2. amps-preamps
  3. 184597-122012

user poll on seperates vs integrated

Hey guys, I wanted to try and crowd-source some (likely very opinionated, unscientific) knowledge.  I've read about the benefits of separates (have only ever used integrated myself), and I'm wondering how those benefits compare to the benefits of higher end parts/assembly, when controlled for cost.

 

To put it more plainly, would you likely get better overall results from a $5000 preamp and $5000 amp, or from a $10,000 integrated, given the likely quality/components used in equipment in those price ranges.

 

If you're experienced both separates, and integrated amps that cost the equivalent of those separate parts added together, can you speak to which you preferred?

 

Thanks for weighing in.

chrisryanhorner

Showing 1 response by boostedis

boostedis
92 posts
 

The answer is more simple than many are making it seem. Price is absolutely a great indicator of performance! Very few expensive products perform poorly, but that does not guarantee that a lower priced product won't perform equally as well. 

To directly answer the OP's question with an example:

  A $12K Gryphon Integrated will sound better and is better built than a $6K Parasound Amp and $6K Preamp!

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