A separate dac and preamp or a good dac with pream

I have no issue with an integrated (pre/power) for my main system, but personally I'd not get a DAC/pre combo. I'd prefer to keep the digital signal separate from the analog for minimal signal disruption. ALso, DAC technology seems to change rapidly and thus I'd like to keep the option of changing out the DAC part in the (near?) future.

I agree with Rockadanny's post above and also suggest you separate your pre-amplifier (or integrated amp) from your DAC for the best sound quality and flexibility. This means you can select the right unit for your application and upgrade, if needed, in the future. I do not like combining a DAC and preamp in one box.

Of course, I understand that having another piece of equipment on your shelf is a concern. Maybe a smaller size DAC's might solve the problem. I do feel that a separate DAC would improve the sound quality of your system. I suggest you borrow a DAC and give it a test.

Thanks Rockadanny and Hgeifman. The problem is I'm staying in a very remote area and there are no shops here. It's 175Km to the nearest hifi shop and also there is no such thing as "home audition". The people here does not understand it.
I bought all my gears "blind", basically all feedback from forums and web site reviews.
I am thinking of the Bel Canto 2.... or Teac UD503 as they are within my budget and also very highly regarded. Both also can serve as preamp. Looks like I've to get it blind again.
My current system is a30 from accuphase, with passive preamp. Source is sa8005 sacd (with lap top hot wired to sa8005 through musical fidelity vlink 192) and speakers are harbeth shl5+. The speaker was the reason for the start of my gear hunting again.

"I'd prefer to keep the digital signal separate from the analog for minimal signal disruption."

Uh?? Half of a DAC IS analogue... hence the name.

Separates vs integrated is a question of system sophistication and how well your speakers discern the difference in things like signal separation etc.. It's my opinion that you get a very good bang for the buck in moderate systems.

And the home audition thing sounds great on paper but not very practical for most. I would suggest taking your time and buying used at a good price. It's kind of a pain in the arse to resell but the best way to build a system of components that sound good in your home at about half the price of new.