Is system synergy worth having matched components?

If you ask a dealer, they will tell you it is very important to use the same brand pre and amplifier,as it is the easy way to go and they can increase the sales.

In fact, if you are a experience guy, you do not need follow that  way, you might choose your way, and better one

If  you are new, do the pair with same brand.

Most very good match is not going to public, it is in some one's room. Hifi is  a exploring  journey, and that is most  interesting things inside itself.

Synergy,yes! It is important.

Same brand, not really. The pair from same brand is the understanding of the designer. The pair could be good one, but not great one. You might found the great match on the market with different brand.

Just like me,

I found Rega cursa 3 + audio research vt100 iii is such a great match.

I also found Ayre kx-5 + audio research ref 75 se is very good.

It is the journey, believe me. Everyone explore the hifi world, including the designer.

No one can set the superior standard, as there are more great match who they do not know even they design.