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
lak's avatar
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lak
4,640 posts
 

I think a lot has to do with the type of preamp that the integrated unit is using.

ron325
58 posts
 

I agree with someone above who said you need to compare the amps within the same brand for this to make any sense. In my opinion, a $10k integrated amp would probably sound better than a $5k amp and $5k preamp, assuming they were all the same brand. The big caveat is if you play vinyl… the included phono stage on an integrated is likely not as good as one included in a preamp, although it’s possible, I suppose.

There are way too many variables if you compare across brands.

paul_lindemann's avatar
paul_lindemann
51 posts
 

I have owned many integrated amplifiers that were purported to be among the finest around.  Honestly, I was unimpressed.

The sound stage and imaging was very average at best, instrument timbre was just OK.  When I upgraded to separates, the ROI was well worth the spend.  Just one guys experience.

 

 

big_greg
6,632 posts
 

Right tool for the job.  If you have the space and perhaps are trying to connect a lot of components, separates may be the way to go.  If you're trying to wring that last 1 or 2 percent of sound quality out of your system, separates may be the way to go.

If space is limited, a well made integrated can work great and sound just as good, or so close that it wouldn't be noticeable, as separate components from the same brand.  You should also get more bang for your buck, since with an integrated you're only paying for the engineering and manufacturing of one enclosure. 

One of my friends has long used an integrated in his system, and it is by far one of the best sounding systems I've heard.  It's relatively modest, but what makes his system so good is his room and the care he has taken matching and setting up his components, not the amp/preamp.

I have 2 systems built around integrated amps and two built around separates.  I like them all.  The main system sounds best and it is build around separates, but again, that is more a result of maximizing my listening space and having good source components and speakers than whether my system is built around an integrated amp/preamp or an integrated. 

It all matters, but that choice should be made based more on space, budget, and aesthetics than sound quality in my opinion.

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