• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

My simple stereo system. Updated 3/28/2020

Xvimm

Xvimm

Planeswalker
I am a thrift store and craigslist shopper so my system evolves slowly as I find better items in my budget. Currently my main stereo consists of the below.

Pioneer VSX-99 reciever
Pioneer SG-90 eq (don't use this often but it looks cool)
Pioneer DV-46AV cd / sacd / dvd-a
Teac W890R dual cassette
Denon DP-300F automatic turntable
Acoustic Research AR9 tower speakers (late 90's not the legendary Teledyne units)
Technics A51 tower speakers (don't listen to these that often as they do not hold a candle to the AR9s)

This current setup cost me $515, with the most expensive single item being the Denon turntable I purchased new for $240.

After playing around with speaker placement, the sound is pretty damn good to my ears. But I am always on the lookout for upgrades. Right now looking for a deal on pre amp & power amp to try out instead of the VSX-99. I could use a new stand as well, I like the height of this current one but it is not as sturdy as I would like. I may build myself a rack once I finish my current project out in the shop.

upload_2019-3-30_14-52-4.png

upload_2019-3-30_14-52-46.png
 
Last edited:
Register to hide this ad
I like the look of the rosewood side panels on this 99, the 130wpc in stereo is great and seems to have a good sound.
 
Those AR9's were a fantasy for me for quite some time. Used to look at them in the Crutchfield catalog every day. From what I know, they've stood the test of time and then some.

Cool system you've put together. I bet it sounds great. More proof that you can put a great 2 channel system together for very little money. At one point not all that long ago I had a whole setup that cost me less than $200 total. Even now, after upgrading everything, I'm still into it for probably less than $600. Does it have great resale value? probably not. Does it sound great? Yes it does.
 
Roboturner91 said:
Those AR9's were a fantasy for me for quite some time. Used to look at them in the Crutchfield catalog every day. From what I know, they've stood the test of time and then some.

Cool system you've put together. I bet it sounds great. More proof that you can put a great 2 channel system together for very little money. At one point not all that long ago I had a whole setup that cost me less than $200 total. Even now, after upgrading everything, I'm still into it for probably less than $600. Does it have great resale value? probably not. Does it sound great? Yes it does.
Click to expand...

I came across a test CD from my car audio days and put it on the AR9's, I was pleasantly surprised to discover they would play down to 32hz. I think they sound pretty damn good, although I have little to compare except my other speaker which are much lower end models. If you ever find yourself in NW Washington you are welcome to stop by for a listen!
 
Xvimm said:
Got it from Crutchfield on sale for $240 with shipping & tax, figured the extra $20 was worth it for Crutchfield customer service if I had any issues.
Click to expand...
I should have put a smile at the end of my comment as I was joking. If it were me, I would have done exactly the same thing. I'd rather pay extra $20 and get it from a reputable source, than someone selling it as new on ebay, for example.
Best
 
Sent back my fancy 12awg, braided, banana plug speaker wires today for a refund. The darn plugs did not have enough friction in the back of the receiver. As the picture shows I went back to regular monster xp wire I had laying around and seems to do just fine. Does not look as good laying across the floor though.
 
AR9's are very nice speaker. I used to have a pair of AR48B's back in the mid 80's. Wish I still had 'em.
 
One of my brothers had those same AR9's, and they sounded pretty darn good. He powered them with an old McIntosh MC2100. Have no idea why he eventually sold them. Then again, he goes through speakers like underwear. LOL
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom