hi-fi related questions

[nO}{8]

I want to get into hi-fi but it seems quite hard as i need a few basic questions answering:

If I want to use a turntable will I need a preamp as well as a stereo amp?

Do all hifi seperates have the same standard of cabling?

Why do some hifi components cost so much? - why cant someone reproduce the sound of expensive gear with a lower cost? (factory production techniques etc..)

Most of my music collection is on mp3, whats the best way to listen to this? Would I need a DAC of some sort or is that just for cd?

If I play vinyl, whats all the components I need? (eg amp, speakers and turntable etc...)

Thanks in advance for any help

 

[nO}{8]

thanks for the replys! lots to think about...

some more questions...

I want to start small and then add components when I have the money, ive been looking at a ARCAM A65 PLUS - DIVA INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER to start with, does it have a phono stage because the website dosent say?

Im thinking about buying speakers at a later date and using my Sure e3c earphones until then, I presume all integrated amps have a headphone out?

My music is on my Archos Av420, which has a phono output (with the docking station), would this be ok to input into the amp? It plays uncompressed WAV's as well as 320kps mp3's. I also have 1000+ 12" vinyls, can someone recommend me a turntable for £200 s/h?

Oh I forgot to say, my budget for the amp is £300 s/h.