first amp project

[stinkpot]

Hi all,

I apologize if this is a duplicate post - I've tried searching but some threads are so long . . .

I'm a student whose bank account has a nasty tendency to slip into the double digits. I'd like to work on building an amplifier to go between my DIY USB DAC and my Athena AS-F2 speakers. I've come across two names of two designs: the "JLH" and the "Krell-clone KSA-50."

Could anyone briefly recommend which of these projects would be more appropriate for me? Or suggest better ones? If I get to be picky, I'd love something with a nice soundstage. Also, rough estimations of project cost would be fantastic.

I have a basic knowledge of circuits and have graduated from remedial soldering school.

Thanks so much - this place looks to be a fantastic resource.
- ld