Have you been into a HiFi shop to test out a few items in the flesh?
That's the first thing you need to do now you've done the research; where you eventually buy from is up to you, but if you are interested in getting some good gear, try and get in store and talk it up; and set a budget (per component) so the HiFi guys know what to steer you towards - they will also have a comparable products in stock so you can test some items you may not have considered/heard of.
Take in a CD, favourite album, or hi quality dig files on a usb (not a frickin' iphone) of your fav tracks/something you are familiar with. Oh, and your headphones of course. If you're worried about getting fleeced, leave your credit card and cash at home, so you have time to collect your thoughts and make you decision.
If you're going to invest in speakers in a couple of months, you may consider getting an integrated amp that has:
- headphone jack
- a built in Phono pre-amp
Here's an example of a good entry level rig:
http://www.arcam.co.uk/products,FMJ,Integrated-Amplifiers,a38.htmCambridge Audio and NAD are good buys - again, the amount of bread you want to shell will inform your selection.
Headphone stages/pre's are great if you're listening to music from digital sources (eg laptop) and good with an integrated DAC - but a bit of overkill unless you have some serious audiophile convictions to fulfill (imo). Again, if you've got the bread, go bananas, but I'd get started with the phono/amp/speaker combo and then get the headphone pre as a nice to have down the track.
For speakers, essential you listen first, as per the above - again, depends on your budget - some recommended brands to start with are Monitor Audio, Paradgym.
As far as the turntable goes, compare with the Rega RP3. Again, if you can get in store, that's the best way to go about it.
I don't blast my speakers; if you have a good set-up you'll likely find you don't need to, as your listening experience will be richer and more balanced and not defiled by lousy gear.
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