This is more complicated than it appears for me. I got a nice integrated with a 12AX7 in the phono stage. I have had fun playing with different tubes to tailor the sound. I also still have my tube preamp and amp. The Pre and amp also allow me to tube roll and try different amps with the preamp and then there is the question of what cable to use and how it will affect the sound. These are quite close in tonality and inner detail, spaciousness etc but the slight nod goes to the separates. If Only had the integrated I'd not miss anything but knowing the other set is slightly better is an annoyance. heh. Audiophile neurosis. Guess I'll keep both depending on my mood and the speakers.
After years of separates, I'm going integrated. Anyone else do the same?
I'm rethinking my listening room. I want my audio rack to be more minimalist vs lots of boxes, wires, and clutter. I know separates, in general, will sound better. However, at the level of my system, I'm not certain the difference would be as apparent. In the grand scheme of things of Audiophilia, my level of components are mid-fi at best (BHK Pre, First Watt J2, Elac PPA-2 phono, Pro-ject s2 Dac, ZU Omen Defs)
I'm favoring one of the Luxman Class A's (I know Luxman is getting out of the Class A business. The only way I would favor a built-in Dac is if it were upgradable like McIntosh or Accuphase. I'm guessing a Luxman or Mac built-in phono would sound just as good as to what I have now (Elac PPA-2).
So the question is, who else has gone to integrated? Do you regret the move or are you glad you did?
- ...
- 210 posts total
- 210 posts total