@recklesskelly There are definitely options out there. Unison has a nice range of hybrid units at a decent price that sound really good. Now in my situation I also “need” 2 balanced inputs (I could get by with one using an external switch) so now my options are even smaller. In my case it was much easier integrating a separate pre.
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.
Showing 3 responses by som
@recklesskelly every single one of those hybrid units you’ve mentioned has a compromise in functionality (except maybe the McIntosh) compared to my Audio Research/Pass Labs combo. Whether it be limited balanced inputs, no balanced ht bypass , no way to integrate my xvr-1 crossover and subwoofers. In my situation my AR pre does exactly what I want |