2. amps-preamps
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Why the facination with integrated amps?

I don’t get it. Is it the manufacturers spotting a trend with the tail wagging the dog or does a significant market segment truly prefer the idea of an integrated?
Pros;
Less space
One less set of IC’s
In theory-one less chassis/case to pay for
Shorter signal paths possible
Can combine transformer/cap function
Cons;
Power supply interference/spuriae
Reduced Flexibility-can’t switch amp or preamp as easily or go to monoblocs
Less resonance control
Long history of lesser performance per measurements and long-term subjective listening
Less resale value if it turns out to be a fad
Less liklihood of an extremely high performing active preamp

I freely admit I am a skeptic. The industry-like so many others-looks for new market niches to move product. 
FWIW, the only integrateds I myself would care to audition would be from Esoteric and Luxman who have a long history of designing no-compromise (low-compromise) high-end integrateds. 

fsonicsmith

Showing 1 response by chcumo63

chcumo63
21 posts
 
The easy answer is value.  I just went through a complete upgrade of my system and the need to combine surround processing for TV/Movies along with my desire to get great 2 channel performance led me to the integrated amp world.  I couldn't touch the performance I'm getting out of the McIntosh MA8900 integrated without spending probably two to three times as much on quality separates.  That and the fact that this unit integrates (no pun intended) nicely into the surround system made it an easy choice (see my comments under the thread "New McIntosh amp build quality" - have an issue that they are addressing).

Oh, then there's the W.A.F. which was a fairly important consideration.  The Mac doesn't eat tons of space or look like an industrial relic from the 1800's.  

To each their own, but I think in today's audio market, integrated amps have a lot to offer at every budget level.
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