Why amps, pre-amps, integrated amps???


OK, having thusfar asked questions on this forum that have exposed me to the odd raised eyebrow and snicker for my gross audio ignorance, I shall go farther still, and venture to ask: What, exactly, are amps, pre-amps, and integrated amps??. More to the point, what, exactly, is their purpose; what do they do? And why do pre-amps and amps still exist comfortably in the audio market when you can get them combined as an integrated amp?? I just don't get it. Would much appreciate your learned revelations - after, of course, you've finished with your hoots, knee-slaps, and cat-calls.
georgester

Showing 1 response by lloydc

If your speakers need much power, you need a bigger amp(s) than an integrated can accomodate. It is difficult to find an integrated which equals the performance of separates. They necessarily involve compromises due to size constraints. The arguments in their favor are that they potentially allow one to eliminate a whole bunch of expensive cables, and usually take up less space. However, some "integrateds" have a separate power supply, which negates the size advantage.

You see an awful lot of "reason for sale - downsizing" ads on the Gon these days, as the boomers age and move into smaller places. That usually means getting an integrated to replace separates.