another rookie question - preamp or or power amp


I have a decent integrated amp ("decent" - to my ears). SS, 50Watts to 8 Ohms. It  has a preamp output. 

I have been looking at used power amps and preamps in the 2-400 dollar range.  

For example: the Parasound 2125 power amp, the Parasound P3

This is an OR question. Which choice will yield a better improvement,

1) if I put a preamp before my integrated so the integrated acts as the power amp

or 2) if I use my integrated as a preamp to a power amp?

It's also a choice to sell my integrated and save up until I can buy both a power amp and a preamp, but obviously I am itching to try one of the above options. 

My room is 15x13 so I am not sure I need a big power amp (big: 100Watts?)

 

grislybutter

What is your current integrated?

Do you feel the need for more power? 

Maybe just looking for a different sound?

@mahgister Merry Christmas to you too!

@ozzy62 right. I know it won't buy much. I thought a Parasound 2125 power amp, the Parasound P3 would be an upgrade.

@mesch it's a Denon receiver. It has what I prefer, it's 2 channel, no phono, with preamp, sounds great. I am looking for a little warmer sound and power = more effortless mids

@audphile1 I see. I don't think a used Hegel H190 will go under $3000 in the near future, I checked hifishark. That's almost 8 times my budget. 

I guess I can conclude that for my budget I can't do much. Still, I was curious if preamp or amp would yield the bigger improvement. 

Another consideration is, I sold some old gear, I have about $400, if I don't use it, it will be gone soon. A pipe will break, a medical need or emergency trip will arise, etc. it will be used for a necessity  

Thanks again everyone!

There are some really good integrated amps, but there are advantages in going with separates too.  Which is better is a variable...it depends on the particular component in question.  If you get another integrated, it could be an upgrade, or it could be a sideways step.  Ultimately, I opted for separates and have never regretted it.  There's a lot more flexibility with separates, and the physical and electrical isolation is a plus.