"Andy Hewitt" wrote in message
t...
Richard Blackwood wrote:

Hello group,

I have begun taking an interest in audio equipment after years of
pottering
along with my cheap 'n cheerful Aiwa hi-fi. I'm now looking to replace
but
am confused by so many choices/opinions/functions on audio equipment. I
have a few questions for the group if you dont mind, beginning with:

After browsing through Argos to get a feel for what's available, prices
etc.
I see that some systems appear to consist of seperate units. Are these
true
seperates in the sense that you could connect these to other audio
seperates
or add new equipment to these systems for future upgrades?

Examples of what I'm talking about are the Goodmans1980 &
TechnicsSCHD350
models.

If you want Hi-Fi, forget Goodmans, that's really low level budget
stuff.

Technics is good though, and is my favourite brand.

Forget Argos too, they sell mostly comercialised cheapy stuff. Try
looking at Richer Sounds first, they are great for beginners, and are
happy to advise you well (IME).

They do some good bargains too. I got a Yamaha 5x60w surround reciever a
couple of years ago at half price.

If you want some well made hi-fi for a good price, have a good look at
the Cambridge stuff, a nicer sounding amplifier you will not hear for
the money. For speakers, look for the JPW's, I have a pair of Sonatas,
and it'd take a lot more expense to get a better sound.

This is of course looking at the low end of hi-fi. If you stated your
budget levels it would help more.

Thanks Andy,

I am not quite sure what will be 'enough' for me. I think £150 as a start
point, which would get me the Goodmans for example - 130watts, MP3, 5
speakers, 5.1 dolby digital decoder....I had considered that this might be
alright but would consider up to £400 if pushed.

There is so much info to wade through before making a decision!