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Want to try separates, what to expect.

Ok, I have always had an integrated amp or A/V receiver (briefly) as my main source for amplification. I started with a Lafayette tube amp that was my Granddad's. I have had a few different SS units from the late 70"s and the late 80's. I now an using a very nice Modwright KWI 200. I have this strong urge to try some modestly priced separates. Is this a move that will bring obvious sonic improvement or just subtle improvement. Just thought I would ask for opinions before I jump off that cliff. I'll likely still try it, you know how it goes in this hobby. Thanks, Allen (Mizike)
mizike
mizike OP
107 posts
 
Thanks for your comments, I appreciate the insight. By moderately priced I talking about used prices and a budget of around $12,000. Based on the cost of some of the very high end equipment, that seems moderate to me. I do sometimes think it may be hard to improve much on the Modwright with that level of investment.
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wcfeil
464 posts
 
A high quality integrated gives up nothing to modestly priced (your words) separates. 

Have a well thought out plan. Don't make a change for change sake. 
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 

By all means explore, but keep the Modwright.

That way (1) you can compare in real time between the two sets of components, and (2) you can sell on the separates if they don't outdo the Modwright.

You can probably achieve better sound, but how much of an increment is very much up for grabs.

inna
7,132 posts
 
We don't know about your speakers, your room, your sound and music preferences.
I'll just mention brands that I would consider to begin with if I wanted to make the same move. Solid state - some Rowland, some Pass, all Gryphon. Tube - Atma-Sphere, VAC, Allnic, maybe Octave. Lamm - tube preamp and hybrid amp. Ypsilon is definitely beyond your reach.
Best solid state value - Gryphon Diablo 300 integrated, about $16k new, I think, without phono or dac. There is 120 watt/ch Gryphon integrated for about $9k new, this I am not so sure.
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