vair69robert-
Thank You for the kind remarks. There is a plethora of information in this thread that is built-by-design to help Thiel owners. Reading all of the various Audio forums on a regular basis, like I do, audiophiles are enjoying both integrated and separate pre/power amps in their respective systems.When I heard one of the first outboard DAC model(s), I remarked, why would anyone want this (circa 1990's)? Fast forward to 2018 and look at all of the DAC manufacturers. The same argument is made of the Integrated Amp from Anthem, Ayre, Bryston, Classe' Creek, Krell, Mark Levinson and Pass Labs, just to name a few. Technology has traveled a long way. Designers and engineers have advanced right along side the trends as well.
Happy Listening!