Dear Mudlark; I sold stereo equipment at one time can suggest an orderly approach. Start with the speakers. You may have AR 2's of mid 1970's type. They are 4 ohm impedence and are just fine. I have a large main system, but the only backup is a pair of Dynaco A-25s, very similar in size and design to the AR-2s. A friend recomends the current Phillips DVD player for audio-only CD use. About $69.00 at discount stores. Between the disc unit and the speakers you need only a solid state integtrated amp. This systen is actually no challenge to put together.