What Hi/Fi System to buy? (compatible with PC)

[EvZ_2]

Hi all,

I'm a noob when it comes to audio - apologies. I'm building an x99 gaming PC this summer and I want a hi fi system to go along with it. So I need your advice on whether to buy a straight up Hi Fi system that can perform the requirements below or an Amp Set up.

Requirements:

- Under £400

- It has to be able to play music wirelessly (NFC/bluetooth)

- It has to be able to play music/audio from my PC to the HI Fi either via cables or wirelessly

- it has to be capable of playing music standalone (i.e. not connected to PC)

- Would like it to be "future proof" or be able to connect more speakers to it in the future if within budget

It's a lot to ask but I'm fed up of listening to shitty audio when not wearing headphones. If there is a system that can perform all of the above please advise,

From my novice knowledge - the Cambridge Adui Mini Xi looks like it might work ???? (but I'll have to buy speakers separately?)

Much appreciated,

EvZ

 

[matthewpiano]

If you don't need CD playback, the Marantz M-CR510 is pretty much impossible to beat at this budget. Add a pair of Q Acoustics 3020 or Dali Zensor 1 speakers on some solid stands and you'll have a great set-up.

If you do need CD playback, go for the M-CR610 or the Yamaha CRX-N560D. The Yamaha is marginally better sounding overall, but both are excellent, feature-packed units.

 

[tino]

You might be better off with an AV receiver / amplifier with Bluetooth, wireless networking, HDMI for your gaming PC, multiple speaker configurations, room correction etc. etc. There are some new but outgoing 2014 models e.g. Pioneer VSX924 that can be had at good prices.

 

[EvZ_2]

Just seen this deal - Cambridge Audio One - with speakers - £350 - seems like a good deal.

http://www.richersounds.com/package/system-savers/mini-hi-fi-system-deals/pah011944

Would this be able to hook up to the PC do you think?

 

[his dudeness]

it has a usb connection perfect for a pc,but i would really want to hear it first especially the speakers.

 

[steve_1979]

You mentioned that you may want to connect more speakers in the future which I assume is for surround sound gaming. Check out this Q Acoustics 1010i 5.1 system on Ebay. I used to own the same speakers (with a different Yamaha receiver) and they sound fantastic with games. I paid £600 when they were new so for £350 second hand it's a pretty good deal.

There are plenty of other similar bargains on eBay for under £400. IMO you'd be best off getting an AV receiver for around £100-150 and 5.1 speaker package for around £250-300.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Surround-Sound-System-Denon-AVR-1909-Amp-Q-Acoustics-1010i-5-1-Speakers-/261875942896?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item3cf905c5f0

EDIT - Here's a picture of my old gaming setup if you're interested.

 

[knaithrover]

If you don't need CD playback, the Marantz M-CR510 is pretty much impossible to beat at this budget. Add a pair of Q Acoustics 3020 or Dali Zensor 1 speakers on some solid stands and you'll have a great set-up.

If you do need CD playback, go for the M-CR610 or the Yamaha CRX-N560D. The Yamaha is marginally better sounding overall, but both are excellent, feature-packed units.

+1 for the Marantz M-CR510