i prefer the integrated route so you only have to buy one PC and save money on an IC too. For example, just think of the better quality speaker wire or source you could get with the money you save. I think this justifies an integrated in all but the best systems.
Integrated vs separates
I'm sure this has been asked many times here before but how do you all feel about integrated amps vs separates? I've heard many times, dollar for dollar, you can't beat the sound quality of a good integrated amp, but if ultimate performance is what you are after and cost is less of a concern then separates are superior. I guess what sort of confuses me is I have read reviews in the mags suggesting that integrated amps have an advantage simply because there is one less interconnect in the chain and the amp and preamp section are designed to be together. Others will say that dividing the amp and preamp into separate chassis will ultimately provide superior results (larger power supplies, less noise). I reallize this may be an over simplification of the issue.
The reason I ask is I have recently acquired rather efficient speakers (JM Lab Mini Utopias) that just don't need the power of larger separates. Could I possibly get BETTER sound by going with a good integrated or will the sound from an integrated be a compromise?
Current system: JM Lab Mini Utopias, Pass X-250 Amp, Pass X-1 Pre, Ayre CX-7e CD Player, Kimber 8TC Speaker Cable, Kimber Silver Steak Balanced Interconnects, PS Audio P300 Power Conditioner
Thanks for your input.
The reason I ask is I have recently acquired rather efficient speakers (JM Lab Mini Utopias) that just don't need the power of larger separates. Could I possibly get BETTER sound by going with a good integrated or will the sound from an integrated be a compromise?
Current system: JM Lab Mini Utopias, Pass X-250 Amp, Pass X-1 Pre, Ayre CX-7e CD Player, Kimber 8TC Speaker Cable, Kimber Silver Steak Balanced Interconnects, PS Audio P300 Power Conditioner
Thanks for your input.