Merlion Audio

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Stereo Preamplifier

What percentage of your budget should you invest in each audio component?

I am thinking of spending around $2 - 3k for a stereo audio setup. from what i understand the best components for this would be 1) turntable (im definitely going vinyl) 2) integrated amplifier 3)speakers.
Personally i was thinking 500 on turntable 500 on amp and 1k on speakers. Is this a good proportion? I have seen some people have 5k in amplifiers and preamplifiers and only have $800 dollar speakers. Where should i attribute my funds?

The most important spend that deserves the most resources would be the receiver. Get a killer receiver and everything else will be killer. The reason the receiver is so important is because it is the power source for everything else to run. It has to have good clean power everything else falls into place. Be sure the receiver can drive your speakers by at least 85%. For instance if your speakers can handle a maximum of 100 watts, make sure that your receiver can drive enough power for the speakers to work at 85% of their capacity. This doesn't mean volume, this is pure power pushed through the speakers. If the speakers are working at or near their peak regardless of volume, the sound will be rich and clear. I can't imagine this being a problem, but make sure you understand the baseline frequency response, harmonic distortion levels and speaker efficiency. Look into getting high end refurbished equipment, this will give you more bang for the buck.

Best.

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