(Part 2) Best products from r/BudgetAudiophile

Someone yesterday asked about $200 speakers. I'll just copy and paste that here, but I'll change one thing. I recommend the fluance signature series if you're spending that much money. Also, save up and get a Dayton sub 1000. Enjoy:

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I'll make a list of stuff you need. For the best "bang for your buck" in the $200ish price range.

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Speaker wire. Amazon Basics makes great stuff. If you want, you can get 100 feet of it for an extra $2 I think. You can get those monoprice banana plugs if you want. They just help if you're going to be switching speakers around a lot.

Simple wire stripper. Should work just fine.

Cable to plug it in. That'll just plug the amp into a computer. And that cable is amazing quality. For real. I don't know what it is about it, but the moment I touched that cable I knew it was special. This isn't a joke either. You'll understand when you get one. Trust me.

50 watt per channel amp. This thing will be more than enough. I just like it because it is open box, so cheap. The same one new on amazon is $65. If you want to order from amazon, you can just get the smsl sa-36a. Same amp, just 20 watts per channel. Which, again, is plenty.

[Here's that cheaper smsl amp] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_U2NSBbTRHGFS5). I've got a few of them. They're great. This is what I'd go for if the other one is sold out.

Cheap but good little amp. I don't have one of these because I'm not a fan of the looks, but they get great reviews and a lot of people really like them.

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Speakers:

Miccas. These things are nice for that price. In this price range, you really won't be getting anything better unless you go DIY.

Fluance SX6. These guys are big, but they throw a good amount of sound and some pretty deep bass for a pair of bookshelf speakers. Careful, they're pretty big.

Pioneer. These things are decent, but I think the Fluances would be better for this price. The SX6s throw more bass, which is good if you're not getting a sub. However, these are smaller.

Fluance signature series. I know, you said your budget is only $200, but you said if you need to spend more, then you will. These will sound better than all of the other speakers linked, however, that's not why they're here. I put them here for two reasons. The first is that they're front ported. Most people that are new to speakers might put them up against a wall or close to it, not understanding that the port needs some room to breathe. These have front ports so that's not a problem. The second reason, just look at them. If you really care about looks, these ones are the ones. They're beautiful. (My opinion obviously).

Oof almost forgot. Pleaae don't place the speakers directly on your desk.

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That's a lot. I'll sum it up with my opinion and why.

Amp: smsl sa36a. For close range, you don't need anything with more power. This thing will do whatever you need for bookshelf speakers.

Speakers: micca mb42x. Why? Here's why: for this price range, you won't notice a huge difference in any speakers, unless you get some bad ones. So, get the cheapest ones you can. Later on, if you can afford to upgrade them, you'll probably want to do that. Then you'll have a pair of $80 speakers that you don't need rather than a pair of 130 speakers that you don't need. Another reason I would pick the miccas is because they punch above their price range. Most people say they sound more like a pair of $125 speakers rather than a pair of $80 speakers. So, for real, they're good. Also, they're the smallest of the bunch.

Or, build a pair of C Notes and get something way better than any of these.

Hope this helps!

So many points to hit on, I'll try and help with that I can. I'm in the US so I'm not really sure what the pricing and availability is in your area, so my help will be somewhat limited haha.

If you are wanting to do a 2.0 system with the option to upgrade to 5.1 in the future, much of your budget will be going towards a 5.1 receiver. The suggestions mentioned in question 1 are good suggestions, but you also need to take a look at your TV and see what audio out connections are available. Some TV's, like mine for instance, only offer an optical out for audio. If this is the case for you, then the SMSL SA-60 will not work without a DAC in between. Something like the Fiio D3 would suffice. Also, chances are if you go this route, you will lose the ability to control the volume with the TV remote. Getting something like the SMSL Q5 Pro instead might be a better option. It can accept multiple audio inputs (digital and
analog, so no need for a DAC), and also has a cheap remote for controlling volume and other stuff. You can also use the Q Acoustic Speakers with these amps as well. However, either of these amps would have to be replaced in the future if you decide to upgrade to 5.1. But they would be great for a 2.1 setup.

In the US, with that budget (300 euro = $335) and a future 5.1 in mind; I would get a Pioneer VSX-530 Receiver ($200), and the Micca MB42X Speakers ($90). Then I would start saving for a subwoofer like the Bic F12 or ML Dynamo 300 (depending on the size of the room). Once I had a sub, I would then save up for better bookshelfs (3 of them...something like empteks or elacs or who knows what), and relocate the Micca MB42X's to the rear. This would be a a respectable 5.1 setup that will blow away pretty much any home theater in a box.

Anyways, hope I was of at least some help. Best of luck with your setup!

I've heard of their 3020, but supposedly the Concept 20 is the same driver in a different cabinet? The What HiFi review makes it sound like the cabinet alone is worth the price difference. That could be true, but I am not going to rely on their word for it. I think it would be best if you could arrange for an audition or, better still, buy them with a good return policy so you can send them back if you are not satisfied with them. This is the most reliable way you could test out 2 speakers because you know best what is important for you. As for bass, it is also part of the music and I feel a faithful reproduction is essential to the experience. I do not own a subwoofer myself because I am satisfied with my MB Quart 490 and their 7.5" woofer. The bass is present but not overpowering at all and it makes all the difference when listening to Pink Floyd or The Coup.

Anyway, what I meant was the audio files will be converted from digital to analog at one point. In your case, it would be the PC's onboard solution. Now, depending on your PC, your onboard solution could be great or it could suck (distortion/constant hum etc.) ! To get around this some people use the digital output on their PC (USB/HDMI/Optical) and the conversion is performed using another device. Since usually stereo amplifiers do not have any way of accepting digital input, the go-to choice is a separate DAC like Fiio D03K / Behringer UCA202. Some people also a get a headphone DAC like Fiio E10K because they need a portable amp for their headphone in addition to a DAC. Others may need more than just a DAC - for example there could be a need to take the HDMI input and send the video to a TV and the audio to speakers. This is where a receiver comes in. A receiver is basically an amp + many more options for inputs, but it could be overkill if you only need a DAC. Used receivers could be cheap, though, and they are quite popular because of the input options you get. Goes without saying that you may not need a separate DAC at all, but just something to consider.

Phew! Hope that helps! :)

I'm not saying your Edifiers aren't fine, but that it's not what they were designed for so you'll need to be a bit unorthodox when adding a subwoofer. I'll give you 4 options:

1. Keep the Edifiers and pick up a Pioneer SW-8MK2. This will cost the same as the Yamaha sub you were looking at. Connect your current RCA cable to a volume knob like this one. Split your signal coming out of there with RCA to Dual RCA cables and You're good to go.
   
   
2. Spend your money on a great pair of speakers and forget a sub for now. This will offer the best sound by far and you can always add a sub down the line. Maybe you find a subwoofer for sale locally. A pair of JBL LSR305 speakers would fit the bill here. You can add a cheap mixer if you wanted more sources and convenient volume control.
   
   
3. Purchase a pair of powered speakers with a sub output like the Kanto YU4. These are super convenient since you just connect a sub through an RCA cable and you're good to go. You can still fit in a cheap sub within your budget like the cheapo monoprice or the Acoustic Audio RWSUB-10. If you wanted to spend the extra bit for the pioneer subwoofer, that's great too.
   
   
4. Purchase a passive system with a separate amplifier. Assuming you don't have infinite space on a desk or something then pick up an SMSL Q5. Pick up passive speakers like the Pioneer BS22 or Micca MB42X. Choose any of the aforementioned subs that fit in your budget. Pick up cheap speaker wire to connect your speakers to your amp, and use an RCA cable to have your amp send signal to your sub.

You want a setup for house parties (rap/EDM) for $250-500 might as well call it $500.

1. Don't get powered monitors...just get passives and an AVR or Stereo receiver.
   
   
2. What are your sources? If you're going to hook up a TV or digital sources I would just get an AVR and be done with it.
   
   
3. I would look at towers or efficient books since you want this for house parties.
   
   
4. A sub is a must and I would forget everything you mentioned save for the Dayton 12"
   
   I don't do used recommendations but you're welcome to shop the used market there are some great deals out there.
   
   Here is what I would do.
   
   

• Speakers- Klipsch RM15 $125 These will get super loud with a 94dB efficiency or you could sub out the Klipsch (harsh tweeters in my book) for the BIC DV62 $110. The BIC won't get as loud but will do pretty good with a 90dB efficiency.
  
  
• AVR - Pioneer VSX530 refurb $130
  
  
• Sub -BIC F12 $220 - The F12 is about the best sub for that price range. You'll want the better sub for the house parties.
  

>Probably both but mostly music. A movie every once ina while through the airplay function on the apply tv. So living room.
>
>400 to 500 for amp and speakers. The lower the better. Currently using a 15 yr old sound bar.

AV Receiver: For use with 2 speakers and have the option to add more later for surround sound or better or boosted dialog with a center speaker. Also gives you a high pass crossover for the speakers and room correction speaker setup with the included calibration microphone.

• Denon AVR-S540 $150 5.2, one year factory warranty, with HDMI 2.0B and HDCP 2.2 for 4K video switching.
  
• Denon AVR-S640 $200 5.2 adds Audyssey MultEQ room correction / speaker calibration.
  
• Denon AVRX1400 $250 7.2/5.2.2, adds the better Audyssey MultEQ XT, or a new one half price for $300 with a 3 year factory warranty.
  
  Speakers:
  
  Recommendations from AverageJoeAudiophile and r/HTBuyingGuide.
  
  Internet Manufacturer Direct can be a good bang for the buck with 30 day in home trials.
  
  
• Ascend CBM-170s for the neutral sound with a linear frequency response. $300 + $30 shipping. My speaker of choice for under $400.
  
• Emotiva Airmotive B1 area a great buy at $230, recently reduced from $300.
  
• Wavecrest Audio HVL-1, and order on sale here at Ascend $80 each + shipping. Budget "Ascends". To me, they beat the popular KEF Q100s. Like most bookshelf speakers, best with a subwoofer.
  
• HSU HB1
  
• HTD
  
  On sale:
  
  
• Infinity Reference R162 $175.
  
• Klipsch RP-160M $330.
  
  DIY: 5" C-Notes $100, great starter DIY speaker. Add around $75 to $100 for tools and supplies. Kits includes pre-cut cabinets. Glue, solder, paint, assemble. Comparable to built speakers costing twice as much.
  
  Subwoofer: To add later.
  
  Low budget 12" Dayton SUB-1200 $150, 12" Bic F12 $220, and try a coupon code.
  
  On sale 10": DEFINITIVE TECHNOLOGY PROSUB 1000 $300.
  
  Better subwoofers:
  
  
• 10" SVS PB-1000 - Outlet $400.
  
• 10" HSU VTF-1 MK3 hybrid tune-able, $455 shipped.
  
• 12" SVS SB-1000 sealed $500, open box $417.
  
• 12" Rythmik L12 sealed, direct servo, $540.
  
• 12" HSU VTF-2 MK5 hybrid tune-able $610 shipped.
  
  Speaker wire:
  
  Pure Copper Oxygen Free 16 Guage Speaker Wire 50 ft. and self adjusting wire strippers. Also DFWCableConnection or Blue Jeans Cable.
  
  Speaker Stands:
  
  Audio Advisor and most are also available at Amazon. Monolith by Monoprice heavy duty, half price of name brand equivalent.
  
  Home Audio Guides: Intro to home stereo systems • Zeos Tutorials, Diagrams and Videos • r/Audiophile Getting Started • Beginner's Guide to Home Audio • AverageJoeAudiophile's Guides • Speaker Placement for Stereo Music Listening
  
  Home Theater Guides: r/HTBuyingGuides FAQ • How to Set Up a Basic Home Theater System - Lifewire • How to Set Up Your Home Theater Receiver • Speaker Placement for Home Theater

First step: have you read noaudiophile's reviews? He does very thorough reviews on a lot of budget speakers, and has corrections for many of the popular options. His corrections for the Infinity P163s that I'm currently using made them sound like completely different speakers.

First let's start with powered options:

The Micca PB42X would be a good option. They are basically a powered version of the MB42X so you don't need to purchase a separate amp. Also in the similar realm that get recommended here a lot would be the Swans D1010 and the Edifier R1280T.

Personally I'm a bigger fan of passive speakers, as you get a lot more options to expand your system.

Pioneer BS22 bookshelf speakers are great and have gone on sale quite a bit lately for $70-80/pair.

Dayton B652 I am currently using as my surround speakers, but people rave about them as a budget desktop option

Micca MB42X also get great reviews.

You could also go used for your speakers, but sometimes it can be hard to parse through all the junk out there if you don't know what you're looking for.

Take any of those passive options and pair them up with an inexpensive amp like this SMSL or Lepai for a good budget setup.

I would also recommend checking your local Craigslist or Facebook marketplace for a used receiver, you could pick up a very decent one for just a few bucks and have a great starting setup. This will give you a lot more powerful amp, and the ability later to easily add a subwoofer or expand to surround sound. Personally I'm using an older Sony home theater receiver at my desk, it's old enough that it doesn't have HDMI or optical inputs, someone was just giving it away so I snagged it.

for the price, the LSR305 and sub is the best value at the $500 mark

you used euro, so I'm gonna link german amazon. Klipsch R-15M is a decent speaker. there's probably better for €200, but you won't be disappointed. the Auna AV2 looks pretty nice, but I've never actually used or seen too much of it, but the reviews seem good and it looks pretty good. Pioneer A-10 is also a good option. those two plus tax will probably hit your budget (not sure how much tax is), but if you have some money, it might be worth grabbing a sub

you can also try a different pair of powered speakers. these Edifiers are pretty decent as well, and they're well within your budget if you don't actually want to spend the full 500

If you want to go the passive route, a decent setup would probably be around $150-200. If you want something with a tuner, a receiver would be a good choice over an amp.

Right now, you can get this Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver on Amazon or Best Buy for $119 which is an excellent deal. Usually this receiver costs $149 or more and Yamaha makes some of the best budget stereo receivers. Sometimes you can find this Insignia Stereo Receiver for about $99, but right now it costs higher than the Yamaha and is not worth it. Those are probably your best deals on receivers right now that won't break the bank. Most other receivers will cost you about $150 to start.

You can find a lot of good speakers under $150 and a few under $100. What you need to do is sign up for Fry's Electronics newsletter. Just this last week they sent a coupon code in my email to get the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR speakers for $58! Super good deal. Normally cost just over $100. They are sold out now, but this deal pops up quite often and they are well worth that price.

Here are more great speakers around $100 or less:

Micca MB42X speakers - $90.

Polk T15 - $100

Dayton Audio B652 - $30

Dayton Audio B652-AIR - $44

JBL Arena B15 - $79

This will definitely be the cheaper option but there are still some newer stereo receivers with phono inputs. I have an Onkyo TX 8020 and it has a phono input. Looks like all/most of the Onkyo stereo receivers include a phono input.

But yeah OP, check your local Craiglist/Kijiji/whatever, people sell their older receivers for cheap all the time. That will definitely be the cheaper option if you are okay with going used. Receivers tend to age pretty well, just check to make sure it works.

EDIT: pretty much all receivers will have a headphone out on the front. It's often a 6.3 mm, but you can pick up a 3.5 to 6.3 adapter for pretty cheap.

As for aux in, a lot of stereo receivers will only have RCA inputs, but you can also pick up a 3.5 aux to RCA cable for cheap too. Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D5H8JW0

At the bare minimum include the following things if you want help and/or advice choosing or setting up amplifiers, speakers, DACS, etc

• Budget: a little more or less than 100 u$s? I'm not sure
  
• Country: Argentina. If the product cost more than 50$, I have to pay 50% of the excedent as taxes
  
• I can buy from: Any amazon, b&h, I think almost everywhere
  
• Use: Audioslave, RHCP, Rock in general, series,
  
• Where: A desk in a Room
  
• Space: 3.67m x 3.88m, NOT really loud, I will be most of the time 1.5m away from the speakers and occasionally on my bed, or taking a bath or cooking in the next room.
  
  Optional but also helpful
  
  
• Powered, passive, or no preference: no preference, I've heard you can get a better quality with the same budget with passive speakers.
  
• Any size limitations for either speaker or amp: no
  
• To upgrade later?: not really
  
• Pref certain way of sounding (Bright/forward, smooth/laid back, neutral, etc): that immersive experience (everyone here would call it the commercial one?) but I'm not sure, I don't have any speaker to listen and compare.., I only have a HyperX Cloud 1 headsets and I won't be downloading FLAC at least for the moment, I only listen from Spotify (music) or Bluray (series and movies) most part of the time
  
  I've made my search but I have no idea about this so... I need speakers for the pc on the desk in my room. Mostly for series, music, games. I will not update the system soon after this purchase and I don't have anything right now besides my current headphones.
  
  I'm from Argentina so I have 2 disadvantages: I have absolutely no idea what I'm buying because there are no places near me to try any of these speakers. For every purchase, if I spend more than 50$ I will have to pay 50% of the excedent. That means, I can buy an amp of 30$ without paying taxes or if it exists the possibility to buy a pair of headphones by separate (1 and 1 making a pair) I will probably not pay taxes... Are there places willing to do that?
  
  This is my room: https://imgur.com/a6UVKYU
  
  Questions:
  
  - What would you recommend and why?
  
  - My motherboard doesn't have bluetooth. I want to connect my pc the 99% of the time and maybe my phone 4-5mts away. What is my best option?
  
  - I think I can buy from any amazon. I've found better prices for some of the products there. Editing..
  
  Active:
  
  Edifier R1280T 156$ - £89.99
  
  Edifier R980T 115$ - £59.99
  
  Swan Speakers - D1010-IVB (unavailable? the 2nd best option?)
  
  Passive:
  
  Micca PB42 60$
  
  Micca PB42X 110$
  
  Pioneer SP-BS22-LR 93$ (the best ones? 1st best option?)
  
  Dayton Audio B652 28$
  
  Dayton Audio B652-AIR 45$
  
  Amp:
  
  Lepy LP-2020A Class-D 23$ (I want to connect my phone occasionally without disconnecting my pc, should I get a bluetooth or wifi amp?)
  
  ​
  
  ps: sorry for the long post and thanks in advance

There aren't a ton of options at that size that are passive, it's a small market obviously and it seems like it's either super cheap and bad and/or outrageously expensive.

Cambridge Audio SX50 sound great and are smaller than average bookshelves, might still be too big.

They also make the Minx Min 22, this one I haven't heard though but it's definitely the right size and under budget.

Monitor Audio makes little cube speakers but they're somehow almost $400, and more for satellite surround use.

Super budget and also a little bigger would be the Micca MB42's for $60

​

If you feel like hunting around audiogon/craigslist/usaudiomart you might be able to find something better. The PSB Alpha LR1 was great. Realistic Minimus 7's are legendary and with a little tweak to the crossover are surprisingly great.

​

Even though the speaker says 40hz - 20,000 or whatever it’s not gonna play the 40-80-100 hz like a sub will. Varies with each brand or series of speaker you have to look at the graphs on the speakers to see where it starts dropping off and A sub would be better.
With AV receiver or a fancier 2 channel once you have a sub you can set the speakers to play at 100 Hz and and up etc. and the sub handle everything 100 hz and below and generally the speaker sounds better when not trying to do the low frequencies. So adding a sub and doing your adjustments in the settings in the receiver can make your regular speaker sound better and the sub produce the low frequencies better than the speakers were.

Edit : I think it was Jamo that has sub amp issues not Fluance .?

The better more expensive subwoofers will have a flatter frequency response - Playing all the subwoofer frequencies better than a cheaper sub. cheaper subs generally have a range of frequency - say 50-70 hz -it plays better so that it’s louder at those frequencies and therefore boomy.

Watch this video and see the graphs and explanation.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5itOydYkEw&t=588s

Budget Choice -Dayton sub 1000/1200

https://www.amazon.ca/Dayton-Audio-SUB-1200-12-Inch-Subwoofer/dp/B00669L3HS

I run Micca MS10 subs - about same as the Dayton’s - maybe Slightly Better Quality

Some Better Budget choices are Refurbished Infinity R10/R12, BIC F12, BIC PL-200

https://www.amazon.ca/BIC-America-F12-475-Watt-Subwoofer/dp/B0015A8Y5M

Klipsch sub I see mixed reviews - Decent But Lil Overpriced as you can’t get Better for same price or just a little more like the following

Better Choices a lil more $ - SVS, HSU, RSL

https://www.amazon.ca/SVS-PB-1000-Subwoofers-Black-Ash/dp/B00K88UMPW

nobody has explained their recommendations.

you don't get good volume on dialog because of crappy channel mixing from your TV.

that's not a dig on your specific TV... all TV's suck at this. in fact, most receivers suck at mixing down from 5.1/7.1 to stereo.

for any content generated in surround, something like 95% of the dialog volume is mixed to the center channel.

if you're listening on a pair of stereo speakers, you get to hear what the TV thinks is best, in terms of balancing the volumes between the channels.

folks here are recommending receivers that would give you 5.1 channel audio, and then also suggesting three speakers.

the three speakers are your Front L+R, and the all important center speaker.

receivers do a moderately good job of mixing all the surround channels to just the Front L+Rs, and if you have the center speaker, it will still get all of that delicious dialog.

your budget is a little tight, but doable.

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/yamrxv379bl/yamaha-rx-v379-5.1-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html $150

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009IUIV4A/ $60 for your front L+R pair

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HH2GINM/ $50 for your center channel

-

check out your sound settings for anything called "normalization" or "equalization".

this will cap the maximum volume difference between the audio channels. so in effect it will reduce the loud parts, and bring up the volume on the quiet parts. this may be sufficient for you to like what you hear, or be sufficient for you to just get some nicer speakers and be quite satisfied.

if the "equalization" setting fixes the quiet/loud problem, but you just want more oomph, i would recommend

eris 4.5's https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GP56OYA/ $180

or

fluance ai40's https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1/ $200

both are self-powered, and need nothing other than a cable to connect them to your Tv.

i have eris e3.5's and they are simply great.

i have fluance floor speakers, and they're also great, so i would expect good performance on the ai40's.

ai40's come with more features - a bluetooth input option, and a remote to control the volume, source.

Tube amps are great if...

a) You like the way they sound (I dont) and
b) You understand their limitations like power output

You can likely get away with 7 watts of pure tube power but I would definitely look for some efficient (90 db/watt at least) speakers. Im not sure what sound signature you prefer (ie; warm, accurate, forward, etc) but there are definitely good options for 500$ out there.

I would go with these

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RP-160M-Bookshelf-Speaker-Ebony/dp/B00RNZ6COS/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1493666588&sr=8-4&keywords=klipsch+reference+premiere

but I love Klipsch, and especially the new Reference premier line. I think they would pair really well with a tube amp. Plus, these should be plenty loud with such low wattage. There are many good options at that price though.

I do, I use my old AV receiver with passive speakers. You have options on that though.

• Passive speakers and a small AMP: micca MB42 for $59.95 and a small amp like this Lepai 2020 for $24.38.
  
• powered speakers that won't need an amp: edifiers for just over your budget at $109. There are a lot of options for powered speakers some with Bluetooth builtin, but the good ones of those start around $130.
  
  That eats up all your budget with speakers and amp. Checking Craigslist or Facebook marketplace you might find deals, particularly on a nicer stereo amp or AV receiver to use with some passive speakers. If you are interested in running Volumio on a Pi, that's going to add a bit more. For the pi you need, the Pi ~$35, DAC $20+, case $15, SD card $15+, and power supply $10. The pi is pretty nice with Volumio though, it has a good mobile webpage plus iOS and android apps for a few bucks. Volumio has plugins that allow for it to be an airplay receiver or to use Spotify.

• I'd go with either the receiver you said, or this one, which will do the same stuff and is on sale. Accesories4Less has a sketchy name but they're fantastic and I've bought a bunch of stuff there (including that receiver).
  
  
• Satellites are fine, those don't matter as much so the COVO's are good.
  
  
• I can't tell what subwoofer that is, I know this one is good, and so is the Dayton, which I actually have and like.
  
  
• The ELAC's are good, just be aware that they are pretty big (look at dimensions and figure out if they're ok for you).
  
  
• I would NOT recommend getting that center if you get the ELAC's, the ELAC's have 6.5" woofers and that center has 4" woofers. You want a center that matches the left and right, and that center is both smaller and won't match the sound signature of the left and rights.
  
  
• I'd get the Denon receiver and Dayton sub, then take the savings and put it towards a matching center (ELAC C6.2, $280).

For speakers, if space is an issue, you should get the Micca MB42X then, as they're much smaller than the JBL LSR305s. Or you could even just get the Micca MB42. I have the JBL LSR305s and a fairly small desk and they fit. I have a 23-inch monitor and one speaker on each side of the monitor. You may also want to get a DAC for your speakers, like the Schiit Modi 2 / (Amazon link) or a DAC/amp combo, like the Schiit Fulla / (Amazon link) or FiiO E10K (Amazon link) or AudioQuest - DragonFly (Amazon link).

For headphones/headsets, you have many choices. If you are a gamer, you should check out Sennheiser's gaming headsets. If you don't plan on gaming and just want to listen to music, check out the Sennheiser HD series. They can be found much cheaper on Amazon, eBay, or other various retailers. I personally have the Sennheiser PC363D headset for gaming and unfortunately paid about $240 for them, not even 6 months ago. Right after I bought them, the price on Amazon dropped dramatically, to around $130. I just checked on Amazon and now they're back up to around $219, but if you watch them, they will probably drop again like they did before. Or you can check on eBay. Sennheiser does have cheaper models though (all of these are around $150 or less) like the brand new Sennheiser GSP300 / (Amazon link), Sennheiser GSP350 / (Amazon link), or the Sennheiser GAME ONE / (Amazon link). I have tried a few different brands and Sennheiser is my favorite for performance. I also have the Sennheiser HD 598 SE / (Amazon link) for listening to music and the Sennheiser RS120 II wireless headphones (Sennheiser RS 120 (older model) (Amazon link)) for my TV and got them for my parents too. If you live in a place where you can't have your TV or music too loud, the wireless headphones are very helpful. Overall, I use the Sennheiser PC 363D headset the most and it sounds awesome. If you're a gamer, get a gaming headset, or if you just listen to music, the HD series are great too.

Save money, get better sub later.

This would be an excellent choice - RSL Speedwoofer

As would new (or used) subwoofer from REL, SVS, HSU, Rythmik, or Velodyne. Good bass is worth throwing good money at.

If you simply cannot wait, try to save up for a BIC F12 or PL200 (both slightly over $200)... probably the best, new, "budget" subs that can be recommended.

But try to save up for a better sub - those Kantos and your ears deserve better.

Under no circumstances go with Polk subwoofers.

Hey! Sorry for the long overdue reply - the intercontinental move had its expected obstacles and lots of work lol.

So I have had a chance to check out a few audio shops while being in Toronto. We are now pretty convinced to just buy new equipment. From our listening experience, and comfortable with the ~$1000 and under price range for speakers:

Focal Chorus 706 (http://kennedy-hifi.com/chorus-706/) sounded great compared to a Paradigm T-Monitor Mini: http://kennedy-hifi.com/monitor-mini/ but were very close surprisingly to the PSB Imagine-X B for about half the cost. We were also interested in the Yamaha AS301 Amp from the same store to power it (~$500 CAD).

Now from my research (without listening experience), I have been intrigued by the ELAC Debut B6 Series. Here's some reviews:

1. http://www.cnet.com/products/elac-debut-b6/2/
   
2. http://www.stereophile.com/content/elac-debut-b6-loudspeaker#sH8oc3iZ4yGKILMM.97
   
   It seems that these speakers, despite their cost, are sounding as good or better than very expensive systems (judging by the comments at Stereophile for instance and the reviews themselves). On the CNET review, the editor at the end suggests two low-cost amps to drive them: the Onkyo TX-8020 (https://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-TX8020-TX-8020-Stereo-Receiver/dp/B00EE18O7W), which is easily available on Amazon.ca and this U-turn Orbit turntable (http://www.cnet.com/news/u-turn-audio-slashes-the-cost-of-bona-fide-audiophile-turntables/).
   
   We were also thinking about getting the Sonos Play5 as an office speaker with portable potential and for possible add-ons in the future.
   
   I would greatly value your opinion. Thinking of just going with the Kennedy Hi-Fi options out of fear the ELAC is too much of an entry-level speaker that will be obvious in missing the depth and richness that we experienced from the Focal.

I was in a similar situation and ended up getting a pair of KEF Q150's with a Yamaha RX-V385 receiver. The Yamaha isn't on sale anymore but the KEF's are still at $398 from $650.

When I bargained with 2001 Audio Video, they offered me the KEF's for $350 (from the sale price of $398) and the Yamaha 385 for $280 (from the sale price of $299). And the KEF's come with a free pair of bluetooth headphones.

Visions will give you a good discount as well, but they'll try and push their house brand Soundstage first.

You'll get a better deal bargaining at one of those places versus buying from Amazon.

I just have the 2.0 setup right now but I'm happy with the KEF's and the receiver leaves lots of room to upgrade in the future.

And I got these wires to connect, and then these HDMI to connect the receiver with everything else

Good choice on the receiver. I'd really suggest staying away from vintage speakers that old. It's kind of like buying an old victorian house. Really cool until you find out all the money you have to dump into it. The only time I buy vintage speakers are when I find the dirt cheap AND they were high-end back in the day. Just my 2 cents but all of these are good bookshelf speaker options from $50-100 a pair (I personally like the Pioneer's best but they're all good budget speaker). You'll need speaker stands too ($40 plus) and might need to add a sub down the road if you want more bass ($100 plus).

Insignia NS-SP213 $50 pair
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/insignia-5-1-4-2-way-bookshelf-speakers-pair-black/8959098.p?id=1218957873370&skuId=8959098

JBL Loft 40 $65 pair
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DKPJSIM/

Polk T15 $65 pair
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002RJLHB8/
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/polk-audio-5-1-4-bookshelf-speakers-pair-black/8828012.p?id=1207956903491&skuId=8828012

Micca MB42X $89 pair
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E7H8GG2/

Pioneer SP-BS22-LR $91 pair
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008NCD2LG/
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/pioneer-4-bookshelf-speakers-pair-black/5086955.p?id=1218610014045&skuId=5086955

The other option is to bite the bullet again and get these tower speakers that are one of my personal favorites. It's less likely you'll need a sub and obviously won't have to by stands if you go this route.

Pioneer SP-FS52-LR Floor Speaker $182 pair
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008NCD2LG/
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/pioneer-5-1-4-floor-speaker-each-black/5086937.p?id=1218610014331&skuId=5086937

Have you ever heard a pair of Klipsch speakers? Reason I ask is that they can be fatiguingly bright, especially when not using any room correction that might tame them down a bit. I had a pair of unpowered R-14 that I only listened to for about 15 minutes before returning them to Amazon.

I would recommend considering something like the Micca RB42 which have been highly praised to the point of consistently selling out as soon as they come into stock. Review.

You should keep an eye on this auction for Jamo C103 which are originally $1600/pair and sound incredible down to 45hz. Review If these end up around your price range, try and snag them.

Third option: Jamo C93 on ebay. Same tweeter as above, smaller woofer, will still fill a family room. Review.

You might be wanting to stay away from a home theater receiver which I can understand for space, but going with powered speakers really does limit your options. I would entertain looking at a smaller amp like the AD18 that includes bluetooth connectivity and optical for your TV.

EDIT: Would actually recommend playing your music off your TV => optical instead of bluetooth. Spotify connect/airplay is great and then other people can change the song using the TV remote.

I like tube stuff - I would get something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Stereo-Hybrid-Tube-Amplifier-Integrated/dp/B078J8KJD9/

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It uses a tube preamp section, with solid state output. You would run your computer to it via either USB or BT. Your record player would go to the RCA inputs on the back. You would need to get a record player that has "line level" RCA outputs. Those are common these days.

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Re: speakers, I have two sets of Klipsch speakers that I like. I would maybe suggest these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00LMF41IY/

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I would use the Best Buy gift cards to get RCA cables and speaker wire, maybe speaker stands. Or, some IEM's (earphones).

​

Hope this helps! It's just one person's idea - and best wishes for college!

If you want to integrate video sources, I would recommend getting a home theater receiver. It will work fine for stereo music and offers a ton of good features.

This is a good choice: https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrs730h/denon-avr-s730h-7.2-ch-x-75-watts-a/v-receiver-w/heos/1.html

Next you need some speakers, I’d get these Infinity R162, it’s a killer price on some great speakers. They will play loud and clear and work well for music and movies: https://www.harmanaudio.com/speakers/R162BK-Z.html

Lastly you need a sub, again Infinity has a great sale on this and i don’t think there’s anything better unless you spend quite a bit more for a RSL speedwoofer: https://www.infinityspeakers.com/reference-series-home/REFERENCE+SUB+R10.html

Speaker cables: Micca Pure Copper Speaker Wire with Gold Plated Banana Plugs, 14AWG, 6 Feet (2 Meter), Pair https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZZ5HCTM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_n60mDbHDDC5EV

Speaker stands: Sanus BF24B 24 Inch Speaker Stands (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006JQ5N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_M60mDb568ER14

Subwoofer cable: Mediabridge ULTRA Series Subwoofer Cable (15 Feet) - Dual Shielded with Gold Plated RCA to RCA Connectors - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003FVYXY0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_a70mDbDG54CND

Here are my two cents. Similar to option 3, I'd get a decent receiver with a phono stage and a decent pair of speakers.

Onkyo TX-8220 - CDN$ 279.99

This amp should sound pretty darn good and it has optical inputs for when you'd like to connect a TV, an output for a sub-woofer, and a phono stage for your turntable. It costs less than the A-9010 and allows you to get better speakers, which is where you find the most improvement per dollar spent.

For speakers those the Fluance Signature Series are well regarded and should sound great.

Fluance Signature Series - CDN$ 265.99

These Klipsch speakers are also a good choice. They're more sensitive so should play louder. They are definitely on the brighter side and some don't prefer their sound signature. I have a pair and I do enjoy them.

Klipsch R-15M Bookshelf Speaker - CDN$ 248.00

This puts you a tad over your CDN$ 500 budget, but I think you'd be happy with these.

I'm not sure if $100 is a hard cap, but you might consider the SMSL Q5 Pro if you can stretch it to $139 and are looking to buy something new rather than going with a used product. It has an optical connection, a remote, and should definitely be able to power those Daytons. It doesn't have a ton of inputs and you'd have to wire the sub in line from the speaker outs, but it checks all of your stated boxes. If you're looking for a full-blown AVR with multiple inputs and a sub pre-out, the Onkyo TX-8020 is a great bet for $149. All that said, used is definitely your best option if you're really trying to keep this below $100.

For an accurate recommendation, it would be useful to know what you want to use them for. They seem to be a mix between a PA speaker and a Hi-Fi speaker.

For an amp, depending on the use, you can have pretty much anything. You could probably get away with this although for these I would reccomend something more powerful like this. Please note that I live in the UK not USA so my reccomendations come from this useful guide in r/zeos.

Generally you will want to make the most out of your speakers so a PA amplifier would be the way to go. Connecting this is easy. very easy. On the back of your speaker, there is two different ways to get signal to it. The first jack (the larger one at the top) is a quarter inch jack. This is the better option although it is only usually featured on PA amp's and it is generally more expensive. Here is one of them cables; you will need two if you want both speakers. The other option is just general speaker wire. This is an example. Of cores it's not the best, you really should look for a higher gauge although it will work.

I'm less familiar with this area but I believe either of these would suit your needs:

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-dta-120bt2-class-d-mini-amplifier-60-wpc-with-bluetooth--300-3803?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pla&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvJaXrZ3J4wIVj4vICh19MA91EAQYASABEgLD4fD_BwE

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https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-dta-21bt2-100w-21-class-d-bluetooth-amplifier-with-sub-frequency-adjustment--300-3831?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pla&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvJaXrZ3J4wIVj4vICh19MA91EAQYBCABEgLCQvD_BwE

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I also found a comparison video on reddit for these two:

https://www.reddit.com/r/BudgetAudiophile/comments/9ba6x8/dayton_audio_amplifier_shootout_dta21bt_vs/

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Also, I didn't realize you were playing audio from your computer. You'll need something like this to run from the line out of your laptop to the Lepai or Dayton (or edifier):

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-3-5mm-2-Male-Adapter-Cable/dp/B01D5H8JW0/ref=asc_df_B01D5H8KO2/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167146065113&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4591896362316768558&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011555&hvtargid=pla-303037967706&th=1

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Unless you have some digital output from your computer that the Edifier accepts, a USB audio interface is preferred for connecting a computer to external speakers. This is mainly because the onboard DAC of a computer (or television) is (usually) not high quality. You will have this issue with the Edifier as well. I wouldn't worry too much about this at this point.

​

If you were to stick with the Lepai, you'd just plug your headphones directly into the computer aux port and not use the lepai at all (as it does not have an aux port).

​

Pros compared to Edifier: >$100 cheaper, better sound (probably debatable, I've not heard the edifiers), passive speakers can be used with an AV receiver if you decide to upgrade in the future to an AV receiver for surround sound

​

Cons: No remote, extra interfaces required for different inputs

​

If you are wanting to input from a variety of sources (ie. TV and computer) you may be better off with the Edifier since you do not want to get an AV receive

How big is your room? What are you using this system for primarily - music, movies, video games? A mix? Are you looking for a 2.0 system (two front speakers only), a 2.1 (front speakers plus subwoofer), or something bigger (adding in another front channel speaker, subwoofer(s), etc.)? Are you located in the US or elsewhere? See below for some start-up recommendations, from a fellow newbie located in the US..

• You'll need a receiver for your speakers - here's a good, budget-friendly recommendation - Denon AVR-S530BT 5.2 - that gives you the option to grow if you want to add more speakers later on
  https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrs530bt/denon-avr-s530bt-5.2-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html?gclid=CjwKCAjw2dvWBRBvEiwADllhn8_oJ4E863EeDHkxQq-pwS5Arqe8KszbfNru2guYIJQfnCzLYYgqUBoCwCkQAvD_BwE
  
  
• You'll also need some speaker wire to connect your speakers to your receiver - this will work fine:
  https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-16-Gauge-Speaker-Wire-Feet/dp/B006LW0W5Y/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1524063706&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=speaker+wire&psc=1
  
  
• You'll probably need an HDMI cable to hook up your receiver to your TV. If you have one already, you'll be good to go. Otherwise, Amazon or any other electronic retailer will have one for you.
  
  
• If you want more bass, you'll need a subwoofer. Depending on your budget, a BIC Acoustech F12 ($212) or a PL-200i ($300) are often recommended around here. I picked up mine from Amazon.
  
• Also consider some speaker stands so that you can position your bookshelf speakers at the correct height/location depending on your desired listening location.
  
  That's really all you need to get started. There are tons of more recommendations/options out there - just throwing out what I recently learned when getting my set-up going. Good luck!

Nad D 3020v2 fits all criteria. Emotiva Ta- 100 is normal sized, but fits all other criteria. PS Audio Sprout would be a great option, but is a bit over budget.

You could also get a small dac/amp and add a small phono preamp like the schiit mani. You could stack the Schiit on something small like the micca origain.

Hope this helps.

This is extremely helpful. I think I'll pass on the Yamaha 5.1 entry set since I'd rather not replace everything. I'm leaning toward this 2.0 setup now (let me know your thoughts):

• Pioneer VSX-530 refurb
  
• BIC DV62 bookshelf speakers w/ mounts
  
  Next up do you think it would be better to add a sub or a center?
  
  I'm sure I can find a good tutorial for wiring speakers and setting up a receiver, but do you know of any off the top of your head?
  
  Right now I have HDMI for all of my gaming consoles (straight from console to TV). I guess I didn't realize that the receiver was going to be able to transfer video also. So that sounds like the solution... everything w/ HDMI plugged into the receiver and then 1 extra HDMI cable from receiver into the TV? Is that right?
  
  EDIT: Also, is there specific quality speaker wire that is needed? Just a quick Amazon search brought this up. Good enough? Any recommendations? Do I need banana connectors that I've heard some people talk about on here?

Well, honestly, pretty much any set of speakers you will get would be a significant upgrade over the JBL.

If I had $200 for just 2 speakers I would strongly consider the Fluance ai40 they are normally $199 but on sale for $169 now. They are powered and would not require a separate amplifier.

The Infinity Reference 162 refurbished for $165 are another good choice. These are not powered.

The very well reviewed Micca RB42 the the current darlings of the budget audiophile world, they are $150ish but are not in stock for another month. These are also not powered.

Do you need a whole system or just the turntable?

The best deals are used and/or vintage components from Craigslist or thrift stores. I’ve seen people post pretty decent systems they’ve found for less than $100 total. However, that takes some knowledge and patience and most folks that go this route are comfortable doing some DIY repair or refurbishing.

If I were starting from scratch, my bare minimum would be this:

U-Turn Orbit $180 https://uturnaudio.com/products/orbit-basic-turntable

Onkyo TX-8020 $160 https://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-TX-8020-channel-Stereo-Receiver/dp/B00EE18O7W

Elac Debut B5 $160 https://www.amazon.com/Debut-Bookshelf-Speakers-Andrew-Jones/dp/B014GSER6O

That’s $500 plus tax. You’ll need some speaker wire as well. What’s nice about the Onkyo, is you can connect other sources like your TV, Xbox and a Chromecast or AppleTV.

I bought the SMSL SA50 https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-50Wx2-TDA7492-Amplifier-Adapter/dp/B00F0H8TOC , the SMSL SA100 https://www.amazon.com/Amplifier-TPA3116D2-Channel-Adjustment-Amplifiers/dp/B07Q2XC7K3/ , and the FOSI T20 Bluetooth Tube https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q26T5N7 to try out with a pair of Sony Cores (crazy sale right now) and the Dayton MK442t.

This is totally subjective, but I felt like the FOSI was so much warmer and easier to control where I wanted the tone to be. Hands down sounded way better than the SMSL. I was really skeptical of the tube hybrid, but it sounds great. I'm curious if the AD18 would have similar tonal range to the SA100.

Well you've got a subwoofer, and an amplifier that isn't meant to work with a subwoofer, so that's the bulk of the problem.

The TV has a headphone and an optical out... the Headphone output you can use with a 3.5mm to stereo RCA cable, which is good... but The BasX S8 has line level in and out, but that's only going to work with one source, so no matter what there are going to be sacrifices made, here.

​

Here is my proposed method:

​

• This optical cable out from television ($9)
  
• To THIS DAC ($20)
  
• This Chromecast Audio ($35) (or you could use a bluetooth adapter to play your phone, with lower quality audio)
  
• Using THIS Cable plugged into Chromecast Audio and to DAC ($12)
  
• TWO Sets of THESE RCA Cables ($9 each), one from DAC to Subwoofer's LINE LEVEL IN, one from Subwoofers LINE LEVEL OUT, to Yamaha AMP input
  
  Total cost: $95
  
  But you'd need to run an aux cable/bluetooth/chromecast audio to have phone input on the yamaha anyway. Obviously if you have any of these cables you can save the money. RCA cables are pretty easy to find. So are optical cables.
  
  If music is more important to you than tv sound, you could run the optical cable to the chromecast and the 3.5mm rca to coaxial from the headphone output of your tv... your choice.
  
  ​
  
  The dac needs to exist because your amp lacks bass management and a subwoofer output.
  
  You will then use the subwoofer's crossovers to control the bass it receives and what it is sending out to the amplifier, and your Q100's will get the rest.
  
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Barring significant discounts, the following list tends to be the best bang-for-buck value subs, in order of increasing price:

$110 Dayton Audio SUB-1000

$140 Dayton Audio SUB-1200

$200 BIC F12. ^(Edit: not sure if designed by Dr. Hsu.)

$290 BIC PL-200 II (now $250). ^(Edit: Designed by Dr. Hsu.)

They are all great at their price points. But if you can swing the pricier BIC, you should be VERY happy.

Great suggestions here. I will add some of my naive thoughts. I think, in addition to getting inputs from folks here, you should try out the speakers you shortlist. For instance, I really enjoy the mids and highs of the KEFs while I find the Klipsch a bit too bright, but you may feel the opposite. That said, i think Fluance makes some really nice affordable speakers:

https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1

If you go down the passive route and looking to buy a budget amp, you can pick up the $500 Klipsch Powergate for $150:

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-PowerGate-Amplified-Wireless-Gateway/dp/B01N0A7PH5

It's a steal at that price. Take a look at the review here:

https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/review-and-measurements-of-klipsch-powergate-dac-amp.7376/

For passive speakers, maybe try to find a used pair of KEF Q100 on CL or the other suggestions already made here are equally good.

These $30 Dayton Audio speakers are good too:

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-b652-6-1-2-2-way-bookshelf-speaker-pair--300-652