2-3K, Integrated or Seperates

As with all things, it depends on what you want. The upside of separates, it seems to me, is that you can upgrade one and keep the other, at least for awhile. The upside of integrateds is that you'll get more functionality out of the same budget.

For three-k you can get some pre-owned stuff that would totally kick butt in either camp. One other thing to consider is whether you like your music warm or snappy. In my opinion, the quick-tempo'ed detail freaks out there (like me) are better off with separates, while the lush, rosy sonic palettes have a lot more choices for integrateds. Someone's going to pounce on that, but it is my experience.

thinking out of the box...a new musical designs amp and pre

>I'm thinking of using this system in a relatively small space with stand or shelf mounted monitors.

Hi Bmdduck,

Definitely take a peek at the Red Wine Audio Signature 30.2:
http://www.redwineaudio.com/Signature_30.2.html

It is definitely one the very best (if not "the" best) sounding in its price range.
For a small space, you probably don't want a separate preamp and power amp taking up space, not to mention the extra interconnects and power cords. The RWA is all about simplicity and is only 12" wide x 9" deep. Just add a good source and speakers and you'll be all set!

Good luck,

Nate

I can't speak for the sound of the Red Wine as I have not heard it, but at the price point, using a passive attenuator for volume control on their integrated version(I think they use GoldPoint or DacT) seems like the best way to get the most bang for the buck and possibly the very best implementation of a passive pre as it does not require interconnects and should have minimal or no impedance matching issues. If the Red Wine sounds good and works well with your speakers, it should be very fine indeed and a good way to spend 2-3K

Go the full integration route with the Magnum Dynalab MD 208 receiver! Subwoofer output and smooth, lush Simaudio-made amplifier section.