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Upgrade Time

I hate to post another integrated vs separates discussion but I could use some input. My current system is Olympica Nova II's, Cambridge 851N (streamer/DAC/preamp), Cambridge 651W (amp).

I'm planning on spending <$10K on my next component upgrade which I'm thinking will be a new amp. I'm curious how folks here would allocate that money. My initial thought is to use that money towards a separate amp and just go all in on that. In a year or two I can upgrade the preamp or DAC. I certainly wouldn't be spending more than $10K for this future upgrade. Probably closer to 5-8K but who knows, maybe I'll feel compelled to go big again.

Given how far integrateds have come, however, I'm wondering if I'd actually be better off spending the 10K going that route.

Either way, I'm curious to hear which models you recommend. 
128x128jpearson3131
mrklas
441 posts
 
I don’t think a separate amp,is the best route. 
My experience has been a quality preamp accentuates the source. I used to use an integrated amp. I added a preamp (MC 2600) and it impacted my system so much I have replaced the integrated amp with an amp, upgrade the DAC, turntable, speakers and interconnects in order and with significant impact. 
The last upgrades were Sonus Sonetto Vs to Sonus faber olympica nova  Vs and Kimber Kable loom. 
alan60's avatar
alan60
179 posts
 
Jadis integrated's or pre/powers work like magic with Sonus Faber. I know the UK distributor who does both Jadis and Sonus Faber and this is a combination he loves at whatever budget range you are.
cd45123
195 posts
 
Audio by Van Alstine…the DMA225 monos and one of their pre amps. Backert labs pre also could be amazing. You could go Lumin or Innuos on the streamer. I think they would make beautiful music with the Nova IIs
mtbiker29's avatar
mtbiker29
170 posts
 
Luxman or Hegel integrated, the rest on streamer if needed after the fact.  
cerrot's avatar
cerrot
1,700 posts
 
If you're into this for the music, get an intergraded, if you're into the hifi hobby, get separates and try to spend all 10k on a used 5 star amp (like Jeff Rowland).  
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