Price/quality ratio on my first setup, what do you think?

audiopty · 2025-08-04T09:47:50+0100

Hi,

I am kind of newbie when it comes to audio equipment and therefore I want some opinions on my first build! The target was to buy used stuff with a (cheap?) budget. Mostly I will use the system to listen CDs and with TV, but later might add turntable and streaming device.

So what you think on my setup and do you think that price/quality is acceptable here?
Denon PMA600-ne - 285$
Usher s520 speakers - 170$
Kenwood DP860 CD-player - 50$

I hope that I posted this in the right place, cheers!

RoA · 2025-08-04T10:06:44+0100

Quality amplifier and speakers, no idea about the CD player. Also think about the cables you need and probably speaker stands too.

daytona600 · 2025-08-04T15:03:56+0100

Amp speakers look Good
good 2nd Dvd/Bluray player for TV . for CD /Streaming use as a transport & feed a Wiim

Jasonovich · 2025-08-04T16:04:45+0100

Not sure about the limit of your budget, here's my thoughts.

The Usher S520 got a lukewarm review from WHF dating back to 2008, when these were priced £330.
The Kenwood player seems like a bargain but it dates back to 1987, and reliability may be an issue.

I suggest stretching your budget to the following:

Fosi Audio P4 HiFi Preamplifier: 3 RCA Inputs, EQ/Bypass + Fosi Audio V3 Power amp (£160-£178)
WiiM Pro (or WiiM Ultra if you have the budget)
Speakers I would suggest Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 Bookshelf Speakers https://amzn.eu/d/ejedaQu
DVD/CD player OAKCASTLE DVD100 £29 on https://amzn.eu/d/7aSyVsU

AliExpress is great place to explore, if you're on a shoestring 🙂