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Depending on my needs, absolutely!
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Does it make sense to recommend integrated amps any more?
- Thread starter jsilvela
- Start date
I've never thought "integrated" amplifiers were a good idea. But that's just me.
At least for myself, it is still very good excellent (a god!) idea using "nice HiFi grade integrated amps" in multichannel multi-driver multi-amplifier DSP-based audio system. You would please find my latest system setup here on my project thread. You can find the (provisional) summary of my intensive amplifier exploration here in my project.
The pros and merits of "HiFi integrated amplifiers" in DSP multichannel setup can be found here, here, and here.
"Flexible and safe relative gain controls over all the SP drivers on-the-fly (while listening to music)" is the key feature of utilization of integrated amps, at least in my setup.
(This post would be of your reference for selection of "reasonable/affordable" small amplifier(s) driving tweeters and super-tweeters.)
Of course I know well that I can (could) do the same with four sets of HiFi "pre amp+power amp", but it would need much more budget, much more physical space, and much more complex cabling; the backside cabling in my latest setup with four integrated amps is already fairly complex enough, though.
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The both offer plus's and minus's, a very personal decision IMO.
I've always had separates since about 1980, but that's just me.
I prefer the option to update-upgrade them separately at my whim,
but that's just me.
Looks like integrated are all the rage in the high-end right now?.
At least in Japan, "HiFi rather high-end integrated amplifiers" still have their positions and markets to be well survived and reasonably profitable (I assume) , such as ACCUPHASE, LUXMAN, MARANTZ, YAMAHA, etc., etc.
The nice warranties and availability of long-term (more than 20 years!) services are/were also very important factors for my selection of Japan-domestic products/amplifiers in my project; the two typical example cases can be found here, here (Accuphase) and here (Fostex).
From aesthetic perspectives (much dependent on personal preferences, though), this thread entitled "Most aesthetically pleasing amplifiers", ant this thread entitled "Poll: Best Looking Stereo Integrated Amp", would be of your interest, I assume.
I applaud them for their long term warranties but it's all wrapped up in the price.
All manufacturers have a damn good idea what a products repair might cost them on a per year basis as it ages.
They can easily break that down and decide where they want a product to fit in against it competition.
The after-market warranty companies do the same.
Yes, I fully agree with you, especially in case of that with ACCUPHASE!
- Thread Starter
- #29
Wow, you have an amazing setup.At least for myself, it is still very good excellent (a god!) idea using "nice HiFi grade integrated amps" in multichannel multi-driver multi-amplifier DSP-based audio system. You would please find my latest system setup here on my project thread. You can find the (provisional) summary of my intensive amplifier exploration here in my project.
The pros and merits of "HiFi integrated amplifiers" in DSP multichannel setup can be found here, here, and here.
"Flexible and safe relative gain controls over all the SP drivers on-the-fly (while listening to music)" is the key feature of utilization of integrated amps, at least in my setup.
(This post would be of your reference for selection of "reasonable/affordable" small amplifier(s) driving tweeters and super-tweeters.)
Of course I know well that I can (could) do the same with four sets of HiFi "pre amp+power amp", but it would need much more budget, much more physical space, and much more complex cabling; the backside cabling in my latest setup with four integrated amps is already fairly complex enough, though.
In a case like this one, certainly, integrated amps make better sense than separates.
- Thread Starter
- #30
Agree, I like to update-upgrade.
In a case such as @dualazmak , the convenience of amp + volume in a single box is great, and more important than update/upgrade.
But say you're advising a friend, or you're setting up a new system.
If you're going for "buy one box, and you're done", I think an AVR offers more flexibility and more features than an integrated.
This is semi-controversial at ASR because of the lower SINAD of the typical AVR, but, I'll risk the statement that for most, an AVR is just fine.
If you're absolutely against AVRs and know for a fact you only want stereo, then,
if you want to get an integrated, you need to do your homework to make sure you're getting a box with a processor loop, as has been advised earlier in this thread.
Just seems it's easier to box yourself into a corner vs separates.
True but there's just no single right path, it's a very individual decision.
On one side we have @dualazmak who's signal path makes me dizzy just try to decipher.
On the other we have things like the new KEF wireless stuff where everything is inside the box.
Whatever perks your noodle.
Well,,, once you would fully understand the signal path, my system is really straightforward and simple, I believe!
My safe "ignition sequences and shutdown sequences" looks complicated at your first glance, but once getting used to it, it is really simple and easy (at least for me)!
I usually complete the shutdown sequences in less than one minute, and I complete the startup (ignition) sequences in less than two minutes...
In any way, let's enjoy beloved music using our audio systems...
For sure. I wasn't in any way bashing your rig.
Your mapping just looks scary. LOL
Of course, I always understand your sense of humor very well, and very much enjoy our info exchange! thank you again!!
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