Integrated CD/Pre + Amp or CD plus integrated amp?


Hello,

I'm planning on getting two components for my new Silverline SR-15 monitors. Thus, one of them will have to be integrated in some way or another. Two of my favorite brands (at least within the solid state realm) are Musical Fidelity and Electrocompaniet. What would the difference be in the following setups:

MF CD-Pre24 (integrated CD/Pre, now discontinued) + EC AW-220, or

MF A3.2CD + EC ECI-3 (integrated amp)

The best thing, of course, would be to hear each combination, but that's not possible for me given the dealers in my area. These are components that I've heard in various places at various times, but never together. What might be the differences inherent in these two setups? Does anyone know of any other integrated CD players I should be considering, less than $2.5k new? BTW, I can't afford the EC CD player, which would be awesome.

Thanks!
omains

Showing 1 response by seandtaylor99

I would not personally buy a CD player with an integrated preamp, because CD transports are the least reliable part of any audio chain, and when it fails you'll need a new preamp. A good amp will last 20 years with minimal servicing. A good CD player might make 10 years, if you're lucky.

I would consider a DAC with a preamp because DACs are very reliable.

However, in your case I think the integrated amp plus CD is much better, and also much more flexible if you ever decide you want to add a tuner, turntable, SACD, DVD player as a future source.