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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
elliottbnewcombjr
5,118 posts
 
R2R reduces 88" to 68", TT reduces to 48".
tuberist's avatar
tuberist
951 posts
 
It does seem like more all in one units are becoming commonplace. Personally, I run an integrated with a streamer-dac. This is a two box system and for many years I had separates and a "stack" of components. I'm just not into component swap outs anymore. I'm enjoying what I have.
goose
668 posts
 
The new Aesthetix mimas with the phono stage option has caught my attention. 
stevenyc
23 posts
 
I heard the Aesthetix Mimas with a pair of Vandersteen Quatro Wood CT speakers and they sounded incredible. Soundstage came at me from every angle. I just could not believe heft it delivered. Mind you, this is a 150 WPC integrated with more than enough power. On the other-hand, my 120 WPC Simaudio W-3 is decent, but the Aesthetix really drove those babies. Full disclosure: I have the Vandersteen Treo CTs and torn between the  Audio Research tubed separates vs. the Mimas. What do you think and have you had any experience with either models?


Cheers
audiofound
81 posts
 
It is with me. I'm currently looking at several brands of integrated amps to go with my Harbeth speakers. I could look at separates but in many cases you'll be spending more money on an amp/preamp and additional cables. The separates may or may not sound better. But integrated amps are fast gaining ground especially from a sonic quality perspective.
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