What electronics would you suggest? Makes and models?
1. I just posted
my system to the Members System thread. It describes my 11-year journey. I started with a receiver and SL3s and slowly built up from there. For most audiophiles, this is how it's done. Very few people can spend $40,000 on an audio system in one day. But anyone can slowly build a great system over a decade.
2. If your budget is limited, buy used gear in good condition where possible. Amps and cables especially don't become outdated like players, processors, and subwoofers. Therefore, they retain more value over time. If you buy these items used, you can usually re-sell them for what you paid.
Get to know the high-end audiophiles in your area like you. When an audio-buddy wants to upgrade, you may have first chance at his old gear. You'll also hear other systems for comparisons.
3. I haven't shopped for mid-fi gear such as receivers in a long time, so I don't have much advice there. Denon and Marantz were my favorite mid-fi receiver brands back in the day, but things have changed a lot over the past 10 years. I've always hated Yamaha gear, which sounds harsh and sizzly to me. You need to audition the gear to suit your own tastes, but that's much of the fun!
Any receiver is a temporary amp for a high-end speaker like the Summit. I would get an inexpensive 200W (or higher) receiver as a temporary solution while you learn more about the high-end market and save money. Don't play too loud and your Summits will be fine. Loud comes with better gear.
4. My second choice high-end amps after Krell are
BAT (close second) and then
Bryston. MartinLogan ESL speakers need very powerful amps to play well.
5. Tube amps require a special type of person, which I am not. I don't want to adjust or replace tubes every few years. I looove the sound of the big BAT and Audio Reasearch tubes, but the price and hassles keep me away.