"Integrated Amp" Do I dare go there??????


Hello Audiogoner's,
Without going into huge details I'll get right to the point!!!!, can a serious Stereophile, really survive on integrated amp alone?? after having separates for over 40 years, are there any really awesome integrated amps out there which could out perform my present system?. I am Running Krell, gear but I am getting that change gear itch! Bad Idea! can't be done?, let me know sugestions appreciated. ******Thank You Again.
aoltes
Everyone has a different opinion about Separates vs. Integrated Amplifiers. In my case, I went from separates to a single box solution because I wanted to simplify my system, reduce equipment costs (and cables) and had shelf space limitations. The final decision was not easy but I purchased the McIntosh MA6900 Integrated amplifier and the McIntosh MCD205 CD player for my Sonus Faber Grand Piano Domus speakers. The extra power plus the tube like quality of the MA6900 make these speakers really stand out. I was very surprised at how good my system sounds and so were my friends.

For my ProAc 2.5 speakers (2nd System), I purchased the Ayre AX-7e Integrated Amplifier and the Ayre CX-7e CD player. This system also sounds very good.

I suggest you listen to your speakers with several different combinations of separates and integrated amplifiers. This is the only way you can make a decision on the right combination of electronics for your needs. cheers...
gryphon diablo and youre done......you will be wondering whats the point of separates......;)
I tried the McIntosh MA-6900, nice quality with hefty heavy weight, nice meters. I was very excited about purchasing this amp for the sound. I tried it with my Klipsch Klipschorns, Klipsh RF-7, and B&W N800 speakers.
I was very disappointed. It takes away some details in favor of a more refind and smoother sound. I had to go back to my Rotel RB-1090. It wasn't something I expected at all! Since then I've read tons of some people saying the same on the internet audio forums. I guess live and learn but I thought I would gain more going with it.