A few sentences of despair and (possible) begging for help

Mediocre to average will cost you $5k

One can easily get a really good small room setup for less than that. $1K for NHT C3 pair, Yamaha A-S301 for $350 - use computer as source (if needed get a used laptop for $200 or so). If desired a sub could be added later as well.

Done. Nowhere near $5K and has objectively good performance, and arguably better than quite a few more expensive rigs. Most people would have a very hard time faulting it. Arbitrary price for what's is audiophile and not isn't a good indicator. Someone that has a 20' x 30' x 11' room midfield vs. 10' x 15' x 9' and plans on listening in nearfield for example have entirely different needs and with it pricing.

/r/audiophile Thread Parent