Mp3 in the home: B&W Zeppelin/SoundDock 10 or receiver/bookshelf speakers?

[Dante Rising]

I know nothing about audio hardware. But I've decided to spend about $600 on a sound system dedicated to listening to mp3s in my home. I could use some assistance from the local audiophiles so that I get the most out of my money.

I love the sound I've heard from the Bowers and Wilkens Zeppelin ($599), which is said to be slightly better than the Bose Sounddock 10.


However, I'm wondering if I would get better sound at a less expensive price by going with an actual receiver and bookshelf speakers, coupled with a dock. I can get a very good deal on the Klipsch XB-10s, and couple it with a modest receiver, such as the ones listed below. I would like to stay below $200 for the receiver:


Yamaha RX-397 100 Watt Natural Sound AM/FM Stereo Receiver

Onkyo TX-8255 Stereo Receiver

Sony STR-DH100 Stereo Receiver

Any insight or suggestions would be greatly appreciated, as I truly know nothing about speakers, receivers, etc. Pioneer? Yamaha? Onkyo? Sony? I have no idea what is considered "quality" in this area. The only thing I DO know is that the speakers I've always been impressed by have been either Boston Acoustics or Klipsch. Is it even worthwhile to spend much money on a receiver for compressed music files? Are the speakers more important? Basically, is it better to go with a top-of-the-line dedicated ipod speaker instead of a mid-grade system that has been pieced together when working with high bitrate compressed music?

Thanks guys!

 

[riker1384]

There are different bitrates with mp3s with different quality levels, but I think you're usually better off with the best speakers you can get. I've enjoyed 128K AACs over some nice speakers.

A pair of good bookshelves should give you better sound quality, although of course they won't be as compact and easy to move as a one-piece system. If you're going to always keep the system in one place then I'd recommend the receiver and speakers. The docks are better if you want a semi-portable system. The speakers make the biggest difference in sound. I haven't heard the speakers you're looking at, but I'd recommend trying to hear some Infinity, PSB or B&W speakers and see if you like them.

I would consider looking for a used stereo receiver on Craigslist. I see people selling decent brand-name ones for $50 or less, in my area at least. That would leave you more money to buy better speakers, or maybe add a subwoofer.

One thing to remember is that the Sounddock or Zeppelin will let you use a remote to control the iPod (if that's what you're using). With a receiver you'll usually need an add-on (from Apple or others) if you want to do that, but I think you already know that since you mentioned "receiver and bookshelf speakers, coupled with a dock."