building new system

[thib4]

Good day,

This is my first post, found the forum while looking for stereo advice. I have an old Sony system STR-D711 it has served well but am now looking for a good quality system. I am only going to listen to CD's so do I dont require a tuner. I am looking at the NAD C370 amp to start, I heard it with a set of Paridymn speakers and it was very nice. I am looking for clarity above all, distortion really bugs me and I am not a big bass fan. Looking for thoughts on the NAD and a set of speakers that would suite it. The room I will have this system is about 40 x 25 combination kitchen, family area and dining room. One store suggested the Totem Hawks, very expensive and really don't know if they are worth it. My other question is how important is the CD player, I really don't know. If the music is recorded on a CD is the quality the same regardless of the player? Just like to thank all that respond to my junior level questions.

Thib

 

[jaxvon]

The quality of a CD player is important, but nowhere near the importance of the speakers. What do you get when you buy a good player? Low noise levels, good build quality, reliability, better looks, etc. The C370 is a solid choice for an integrated amp. As for speakers, you may wish to check out some other brands to really get a feel for what you like and want. I recommend that you also audition:

PSB
Energy
Phase Technology
Klipsch (Reference series only)
B&W

And any others that catch your eye. Be wary of white van speakers, though this should be not an issue in any reputable hi-fi shop. Also, don't let them sell you expensive cables. That is money that can be much better spent on speakers.

 

[jcPanny]

Speakers

I would definately look for floorstander type speakers to fill your large, open area. Also add Axiom to your list for evaluation.

 

[beta5alphamu]

Great reply jaxvon

 

[thib4]

Thanks for reponses

Wow,

Did a trip around the world checking out the speakers that were recommended. The PSB's seem to be the most accessable to me and look pretty nice. The 4 ohm rating, is this going to wear my Nad C370 out when I buy it? All the info I have read leans towards 6-8ohm ratings. I would think that the 4's would be more clear to listen to than the 8's is this correct? Checked out the Axiom's but not being able to listen to them is a major failing. I don't imagine that someone who has them will admit that they are inadequite, mail order< I don't really just it. I would like to spend around 2-2500 on the speakers or the wife will find out and kill me. Anymore suggestions would be appreciated. I tried to respond to individual emails but it seems I can't so thanks again

Thib

 

[Tritonman]

Wow,

Did a trip around the world checking out the speakers that were recommended. The PSB's seem to be the most accessable to me and look pretty nice. The 4 ohm rating, is this going to wear my Nad C370 out when I buy it? All the info I have read leans towards 6-8ohm ratings. I would think that the 4's would be more clear to listen to than the 8's is this correct? Checked out the Axiom's but not being able to listen to them is a major failing. I don't imagine that someone who has them will admit that they are inadequite, mail order< I don't really just it. I would like to spend around 2-2500 on the speakers or the wife will find out and kill me. Anymore suggestions would be appreciated. I tried to respond to individual emails but it seems I can't so thanks again

Thib

With the NAD you should be ok with the 4ohm load as the NAD has an Impedance Sensing Circuit aka ISC. As far as 4 or 8 being clearer than the other is not true. You cant place a 4ohm next to an 8ohm and tell the difference. One would be louder than the other yes, based on the draw on the amp. But if you were to go to 2 peoples homes who had each version you would not be able to say..Ya i can tell you are using 4ohm speakers.

AS far as other brands of speakers..you could try some of these..some of which have already been mentioned.

Axiom, Home Theater Direct Level III's, Polks RTi/LSi series, Rockets, Swans, B&W, Paradigm, Klipsch

The mail order ones are very reputable. They generally come with a 30-45day money back guarantee and a 5 year warranty..and most of them have superb customer service.

As far as Subs are concerned some popular ones are HSU, SVS, Velodyne.