After years of separates, I'm going integrated. Anyone else do the same?

It all depends on how you like to spend your time. Sometimes I just want to listen, but other times I’m in them mood to explore and tweak.

So I have 6 separate means of amplification (monoblocks, solid state power, tube power, classic, newer) 4 separate preamps (tube, SS, multichannel, classic, newer) 4 different sets of speakers plus surround, and a NOS DAC and a Delta Sigma DAC.

So how many different configuration possibilities are there? Do things sound different? What works well together? My opinions evolve.

So at this stage I don’t care about clutter; actually I love it. Maybe sometime I won’t.

One thing I will say about integrated systems: they are meant to work together, so you should get good synergies between the sections in the component. HOWEVER, if you do get the urge to explore, you may find the preamp section only mates well with the built-in amp, and vice versa, and so you can’t really convert your integrated into a separate effectively. Those extra ins and outs on integrated units are generally for convenience, not necessarily high quality interaction with separates.

It’s all just fun though.

@mapman 

"What is life" was the first song I learned on guitar. I was 11. I miss 11...

 It’s a timeless tune. One of my favorites written by a Beatle and that video does it due justice.

I've been a long time owner of separates but agree today's integrated amps can be pretty awesome.    Im having a 300b built that can be an "integrated" amp with it's two inputs and volume controls, but I plan on using it as a power amp with a pre in front of it I plan on trying it with a source alone and with a pre-amp.   Who knows , but I suspect it will sound better with a preamp.

I also purchased the Luxman 590axii but hadn't heard Luxman is "getting out of the Class A business".  A good integrated forms the basis for a "compact reference system", which is what I tried to put together since I really am space-limited.  However, I'm intrigued with the new Atmasphere Class D power amps and if the industry can start making these small and light, as good or better sounding as Class A and at a value price, then I could see going to separates.  I don't have to move the Luxman.  Once was enough putting it on an upper shelf.  It weighs 65 lbs.  and it took two of us.