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Is integrated the future for 2 channel audiophiles?

More and more integrated hitting the shelves. Although, there are plenty of dedicated preamps, I have just noticed lots of increased discussions over the past 2 years for integrated amps. 

In general, consumers are downsizing. Baby boomers retiring and going to smaller homes. Millennials and gen z prefer smaller homes as well ( in general - there are always exceptions). 

I think the turntable trendiness has leveled off ( there will always be vinyl fans...I’m talking about the people purchasing because it’s trendy). 

The masses probably favor a/v receivers. However, it seems integrated amp choices has increased quite a bit for 2 channel fans. 

Thoughts?
aberyclark

Showing 2 responses by big_greg

big_greg
6,554 posts
 
Is my 16 year old Audio Research VSI55 the future?  Cool.
big_greg
6,554 posts
 
It’s nice to have options. I have two systems built around separates and two built around integrateds. The integrateds are in smaller rooms and are very enjoyable to listen to, probably even "overkill", especially in my home office where I listen to news more than music and rarely have the volume over just barely audible levels. It would be tough to fit separates into the same space where those systems exist.

It’s hard to imagine an integrated amp replacing my 180 watt tube monoblocks and tubed preamp, at least for anything close to what I spent on those pieces, but it would be attractive if something like that existed that provided the same level of sound quality and all the features I currently have.

Right tool for the right job and all that. 
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