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 mgrif104

In my view, an integrated amp need not be a compromise.  You can get very high performance if desired. T+A, CH Precision, Audionet, VAC, etc. all make exceptional integrated amps without significant compromise.  While it’s likely that their separates are even better, those will also likely be minor and the cost differential substantial.  Separates do offer some advantages - placement, inputs, variety, perhaps performance, they are not inherently superior. I’ve had both. To be fair, I wasn’t up in the stratosphere of separates, but my T+A integrated is worlds better than the Parasound separates I had. No comparison.  So, perspective is important here.

Some of us like gear. Some like changing out gear. Some seek the last iota of performance. Some need more flexibility of placement or want to blend typologies. All these users would likely favor separates. But, performance is there within the marketplace of integrated amps if you have the budget for it. And, for a budget of $10k, I would politely suggest that an integrated is likely to have better performance tthan comparably priced separates.

Lastly, I would note that i think it’s a good idea to keep digital circuits out of our preamp and/or amps. They’re noisy and my personal experience suggests that streaming clients and/or DACs built w/in most integrated amps are compromised relative to higher performing separates. So, I personally don’t think integrates that include the kitchen sink are necessarily ideal.  My experience only. YMMV.