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Separates or Integrated? What makes more sense?

If you had $10,000 to spend on amplification, would you put all that money and get a really great and pricey integrated amp like a Pass or Luxman. Or, would you use that 10k to buy a really great preamp and amp combo. Apart from the convenience and space consideration, hypothetically how would you choose to spend that 10k if sound was your main criterion.

J
tyan42
rpeluso
1,018 posts
 
I would go with the Luxman integrated.  I would listen, take a look-see, and then buy.  
erik_squires
15,994 posts
 
Hi,

Happy owner of the last new 507ux in the US here. :)

Luxman really did put in a top preamp and amp in the combo. Many brands say they do, and then it is still a step down. Not true with the Luxmans.

The only reason in my mind for separates in the Luxman is power/current needs. If you have hard to drive speakers and must have the extra large power supply.


essrand
297 posts
 
<10000$ integrated for sure.
 >$15000 (and if you are an experienced audiophile, and esp if you are going for tubes) then separates. 
There are too few tube integrated choices in the higher end price point. With separates you can do the tube preamp/SS amp combo.
thecarpathian
4,185 posts
 
They both make equal sense.
waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas
947 posts
 
Hard to make recommendations without knowing your speakers but if they are reasonably efficient, the Don Sachs 6SN7 preamp and KT88 amp for around $6K combined is an incredible value. Spend the extra $4K on music.
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