integrated amp question


I just upgraded to the maggie 12s. I want to upgrade to an integrated amp. Was thinking of Arcam A85. Any suggestions for under 1500? Can someone explain to me what are the pros/cons of seperates vs integrated amp? And what is better solid state or tube? Is there a big difference?
Thanks

tz7

Showing 1 response by s7horton

There are a lot of suggestions in the range you are asking about. Maggies like power, so I would start with the Plinius 8200. I would think that would be the best for your system. There is always Creek 5350 SE, but I don't think that would be quite enough power.

As far as advantages with integrateds: Value, you don't have two boxes, saves on materials, the unit shares a power supply, again saving on materials. You get a pre amp section that was specifically designed to be mated with the amplifier section. It's simple, and for the most part, they are easy to use. You don't have to buy an extra interconnect to go between the amp and pre amp.

There are very large differences in tubed and solid state integrateds. It all depends on what type of sound you are looking for.