What sound diff. can I expect from PrimaLuna EVO 400 pre and power amps VS an EVO400 int.


I like the tube sound. How much better will the sound of an EVO 400pre and EVO 400 power amp setup be than that I would get from their EVO 400 integrated amp?  (I like classical (the 1400s -1900s music) and soft Jaz.). I am into vinyl and CDs on occasion  I just wonder if the expense is worth an empty bank account, or if it would be noticeable.

Also, is the PrinaLuna phono stage for MC cartridges any good?

Another option is the EVO 400 preamp and a solid-state amp.  Any thoughts?

Thanks

oldgoat912

IIRC when I asked Upscale this question in 2021 when I bought my 300 Evo Integrated the reply I got was that is was something like a 15-20% sound improvement for separates - for about double the price.

The specific tubes being used can be a variable if they're not exactly the same.  I definitely prefer  to stay with all tube, but I suppose it depends somewhat on what speakers you're driving.  Switching to SS will sound different.

Thank you all for the responses.  I have the speakers nailed. In 1978 I upgraded to Klipsch Cornwall II speakers from Heresys. I paid a whopping $ 479 each, and have never looked back. They still sound great. Now that I have a few bucks, if I could find a pair of KHorns in good condition, and for a reasonable price, I would add them to my system.

I have a Clear Audio turntable with an upgraded Satisfy black tonearm and Concept Low output MC cartridge. That was my upgrade from a 40-year-old B&O turntable: a significant improvement there.

I am using a Willsenton R8 integrated Chinese-made tube amp with KT88 tubes and a Schiit Mani phono stage. The system sounds better than anything I have had before, but keep asking myself what I can do to make improvements in the sound produced.  The Mani produces a sound quality far above its price point.

I suspect that the PL EVO 400 integrated will be a marked improvement, but the phono stage is an open question. My MC cartridge is low output. 

Suggestions?

Thanks      

Since you're open to used, I'd look into something on this level

Manley Chinook tube phono preamp For Sale - US Audio Mart

tubed, good reviews. I demoed one in my setup.  These can be had for less, if you're a negotiator or patient/ready to pounce on better price.

The Mani is great for what it is-a $150 phono amp. I had one as a backup while getting my proper unit repaired.

"I am using a Willsenton R8 integrated Chinese-made tube amp with KT88 tubes "

The PL will have noticeably better construction details/parts, but It may not be leagues "better" in SQ?

Based on things I've read, it's a decent amp-for the price. Just how much "better" the PL integrated would be something between you and your ears?

That's where separates AND your wallet will make a significant difference.

The bad news you should already know is it always adds up to the sum of ALL the parts.