Audio Gear

[sureshot]

Seeing as how I will be gainfully employed again beginning next week after a 6 month "vacation", Ive been thinking about treating myself to some electronics gear. I guess I'll preface this by saying Im not sure what my budget is, mainly because the audio world is so daunting. Im willing to spend some dough within reason, but I dont need top of the line. I can say with certainty I dont give a shit about surround sound. The primary usage will be for music, mostly vinyl. But outside of that, Im unsure of where to turn. The main components I think I'll need are:

 

speakers

turntable

amp/preamp (or receiver?)

 

Im open to both new or used recommendations.

 

Finally, any recs on Chicago area retailers? I've heard these guys tossed around. Any firsthand experiences or preferences?

 

http://www.musicdirect.com/

http://www.saturdayaudio.com/

http://www.decibel.com/

[cryptique]

I'm just glad to see that the Saturday Audio Exchange is still around. I haven't lived in Chicago since '92, and back then I believe they were on Clark Street a little north of Diversey.

[LouieB]

I'm just glad to see that the Saturday Audio Exchange is still around. I haven't lived in Chicago since '92, and back then I believe they were on Clark Street a little north of Diversey.

SAE has moved around like crazy. They used to be in Evanston also. They did carry good stuff.

 

For used equipment check out the 20th Century Audio on Montrose. For lower budget components drive to Springfield and see the folks at Recycled Records. They have a large selection of second hand equipment.

 

Then again someone else may have other ideas. Considering you are newly employed I would be conservative at first. You can always upgrade later. If you are intrepid visit your local pawn shop or thrift store. If you have zero equipment try this....ask around to friends, friends parents, and coworkers. See if someone has older equipment they no longer use (particularly a turntable) and give them a few bucks and put your system together. Old equipment is often very good or can be fixed.

 

Then again if you got a really high paying job and can afford what they are selling at both decibel and other higher end outlets, hell go for it.

 

LouieB