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.
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?)
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@audphile1 as I wrote above it’s a 2 channel denon receiver, from the 90s, with a preamp out. 50Watts into 8Ohm @knotscott I am trying trying trying the separates route but everyone pushes back :) @dekay thanks! |
Knowing what i know now i will go with separate for speakers or active speakers with preamplifier + headphone out ( which is what i own ) ...For many reasons ... Flexibility, tube -S.S. combined, tone controls equalizers addition , top preamplification stage superior to most integrate at some price point ... Also upgrading scale is easier with 2 pieces than one ... And i own a top Sansui alpha 607i integrated where all is very good...but i did not have the model upscale Sansui where pre is separable from the power section alas!... I use it only with my headphone now anyway which are impossible to drive well with most headphone amplifier if not all ... I know i tried for one day with one of the best tubes headphone amp existing and i fail ( no comparison at all) and return back to the headphone out of the 100 watts Sansui after a heavy lost of money ( almost 300 bucks) ...
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@mahgister the Sansui looks awesome! |
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