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Integrated amp: Can it perform equal to separates?

I need to downsize to lessen moving expenses. Want ot find an integrated amp that can possibly perform equal to separates. Currently have a Bel Canto PRe3 line stage and a pair of Red Dragon M-500 digital monoblocks. I am also getting out of analog, and want to have just two pieces of electronics, that is, an integrated amp, and a CD player.

I need at least 100-150 RMS. Don't need any special features on the integrated that is, theater processor loop or inboarded DAC. Can spend up to approx $2100 for a USED and VGC integrated?? Thanks, Jim
sunnyjim
warrenh's avatar
warrenh
2,299 posts
 
There are so many factors involved with your question "can it perform equal to separates?" But If we are going to talk about integrated amps, and if you can find one used (very difficult and you know the reason why) I would go for the YBA Passion Integrated. The sweetest high current 100 wpc SS I've every heard. If I were going to move from my Bel Canto SET 40 amp (not happening)to SS, I would go for the YBA Passion Stereo Amp. I love YBA: Passionately.
phaelon
1,049 posts
 
Sunnyjim,
All things being equal (except cost), separates, just by virtue of redundancy, should have the potential to outperform an integrated. If cost if figured into the equation, I’ll take an integrated almost every time, because the slight potential gain to be realized by that redundancy will rarely justify the cost.

If, what you’re really asking is, can you get top notch, state of the art performance from an integrated, the answer is an unequivocal yes.

I did the same thing you’re looking to do, and haven’t looked back.
gopher
499 posts
 
Yes, absolutely. There are some excellent integrateds out there which far outperform separates in the same price range.

Some examples I've personally experienced over the last couple years have been Melody, Redgum and Decware.
vladimir
346 posts
 
I agree with Warrenh. Many years ago, when the first Focals came to the US, that little integrated was the only one that could make them listenable. Another real classic.
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