integrateds in the modern age: consensus?


Hi everyone,

Integrated amps are pretty well established now as a viable component category. I don't think are many people left who scoff at the basic concept of an integrated.

Is there any sort of general consensus that has been reached on the issue of integrateds vs. separates at a given price point? As in, would a great $5000 integrated -generally- be considered equivalent in standing to a great $2500 preamp plus a great $2500 power amp? The answer's probably no, but I thought it would be interesting to see.
lousyreeds1

Showing 1 response by newbee

If I were into SS sound I would have an integrated amp provided it had high power and current delivery capacity so it could drive different speakers easily. That way I wouldn't have to buy a new unit if I changed speakers. But I'm not.....

I like tubes and I like the flexibility of being able to make tonal adjustments by just changing tubes to accomodate different placements, rooms, speakers or new source equipment. Having a pre-amp gives me one more location to make changes (although I rarely mess with the pre-amp). Tinkering can be fun on a rainy day! :-)