Alex wrote:
Hi all

For around 6 years now, I've been using an Aiwa Mini Hi-Fi system to
play my music on. However, although its been pretty good to me (I've
had no complaints up to now), I've been toying with the idea of
upgrading this with a 'separates system'. Now, I have to admit I'm a
bit of a 'newbie' when it comes to Hi-Fi equipment but hopefully after
your help and expertise I will be in a better position to make a final
decision.

snip

I was in EXACTLY the same position as you about 18 months ago and asked the
same question. One reply said to forget the magazines and listen to the
equipement. Thats exactly what I did and I got a great sounding system for
£650 at Richer Sounds.

I too had the idea of buying one of the systems out of what HiFI but my mind
was soon changed at a listening session. I hated the sound of the HiFi in
What HiFi! I ended up buying a Cambridge audio A500 amp and Cambridge Audio
D500SE CD Player. Much better to my ears than the tinny What HiFi
recomendation.

That system lasted me for a year until the bug to upgrade got me. I got all
Arcam gear and thought the sound was great - until a month later when I
realised I wasn't listening to as much stuff! I also thought I needed big
floorstanders as I liked bass - 3 pairs of What iFi awards floorstanders
later, I purchased some standmounters that sounded super in my small room.

I currently have the Roksan Mk 3 amp and CD player with Quad 11L speakers.
An awsome sounding trio that cost £1700 (more like £2500 after I went
through all the Arcam gear that I hate)

All of my current gear is well regarded in What HiFi BUT the best tip I can
give you is DO NOT BUY WITHOUT LISTENING!

MrBitsy.