How else can I decide how to spend some hard earned on some new stereo kit?

well since most of the technical conversations on here are way over my head, I guess some of you are deeply knowledgeable, and would love guide me on a shopping spree.

If a person was thinking of spending up to , say £500 (and preferably a good deal less) on something decent to listen to their favourite tunes on, what would you advise?

I would want CD player, ipod connectivity, tuner(including digital) some speakers, and a socket for the old turntable.
Or is there something else i need that I don't even know about?

any colour.
Style not important.
Nothing that will give money to alan sugar.


I know its not much money. (thank uni tuition fees for that).
But I feel sure there is help out there.

Thanks .

TS