I know this system isn't "perfect", but it lets me accomplish a few things.

1. Have a dedicated music listening system that my wife is "ok" with (financially and aesthetically)

2. Allows me to experience tunes from a tube amplifier and single-driver speaker.

3. Enjoyable at low-listening levels and near-field positioning. (Young kids at home)

With that said, it's taken me about 2 years to put this system together. Lots of experimenting with various low-powered integrated tube amplifiers (Norh, Decware, Sophia), various conventional and tube-output CD players, and several types of speakers (planar, 2-way, single-driver). Trying all sorts of combinations, the system I currently have is where I have settled.

First component I want to discuss is the speakers. Although these Fostex driven, single-driver Omega speakers have their weaknesses, it does give me a greater sense of "live" music. Particularly for simple jazzy vocal stuff like Diana Krall and Norah Jones. It doesn't do all that well with "complex" music like symphonies or choral music, and doesn't have the bass extension to get good "pop" out of rock, but it does do vocals and chamber music very well. Imaging is excellent.

The Usher branded Music-Hall CD-25 was an excellent find. After doing some minor modifications like upgraded op-amps, adding vampire connectors, silver chassis wiring, upgraded power cord, and chassis dampening, the sound really smoothed out. It compared favorably to my brother's tube-output Cary CD-1 CD player. Besides, the clean, brushed silver faceplate and blue HDCD light was an easy sell to my wife.

The Cayin TA-30 is simply the best tube integrated that I have seen and heard in the ~$500 price range. Great flexibility with tubes and good power at 30 watts... bonus is that it includes several inputs. The downside is the "champaign" colored faceplate... but it is a nice looking amp.

Anyway, I'm done for now... There are some tradeoffs here, but would love to hear your opinions.