I used to have a mid-70's AIWA system that my father gave me, I'm not to sure of the specs, but it was some of the cleanest sound I had ever heard. Not to mention that it would rattle the windows in the house at just under half-volume.
My current system isn't bad, the main unit is a Pioneer RX-570, 400watts RMS total. I think it was made in the early 90s. My cd player is a real jewel, though, it's a 1985 Signature 2000 that originally retailed for about $700. The real sad part is that I bought all this at goodwill for less than $40.

 

Why is that the sad part?

One man's junk, another man's treasure, and for $40.00

What's that now days? 3 CDs and a cheap pair of headphones.

 

Try www.avsforum.com for all stuff tv
Try www.head-fi.org for some neat stereo stuff

Being as i work on scaffolding, i invested in a high-end portable system;
Apple 3g Ipod
Ray Samuels SR-71 portable headphone amplifier
Sensaphonics 2-xs In ear monitors (custom molded)
Including accessories almost two grand out-of-pocket, but compares favorably with home stereo systems costing 3-4 times as much. Needless to say, I really enjoy my work-day.

 

No, I think maybe 2 used CDs and a very cheap pair of headphones.

-1bigsteve (o:

 

My turntable is an old Dual 1257 and it has been so long since I have had it working I am not even sure how to replace the cartridge. I have slept way to many times since then. I remember good cartridges being over $100 bucks back then.