This website uses cookies

Read our Privacy policy and Terms of use for more information.

~/the-ditty/gear ▍

Two real setups, the cheapest way in, and where we'd spend next.

// heads up Some links here are affiliate links. Buy through one and The Ditty earns a few pennies, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
01

Ian's rig

7 pieces
The main system, years in the making.
AmplifierMarantz PM6007One of the best budget amps going, punches well above its price.
Check it out →
StreamerWiiM Pro PlusStreams anything over WiFi. No Bluetooth drop-outs.
Check it out →
Speakers · nowDali Kupid / black ashSmall boxes, enormous sound. Replaced the Elacs and it wasn't close.
Check it out →
Speakers · beforeElac Debut B5.2A superb all-rounder. Still an easy shout.
Check it out →
SubwooferWharfedale SW150Body and fullness the bookshelves can't reach.
Check it out →
CD playerCambridge Audio CD4Does the job on the odd occasion a disc goes on.
Check it out →
TurntableSystemdek IIX / vintageFully manual, a bit of a chore, worth it. Long discontinued, so eBay.
Check it out →
02

Zara's rig

7 pieces
Upgraded a piece at a time.
Streaming ampWiiM AmpAmp and streamer in one box. The jump that made it click.
Check it out →
SpeakersDali Kupid / caramel whiteThe same giant-killers Ian raves about.
Check it out →
TurntablePro-Ject E1The honest way into vinyl.
Check it out →
Cans · deskBeyerdynamic DT 770 MClosed-back, serious isolation.
Check it out →
Cans · wirelessSony WH-1000XM4The do-everything pair away from the speakers.
Check it out →
Cans · everydayRode gaming headsetThe comfy desk default.
Check it out →
In-earsAirPods ProOut and about, doing the dishes.
Check it out →
03

Starter kit

on a budget
The cheapest way into proper sound: a streamer into active speakers, then add a deck. Where a lot of us began.
StreamerWiiM MiniTiny box that turns any speakers into a streaming system.
Check it out →
SpeakersEdifier R1280DBPowered, so no separate amp needed. Plug the streamer straight in.
Check it out →
TurntablePro-Ject E1Add this when you're ready for vinyl.
Check it out →
04

Ready to step up

our picks
Where we'd put the money next.
AmplifierMarantz PM6007It'll outlast three rounds of speakers.
Check it out →
All-in-oneWiiM AmpAmp and streamer, no rack of separates.
Check it out →
SpeakersElac Debut B5.2The safe, brilliant step up. Room to grow into.
Check it out →
HeadphonesSony WH-1000XM4For everywhere the speakers aren't.
Check it out →
// until next time — The Ditty
© 2026 The Ditty.
beehiivPowered by beehiiv