Is $3000-$5000 realistic for high end audio?
$3000-$5000 is an “entry level” high end system. I would start with something like a Cambridge audio D/A converter for $400. If you want vinyl, the less expensive Music Hall turntables are quite nice. I would recommend buying the equipment guides/recommended components issues of Stereophile, The Absolute Sound and The Sensible Sound. I haven’t read them in a while, but they used to have listings of what they thought were some of the best systems in each price range. If you are not worried about warranty coverage on some items, Audigon.com is a great place to find used gear and also demo gear that it still under warranty. I spent a bit more than your budget when I upgraded a couple of years back, but I bought used gear and saved a lot. I have a Sony SACD player, the Cambridge D/A, a Music Hall “turn key” turntable setup with a little Antique Audio tube phono preamp, a Belles tube preamp, a Balanced Audio Technology solid state power and and a pair of Dali Helicon 400 speakers. I think I
