2. amps-preamps
  3. 1051671300

Upgrade Path - Integrated or Power Amp????

I have a dilemma I have been struggling with for a while. Hope to get some clues here - any suggestions welcome and thank you for sharing your know-how.

I have had a home theatre system for some time, which I also use for 2 channel music, altho I don't like it's performance. Main complaints are:

- when music gets complicated, it sounds confused, as if everything is collapsed in, cannot identify each instrument clearly as being distinct
- does not place instruments very well
- narrow sonic image

I've saved up some money and want to get a 2 channel audio system. This needs to mesh with my HT system i.e. same speakers, due to lack of space. I am not one for upgrades every year or two, want to build a system I will keep for years to come.

My problem is I am not an audiophile, I just like music and willing to pay for it, and I don't understand where the problem lies.

Which part of the AV receiver is causing the problems? Pre part? Power part? Both?

I only want to buy one component (budget around $5k) - do I get a power amp and connect to AV receiver, or do I get an integrated?

My system:

Marantz 9200 av receiver
JMLab Mini Utopia fronts
NHTs center sub
Mirage backs
Musical Fidelity A3 CD
715018
715018 OP
3 posts
 
Thank you for all your help guys. Looks like this problem is not unique to me!

Decided to borrow a pre-amp from friend to test out, see how much of an improvement that brings. If it gives me what I want then may go pre-pow combo and buy the pre first.

Lkdog - re budget, I guess I don't need to spend it all and in fact would be a bonus not to. You are right re diminishing returns. I'm not ruling out cheaper products but I just don't want to get into a regular upgrade every few years etc cos that would cost even more. Hopefully I will get something I am satisfied with and that will be my "audiophile" life over.
lkdog
417 posts
 
715018-
This is an incredibly interesting and strange hobby.
I guess each person needs to make a decison about what level of craziness they are happy with. I am very happy right now and really could only see a source upgrade at sometime in the future.
I think for me the key has been gradually getting components that are at a similar level of quality (entry level audiophile). It seems like if you get speakers that are much better than the rest of the system, then you will not know or hear their true potential and be left wondering. If you get a great pre/power setup or a great integrated, but you have average speakers...well you get the idea.
You have nice components. For two channel my guess is an upgrade in pre or power or both will make a big difference and get your system matched better across the board. It took me awhile to be convinced, but receivers generally are not designed for two channel listening.
Have fun!
715018 OP
3 posts
 
Lkdog - you are absolutely right re product upgrade and imbalances in quality. I fully expected it when i bought my Mini Utopias (they don't sound as amazing as they did in the shop by a long way). hopefully i will realise some of that quality when i get the integrated or pre/pow!
lkdog
417 posts
 
71508 -

I actually think that you will not recognize the JM Labs after you upgrade the preamp/power.
My speakers and overall sound went from very good, to great with the change.
Have fun!
More to discover