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 clearthinker

clearthinker's avatar
clearthinker
1,582 posts
 

Response 1.   Three boxes cost more to make than one.  At a total spend of $10k too much in hard dollars is being spent on boxes (and leads between them).  At a bigger total spend, boxes and leads are a smaller proportion of the whole.

 

Response 2.   Theoretically exactly the same amp(s) with the same power supply(ies) could be put in one box or in three.  The three box version would cost more.  But would it sound better?  The only difference would be the greater physical separation of the active circuitry and components.  How much sound quality can this add?

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