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 joshfilm

joshfilm
70 posts
 
I think manufacturers have realized integrateds can be the “gateway drug” for getting consumers into their sound/brand as they move up tiers in the cost/quality chain (yeees, not indelibly linked), so they have made them better.
Especially higher end brands that suffer from chronic unattainability. Lower-model separates from such a brand also seem less sexy / attractive in terms of perceived-value than their highest-model integrated... (and this sometimes is true for real SQ because of the first reason above). 
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