over 1000 dollars for both at Music Direct. It’s a great place to shop and you get 60 days to try out your stuff and if you don’t like it you can return it. 60 days is more than enough time to decide if it’s for you or not. All products that I mentioned are at Music Direct and some are demo or open box with the full manufacturers warranty and 60 day trial. No I don’t work for them, but I have been a customer for years. Set a budget for yourself and the components mentioned you could get into for 1500 dollars to 1800 dollars and you are basically all in. Like Andrew said don’t start out big because you limit your growth especially if your resources are limited and if you don’t like it you will take a beating if you try to sell it. Good luck and great topic Andrew as usual. Andrew you got to get down to Axpona when you can.

@benjamin5909 3 жыл бұрын

Great video. Sound advice. I have the onkyo tx rz 3100. I want to get emotiva xpa line amplifiers. Would the onkyo make a good pre amp? I have only ever done receivers and no experience with using a dedicated amplifier. Please give some advice in my upcoming journey deeper into the audio world.

@bigmike4133 Жыл бұрын

I went from sound bars to an entry-level 7.1 tsx-polk system and AVR in 2014 and I'm just now starting 2023 with an entry level 7.2.4 focal system with emotiva amps and separate processor. I love movies and TV but have never been an audio file, so I'm wondering if I went too far this time as I'm starting to set everything up. But it looks cool and I'm super excited, so I'll find out soon if it was worth it.

@mahmudhashim1185 3 жыл бұрын

Been an audiophile for years, I remember how I got started and the many mistake that I made. First this video gave you and honest review, he and audiophile like many of us and he dosent look at you and wonder of how much dollars that you might be spending like the sales staff in the audio shop. However being having less knowledge and tight budjet, you should also consider used equipment..... Music have many genre, what is your prefered music. This will determine which speakers to go for. Enviroment is important. Whether you intend to set up in a living room, bedroom or basement or others. The ideal space should be comfortable to you and whoelse is living with you. Speakers should idealy blent with the rest of your furniture. Remember there is no perfect system setup. You are building the setup you peference is the upmost important. The sound should be to you liking. Others may have their opinion but goes with your own choice. Hope you are happy and wellcome to the group.

@EM-ke8is 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the reality info appreciate your truth , would you do a review of the Edifier s3000 pro

@DRC92 3 жыл бұрын

Just bought a Marantz 7000n, B&W 606 S2 anniversary speakers. My first real set up, really keen to get it, should take a month, gonna be a long wait!

@thomasward00 3 жыл бұрын

I'm setting up a small office system, going with a basic Cambridge AXA25 amp and SX50 Bookshelves.

@jamesknapp9615 2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely solid advice! But you should also include information on what to do if they just want the L100s

@arena_rock_man9030 3 жыл бұрын

I started off with Fluance SX6s, a topping E30 DAC, and using the pass-through on a hand me down Yamaha AV receiver as my amp. It's been great but I'm looking forward to adding a standalone clean Class D or H digital amp or an inexpensive A/B class amp and a pre-amp to the setup. Of course, I could always push the easy button and get either an NAD or Emotiva integrated and just call it good...

@jimm8619 3 жыл бұрын

I generally like the Emotiva brand for "bang of the buck" hifi equipment. You can get the TA-100 Integrated Amp, B1+ Bookshelf Speakers, SE8 Subwoofer and all the necessary cables for around than $1000.

@cirenosnor5768 4 жыл бұрын

Great advice was given and just discovered your channel. Looking forward to checking out your other clips Don’t forget the Rotel line for great integrated amplifiers. That including older used models and a pair of used B&W speakers is a great foundation for anyone who wants a entry level high end setup. For many, it’s good enough without desiring anything “better” Then as you said: can use a preamp out and upgrade to a separate power amp. Next upgrade to dedicated preamp and move away from a integrated completely. Many integrated amps have phono stages but they’re afterthoughts abd don’t sound very good. Depending on the budget, a integrated without a phono could be fine and add a separate phono amplifier or buy a turntable with a built in phono amp. I personally think a good separate phono amp will sound better than tables without a internal amp.

@TexasScout 4 жыл бұрын

If you can find one, the old Marantz 1060 integrated amplifier is a great place to start. It has an honest 30 W per channel both channels driven .01% THD. It does have the preamp outputs amplifier input. are used one for years it even filled an entire auditorium was sound for my daughters dance recital. The capacitors finally gave out and I had to get rid of it.

@sudheendrar 7 ай бұрын

Nice advise. I am looking at a pair of bookshelf speakers to augment an LG 65" OLED TV with terrible speakers. Have a Yamaha HTR 5760 AVR which I can repurpose to drive the speakers. Staying away from the soundbars. Since the TV is in a cabinet, speakers wider than 10 inches and with rear ports may not work. Any recommendations?

@kajakun 4 жыл бұрын

My dad gave me his small LP collection. I then bought an AT-LP60 to play them using a Sony soundbar which also connected to my TV. Not much but my parents do appreciate that they can listen to their favourite LPs. I'm moving the turntable and LPs to their reading room and am looking to buy a PreSonus Eris 3.5 speaker for the turntable but am not so sure.

@y.k.9705 4 жыл бұрын

NED makes great stuff. I had a high end vhs player/recorder, used it for music. It was just great.

@QoraxAudio 4 жыл бұрын

Who's NED? NAD also makes great midrange stuff.

@meak84 4 жыл бұрын

All very good advice I have only recently found your channel and have been enjoying it a lot. However I watch KZfaq on my tv running through my system and because you forgot to balance this one I almost thought I had blown a channel in my amp lol. But thanks for the great advice

@bruffyb3796 4 жыл бұрын

I've got an audio technica AT-LP3 hooked up to a Denon Dt-1... That's it, less than £500 and it sounds great.

@senseisprotege3632 2 жыл бұрын

I went from a Yamaha 5.1 home theater to Klipsch Sixes. I’m wondering, can I wire the Sixes into that Yamaha? I’m sure it’s fine as it has a preamp. But I also wonder/worry that they wouldn’t get along. Thanks & great topic.

@donreinholz8121 3 жыл бұрын

Great video Andrew. I have JBL Stage tower speakers that I bought about 7-8 years ago and they Rock pretty good and I got them for $300 for the pair.

@rvickner 4 жыл бұрын

Get the Outlaw Audio RR2160. Its a Beast. Has a decent DAC, 110WPC and Pre outs. Built like a tank

@markostendorf1122 4 жыл бұрын

Jooce81 totally agree I have one....paired with JBL Studio 530BK which I got on sale and a Klipsch Subwoofer I had in another system.... fits the bill for great sound at a modest-ish price

@mark4406 3 жыл бұрын

I have one paired with Wharfedale Denton speakers and I love it. It's a great combo that will hold you over for years while saving up for something big.

@slumgullianpass 3 жыл бұрын

Got the Outlaw 2160 mark 2 a week ago,paired with Q Acoustics 3050 floor standers. Right now it sounds like shit. Hoping after a decent burnin for better. It’s just for a great room we use occasionally so it’s no big deal. However My bedroom has a new Willenston R8 amp paired with Elac 2 Uni Fi 5.2 bookshelve speakers that after about 8o hours of runtime sound freaking incredible. They leave me in awe when trumpets play.