2. amps-preamps
  3. 191506-142990

Separates vs Integrated

Hi, my current set up consists of a Coda 07x Pre, Krell 300 XD Duo.  I almost exclusively stream with a Lumin U2 mini with S-Booster feeding a PS Audio Direct Stream MKii.  
 

I get drawn into thinking a really well done Integrated could be as good or better, something like the Hegel H600.  Logic being the synergy the Hegel should have outweighing the potential debatable benefits of separates.  Taking out of the equation my current set up has more flexibility, assuming I would likely keep the Lumin, crazy to think the integrated would match my current set up? 
 

 

mm1tt77
zlone
657 posts
 

I know how it goes finding the right preamp, I have spent a couple years looking for the right fit for my system. I have Coda #8 and have tried Schiit, Ayre, Coda, Benchmark and now Pass. The Pass has been the best so far, by a good margin, the Benchmark was good too, but quite dry. The Coda 07x was not to my liking, same comment as @yyzsantabarbara , it is noisy, and artificially warm. Switching to an integrated will just give you a whole new set of problems, with less flexibility. Keep looking for the right preamp, you haven’t found it yet. 

tkrtrb125
289 posts
 

SPL https://pt.audio/2022/11/27/spl-elector-analog-preamplifier-review/

captaindidactic
79 posts
 

If money is no object, Separates rock. However, I used to run separates, one preamp and two amps, and found that all of the interconnects add up. I switched to a McIntosh MA 12000 and since I only needed one interconnect from my Lumin T2 streamer, I was able to go with AQ Dragons. 

My dealer wants me to go with the new HiFi Rose streamer and still to come out, power supply for it, But I am curious about the 432 Evo. 

1971gto455ho's avatar
1971gto455ho
482 posts
 

All kinds of I have, you should get this or that brand type added with we sell this type of bias crap heaped in. Useless information and or post. Try naming a company that makes both integrated and separates in the same value range that boast their integrates are better. No sharing parts is better period ! 

rick_n's avatar
rick_n
206 posts
 

In my experience, separates will usually prevail b/c they're further up the food chain then most integrateds and are made from better parts and engineering.  Having said that, the latest few generations of dual mono integrates are getting really close.  The one box, fewer cables can be very appealing and deliver superior bang for the buck.

I own a Hegel H590 and did an inhouse side by side of the H600 vs my unit.  The H600 is just a bit better and might give your current rig a run for the money. 

If you could reach a little higher the Gryphon Diablo integrated that just came out is supposed to be on another level and would be worth a listen.  Good luck and cheers.

More to discover