Is system synergy worth having matched components?

@holmz

For my approach I would use my last purchase as an example. I was searching for a tube based preamp to upgrade from a less expensive model and did not want simply hit or miss by experimentation. I researched my amplifier online and found a fellow who works for Fairaudio.de , a german based audio publication and component review group similar to Stereophile. He does this for a living and he paired the preamp I was considering (EAR yoshino 868) with the Bryston 4B3 and was still using it several years later in his reference test system. I wrote him a letter, and he responded, giving me enough valuable information to know the synergy between the two was what I was looking for. I did not have to reinvent the wheel. I was also able to confirm the pairing with the fellow I purchased the preamp from as well.  

No.

For many years I have been using tube pres and solid-state power amps.  I like the nouanced presentation with the kick-ass speaker control.

Not many manufacturers major on both.

I would add that some manufacturers make a better sounding amp compared with their preamp, and visa versa, and are well known for that component.  Then it makes sense to mix and match, providing that they mate well impedance wise.  I've been using a tube preamp, SS power amp combination for many years. I imagine with the very high end gear (Pass, Audio Research, Lamm, etc.,) using the same brand for both would work well, but I haven't been lucky enough to test that theory.  

Back in the day, Linn was all about synergy. Their components did actually sound better together.  If you are looking for the best sound quality then that comes down mostly to the component design and the sound you are looking for.  For example, some people prefer a more musical sound so not all amps and preamps are designed for that SQ.  Some people prefer a more open, dynamic, and detailed sound.  Most components are not designed to do both although I am sure to get responses that people have both.  So the impedance matching s one thing to consider but there is more to it that just that.

Happy Listening.     

I figure that a pre and amp from the same manufacturer were developed and tuned using the maker’s other pieces, so, *by design*, they should. Up to the listener to decide. My personal view is to at least try a maker’s pre + amp together - if there is useful combined voicing, I think it would be the pre/amp combo

I’m currently using a Mac tube pre into a McIntosh ss amp, and love the combo. But I also swap amps and run the pre into a Will Vincent el34 pp amp, and love the sound of those two together 

So, experiment and enjoy! Have a great day