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After years of separates, I'm going integrated. Anyone else do the same?

I'm rethinking my listening room. I want my audio rack to be more minimalist vs lots of boxes, wires, and clutter. I know separates, in general, will sound better. However, at the level of my system, I'm not certain the difference would be as apparent. In the grand scheme of things of Audiophilia, my level of components are mid-fi at best (BHK Pre, First Watt J2, Elac PPA-2 phono, Pro-ject s2 Dac, ZU Omen Defs)

I'm favoring one of the Luxman Class A's (I know Luxman is getting out of the Class A business. The only way I would favor a built-in Dac is if it were upgradable like McIntosh or Accuphase. I'm guessing a Luxman or Mac built-in phono would sound just as good as to what I have now (Elac PPA-2).

So the question is, who else has gone to integrated? Do you regret the move or are you glad you did?

 

aberyclark
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jmeyers's avatar
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jmeyers
120 posts
 

I listened to the Krell 300i integrated amplifier at AXPONA this weekend. At $9500 (including the optional DAC module).  It is truly an outstanding product and a real value fo a high end component. 

ihcho's avatar
ihcho
609 posts
 

I am sure that I'll be going for integrated in about 10 years when I think I would lose much of my hearing capability. Also, for convenience and space. No vinyls, no CDs, strictly digital streaming. I don't think I can handle adjusting VTF, ... on my turntables any more by then. I might go for all in one system (except for speakers). 

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 

I’m now thinking of ordering or waiting on the new McIntosh 8950. The mark up on Accuphase is thru the roof. Luxman is right behind. At least with the McIntosh, I’m in the same country dealer mark ups are all similar), resale is decent AND I can purchase within driving distance. 

joey54
431 posts
 

One other integrated to consider is the Aesthetix Mimas integrated. You can add a phono card and a DAC card but they are both optional. When I bought mine I compared, in my system, Hegel 360, Luxman 590, Ayre AX-5/20, Ayre EX-8. I almost bought the EX-8 as I liked that one the best until I heard the Mimas. It’s extremely musical with great dynamics and a very detailed midrange. I have the DAC  card in mine and will be adding the phono card next. Overall  the best integrated I’ve heard. I had Aesthetix separates for many years as well as a balanced pair of Quicksilver V4's with a Calypso preamp before going with an integrated amp. First the Ayre AX-7e and then the Mimas. All great sounding products but I find the Mimas a great fit in my current system. Also, unlike some the products suggested, Aesthetix gear is easily serviced in the US should any issues arise. I would not go back to separates for any reason now.

If you have a dealer who will let you try it in your system I would recommend it. Good Luck!

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