Separates vs Integrated


Hi, my current set up consists of a Coda 07x Pre, Krell 300 XD Duo.  I almost exclusively stream with a Lumin U2 mini with S-Booster feeding a PS Audio Direct Stream MKii.  
 

I get drawn into thinking a really well done Integrated could be as good or better, something like the Hegel H600.  Logic being the synergy the Hegel should have outweighing the potential debatable benefits of separates.  Taking out of the equation my current set up has more flexibility, assuming I would likely keep the Lumin, crazy to think the integrated would match my current set up? 
 

 

mm1tt77

All kinds of I have, you should get this or that brand type added with we sell this type of bias crap heaped in. Useless information and or post. Try naming a company that makes both integrated and separates in the same value range that boast their integrates are better. No sharing parts is better period ! 

In my experience, separates will usually prevail b/c they're further up the food chain then most integrateds and are made from better parts and engineering.  Having said that, the latest few generations of dual mono integrates are getting really close.  The one box, fewer cables can be very appealing and deliver superior bang for the buck.

I own a Hegel H590 and did an inhouse side by side of the H600 vs my unit.  The H600 is just a bit better and might give your current rig a run for the money. 

If you could reach a little higher the Gryphon Diablo integrated that just came out is supposed to be on another level and would be worth a listen.  Good luck and cheers.

Coda CSiB is a really good integrated. I had the V1 version which is 150/300/600w per channel into 8/4/2. The CSiB drove my Wilson Sabrina no issues.

I am using Boulder 866 now. I would say both amps are excellent and it comes down to personal preference and what works best with your setup.
Coda is more forward but in a good way without being harsh, it has really nice crystal clear mids and sweet highs with fast bass. Boulder is slightly bigger and warmer sounding and sets everything a bit further back into the soundstage. 

i enjoy a nice 70s marantz receiver, i enjoy all kinds of separates as well. someimts i build a piece of gear. i can try different things. its a fun learning experience. 

If the Separates Amplification System already in use is not satisfying your needs in the way the end sound being produced is able to be enjoyed. Especially if there is  something that is detectable and noticeable for being missing. Which through previous mails comments made in this Thread, I suspect there is something not quite to your unique preference. It does seem the idea of making a change is going to come to the forefront.

If the Pre' and Power Amp's are to be let go, the realistic remuneration will be approx' $11K, if the Used Sale Items go through smoothly.

Where are the advantages to be found from using a particular design for an  Integrated Amp. Firstly the Amps Schematic and Topology 'can be' one that is produced to take full advantage of the merits associated with a substantially shortened Signal Path.

Taking the Cheap Chassis Mounted Umbilical Connectors away from the Signal Path, or even the taking out of the Signal Path, the much more expensive types of Chassis Mounted Umbilical Connectors, undoubtedly has benefits for the Signal when being transferred through the Audio System have Voltage Gain added.

What is lost by removing Chassis Mounted Connectors between Amps is basically choice.

By the removal of Chassis Mounted Connectors, the Individuals Option of being able to make changes to the interface the Signal Path is dependent on is removed. The exchanges of Wire Types / Cable Construction Methods, usually seen under discussion are no longer readily available, neither is the option to Spend Monies to whatever budget can be allocated to infill the Signal Path between the Pre > Power Amplifiers Chassis Mounted Connectors.

The user of the Integrated Amplifier, when placed into the segment of Amp Usage that is limited to being an enthusiast for replaying recorded music through the use of  Audio Equipment, results in Trust needing to be put in place for the Designers choice made for the interface between Pre > Power section within the Integrated Amp. 

The Link will introduce the Sales Spiel and offer a description of a Design Intent for an Integrated Amplifier that is professing to have the Shortest of Signal Path as the utmost importance for the design.  

This Amp is relatively new to the Market, and as used Integrated Amplifier Purchase is approx' $18K. The predecessor design can be found for approx' $8K.

It is worth a read to reinforce where the merits of selecting an Integrated Amplifier  can be found.

FWIW, my retirement Amplifier will no longer be Valve Amplification, the new Amp to be used, will be a SS Design, that is to be a Commission Built model of a commonly seen DIY Build Kit Amp. The likelihood will be a Pre Amp will be built into the same Chassis as the Power Amp.