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 ml8764ag

ml8764ag's avatar
ml8764ag
481 posts
 

Absolutely love the idea of integrateds but even the more expensive ones seem to have been handily outperformed by even modest separates (in my system ). I wish it were not so. Some of the integrateds that people rave about are beyond my reach financially.

 

This is even before discussing the typical quality of their integrated phono amps…if they even have them.

The first BAT 300 (with 6922s) was the best I’ve ever heard.  If I’m not mistaken, it’s current equivalent is about 12k…you can buy some nice separates with that!

Bottom Line: I vote Separates!

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