The “Best” Hi-Fi Systems of 2024 for £2,500 - Audio T Swindon Top Picks

/ Audio T Swindon/

In our previous blog, Modern Hi-Fi 101 - A beginners’ guide exploring the Basics of Hi-Fi Setups in 2024, we discussed some of the key concepts and considerations to be had when building a modern Hi-Fi system. Here, we are taking this further and giving you The Best Hi-Fi Systems of 2024…

…Okay ‘The Best’ will never truly be objectively correct, nevertheless we will be sharing a few of our favourite picks, giving examples of some worthy listening combinations of current equipment out there, all within the £2,500 budget.

Building a system usually utilises 3 main audio components, these are Source, Amplification and Speakers. To summarise the previous blog, a few key points are listed below with some of the considerations to be had when putting an audio system together.

  • The importance of matching the performance and quality of each component when working within a specific budget. Getting the most out of the overall system by lowering the standard of quality in one area to improve another and the idea of the system only being as good as your worst component.

  • Finding the appropriate equipment and reaching a sweet spot where the characteristics of individual components complement each other, working well for the listener and the room.

  • Evaluating the purpose of the system to help drive some of the decisions, particularly the type of source and the user interface, the type and size of speaker as well the amplifier class and power output to shape tonal qualities and enhance the enjoyment for the end user.

With this in mind, some of our experienced Audio T staff, have compiled a number of excellent and diverse Hi-Fi setups within the £2,500 budget to show some of the possibilities that are currently available, listing some of the positives and trade-offs.

Last but not least, let’s not forget the cables & interconnects. These normally contribute to around 10% of the system, so taking that away leaves around £2,250 for the remaining components of Source (or Sources), Amp and Speakers. Without further ado…

SETUP ONE

This setup has an incredible and powerful sound with a great soundstage. The Acoustic Energy AE309 have huge depth and punch for speakers at this price point. Despite the small size the Rega IO , (or the bigger brother Brio), holds its own even with these larger & more power hungry speakers.

A great quality Rega Planar 3 (No Cartridge) turntable as the main source with the addition of the Audio Technica AT-VM95SH cartridge is at the centre of the system. The spare cash to take it up to £2,500 was used on an upgraded cartridge, the WiiM Pro+ Music Streamer as well as higher quality Chord Sarsen cables.

This system will give great detail for vinyl listening sessions but also give you the flexibility to stream music and radio. The WiiM Home app is very easy to use, utilises many top streaming services to access playlists, or to explore new music. In addition, Tidal and Spotify connect features means you don’t need to use the WiiM Home at all and can play and find music directly through an interface that you may be already very familiar with!

Overall, this system would be great for someone with a large vinyl collection that appreciates a well balanced but engaging sound with the ability to stream. The speakers work well in both small and larger environments. Whilst this is a brilliant system as it is; it opens itself up as a excellent springboard for upgrade…

Possible Upgrades:

A Bluesound Node or Node X would improve the sound quality of streaming with an improved DAC. Performance of the speakers could be bettered with a more powerful amp such as a Rega Brio or a Elex MK4. Lastly you could add an advanced power supply to the turntable giving you greater control and accuracy of reading the groove.

SETUP TWO

This system has been curated to deliver a delicate and intricate sound, characterised by a very crisp high end and excellent overall tonality. The inclusion of the REL T5x subwoofer helps to achieve a closer-to-full-range experience, enriching the lower frequencies without overwhelming the detail and precision of the main speakers. The Sonus Faber Lumina I speakers, known for their luxurious build quality and refined sound, complement the setup perfectly, making it ideal for a home movie system that is also highly musical. 

The Rega Planar 1 (Carbon) in the Special Walnut Edition serves as a stylish and reliable turntable, providing a solid foundation for vinyl playback. The simple yet elegant design ensures easy setup and use, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned hi-fi aficionados. 

The Marantz Stereo 70s amplifier ties the system together with its versatile functionality and robust performance. Known for its wide array of streaming capabilities, the Stereo 70s offers: HEOS Built-In: which allows you to stream music from a variety of sources including Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music, and more. You can also enjoy multi-room audio by connecting other HEOS-enabled devices. AirPlay 2 to stream from Apple devices, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity, Internet Radio and High-Resolution Audio Support. In addition to its audio prowess, the Marantz Stereo 70s excels in video performance, making it an excellent choice for integrating into a home entertainment setup. It features: HDMI Inputs and Outputs, allowing you to connect various video sources such as a Blu-ray player, game console, or streaming device. It also includes an HDMI output with ARC (Audio Return Channel) support, enabling seamless connection to your TV and simplifying the overall setup. Lastly it also offers 4K Ultra HD Compatibility, HDR (High Dynamic Range) Support and CEC (Consumer Electronics Control).

Possible Upgrades: 

Upgrading to the Lumina II would provide a richer and more expansive soundstage, with enhanced midrange clarity and deeper bass response, further refining the overall audio experience. Moving up to the Rega Planar 2 would offer improved sonic qualities with a better tonearm and platter, resulting in greater detail retrieval, smoother playback and much more scope to upgrade the deck further down the line. Marantz Cinema 60 opens the doors for Dolby Atmos and surround sound, for a true home theatre experience (additional speakers are needed).

Overall, this setup is perfect for someone who values a finely detailed and articulate sound signature, with the added benefit of versatile streaming options and a solid foundation for both music and home entertainment audio system. The system works beautifully in small to medium-sized rooms, providing a rich and immersive listening experience.

SETUP THREE

If you’re looking for a system that offers a neutral and balanced sound signature with a slight warmth, delivering clear and detailed highs, smooth mids, and a tight low-end, then this could be the setup for you. Versatile across most, if not all, music genres, it provides a well-defined soundstage. 

The Arcam Radia CD5 ensures high-fidelity playback of your CD collection, while the Arcam Radia A5 amplifier, with its multiple analog and digital inputs, drives the system effortlessly. The amplifier’s easy-to-use interface makes it simple to manage your audio sources. 

The Monitor Audio Bronze 200 speakers, available in three stylish finishes (white, black and walnut) complete the setup with their elegant design and superb sound quality. Known for their clarity and precision, these floor-standing speakers fit seamlessly into any modern living space. 

Possible Upgrades:

Overall, this system is ideal for those seeking a neutral, balanced sound with a touch of warmth, coupled with elegant, modern design.

SETUP 4

Last but not least, we’re departing from the traditional hi-fi separates and focusing more on a stylised musical experience and showcasing Ruark's excellence in delivering high-resolution audio in an all-in-one package. The Ruark R410 Music System offers stunning clarity and an impressively open sound. Its Stereo+ setting enhances spatialisation, making the audio feel more immersive and giving each instrument room to breathe. This is a remarkable achievement for a single-cabinet system, with the R410 speaker configuration providing incredible imaging that rivals traditional stereo pairs. Its beautiful design and finish make it perfect for bedrooms, living room sideboards, kitchens, hallways and pretty much anywhere you want to. 

The Ruark RS1 Subwoofer improves performance in the low frequencies, completing the sound profile with a rich bass presence. The Rega Planar 2 turntable in Gloss White adds a touch of elegance and provides high-quality vinyl playback. Known for its detailed sound and smooth performance. The extensive connectivity of the R410 adds to its versatility, including options such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi streaming through Tidal & Spotify connect amongst others, USB playback, and multiple analogue and digital inputs for connecting external sources. This makes it easy to use without having to worry about connections and cables, it is very much a plug & play system.

Possible Upgrades: 

  • Rega Exact Cartridge - Enhances sound quality with greater detail and precision.

  • IsoAcoustics zaZen - Isolation Platform for the turntable, improving playback quality and preventing interference from the speaker and subwoofer.

Overall, this setup is perfect for those who want a high-quality system with minimal components and cables, whilst retaining the flexibility to connect various sources. Its elegant design and ease of use make it a stylish and practical addition to any home.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it! Hopefully the above suggestions have given a glimpse into the possibilities of what’s available out there in the region of £2,500.

As with any system or setup, don’t take ours (or anyone else’s) word that something sounds good. Give a call to your local Audio T and arrange a demonstration so you can hear the systems with your own ears.

Thanks for reading

Dan & Andy - Audio T Swindon

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