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 willywonka

willywonka
189 posts
 

I've had both integrated and separate and both have their positives and negatives. Integrated amps can be very high quality and sound very good depending on what you get. Advantages are saving space and not having to buy an interconnect to connect the separates. If you normally upgrade your power cords, then you will also have that savings. Also integrated amps are built with synergy in mind so no worries about matching a preamp to an amplifier.

Separate amps and preamps have their own dedicated power supplies and chassis and have less likelihood of interfering with each other. Also, like others have said you have the added flexibility of only replacing one of them for an upgrade. Separates often sound better but this is highly depended on the comparison made and equipment. 

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