car audio for start

could any1 suggest the optimal set of cd/mp3 player + sub + amp

i'd like to know what would be best performance for lowest price :)

thanx

For a head unit with good performance vs. price I like JVC (don't knock it untill you've tried it).  Something like the KD-AR300 has CD-R\CD-RW\MP-3 capabilities and can be had for $140-$150.  I have last years KD-SX990 which not only has the above mentioned compatabilities but also a 3.5mm stereo input (attach an mp3 player or portable minidisc player this way) plus a few other goodies and I only paid like $185 for it.

As far a subs go you have to decide how many you want and just how much you are willing to spend.  Remember you get what you pay for, 1 good 12" will outpump 2 cheap 10"s.  I don't know how many people here have used Coustic products before but I have had a lot of good experience with them.  They have the same parent company as MTX so you know there is quality there.  Their upper line of subs have molded carbon fiber cones (really cool looking) and handle 400 watts RMS.  I would dare to say they can keep up with MTX 8000 series and they are cheaper.

Amps are a very open subject.  Just remember to get an amp that has the same RMS power as your sub can handle and stick to a major brand (MTX, Rockford, Pioneer, Kicker, Kenwood, Clarion, ect.).  Again check out Coustic stuff.  Their monoblocks are great, and their 2 channels are nothing to laugh at (think almost MTX or Rockford power but cheaper).

Also, if your going to get a prefab box, don't get a ported or bandpass box (thuse should be custom built for the specific sub).  Make sure if you buy a prefab sealed box that it has the right volume and actually is air tight.  You can hve great equipment but in a wrong size, poorly constructed box everything goes to hell.

thats my2 cents