2. amps-preamps
  3. 1197941232

Preamp/amp far superior to just int. amp.?

I am curious if there is that much of a jump up in sound quality if a person goes from an integrated amplifier setup to a preamp/amp setup within the same manufacturer? I realize this is a loaded question, and it is somewhat rhetorical, but I just wanted some feedback if I threw it out there.

The reason I am asking is because I am wondering what my next upgrade will be in the future (not near future), because I have an excellent budget amp (Rega Brio 3), but there will come a time when I go to a better integrated amp., or spend the same amount that I would spend on that int. amp. and perhaps buy a not as good brand's preamp/amp. What would give more bang for the buck for say, $2000? I guess that is my true question.
regafan_1972
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,811 posts
 
A different perspective ...

At some point, a logical progression is experiencing the sound that is possible with a tube set-up. I have two such systems:

1. One system based around a Prima Luna Prologue Two integrated.
2. One hybrid system based around a Prima Luna Prolouge Five power amp and a solid state Musical Fidelity CD PRE 24 preamp/CD player.

I find tube sound in the $1000 - $1500 range (new) to be more 3D like than what is achievable with solid state amps.

Regards, Rich
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,623 posts
 
Within a single manufacturers' line, spending more money will often get you better sound but not always. Also, you may have to pay a lot more money to get a small improvement in sound.

Manufacturers try to avoid giving better sound for less $ in their lines for obvious reasons.
schipo
1,268 posts
 
In the real world the integrated amp should work much better by subtracting the middle man, the interconnect cable between amp&pre.I would think a well built and executed integrated amp should sound better and be much easier to intergrate into our living arrangements.
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,377 posts
 
At the 2000 mark I would go for the best used integrated that money can buy. If you have more to spend, then in my experience, nothing is better than what a world class preamp can bring to your system.
More to discover