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 overthemoon

There's always a compromise and I currently use an amplifier and a source that includes preamp, streamer/dac and phono stage (Moon 390).  There are several manufacturers with similar products (Moon 390 with 330 is about $11k)

Keeping the amplification in a separate case from the the other electronics provides flexibility in upgrading.