Separates or Integrated? What makes more sense?

Really agree with the interconnect and power lead dilemma with separates. Bottom line is if you like the sound of either separate(+connections) or integrated that's all that matters.No real right or wrong.

I like to have the preamp near the listening position (for accessibility) and the amp near the speakers (for short speaker cables). That also means only a small amp stand between the speakers, not something large that potentially messes with the imaging. So separates for me.

After 40 years of this and that, using amp friendly impedance curves AND efficient loudspeakers, eliminating a set or two of wires between components, integrated makes complete sense. Now you have a choice between long lasting tubes and outrageous SS. Best of both worlds might be LTA? Depends on what you are driving and the driving conditions. 


 

Buy an accuphase integrated. The best integrated I’ve heard. IMO better than pass or Luxman. 

Primaluna’s latest offering is surprisingly good for integrated in the $4k to $5k range. There is no magic in spending $10k versus some other sum...

Quick example: friend has massive system, in the $250k to $300k range (think Focal Grand Utopia). I’ve spent about 20x less. Is his system better. Absolutely. We both agree when comparatively listening. Is it 20x better? We both agree not. 

Some great pairings happen when carefully listening and choosing components that go well together, regardless of price tag.