2. amps-preamps
  3. 146319-12450

Why the facination with integrated amps?

I don’t get it. Is it the manufacturers spotting a trend with the tail wagging the dog or does a significant market segment truly prefer the idea of an integrated?
Pros;
Less space
One less set of IC’s
In theory-one less chassis/case to pay for
Shorter signal paths possible
Can combine transformer/cap function
Cons;
Power supply interference/spuriae
Reduced Flexibility-can’t switch amp or preamp as easily or go to monoblocs
Less resonance control
Long history of lesser performance per measurements and long-term subjective listening
Less resale value if it turns out to be a fad
Less liklihood of an extremely high performing active preamp

I freely admit I am a skeptic. The industry-like so many others-looks for new market niches to move product. 
FWIW, the only integrateds I myself would care to audition would be from Esoteric and Luxman who have a long history of designing no-compromise (low-compromise) high-end integrateds. 

128x128fsonicsmith
hififile
227 posts
 
I had McIntosh amp and preamp in a large living room. I had excellent sound. We sold the house and the McIntosh gear. I now have a dedicated 18 x 12 music room. I purchased a Luxman integrated. I was prepared to have downgraded sound because I went "integrated". I was very pleasantly surprised, the Luxman gave me better sound. (I know different room, different speaker placement) but none the less, better sound, and excellent features on the Luxman. I also have the option to use the "separate" feature on the front panel and remote and use the Luxman as a dedicated preamp, if I wanted to buy a new amp.

Bottom Line... Integrateds can provide excellent sound!
inna
5,245 posts
 
Of course, just not the best sound. As mentioned above, power supply compromise is the last thing that I would want and lack of true separation of low level and high level circuitry is a big audiophile no no. 
metman
214 posts
 
That's all well and good but at what cost?   In the real world with mortgage payments, college tuition, and the ever increasing cost of living many people have to find a middle ground of sorts and compromise somewhere
inna
5,245 posts
 
Right. Including me, at least for now. Economic future is getting more and more uncertain for the majority, I think. I currently spend less on equipment upgrades than I could.
inna
5,245 posts
 
That’s one reason why I am interested in Gryphon Diablo 300 and consider getting it at some point in time, most likely used. It is very close to no-compromise integrated, of course it’s a compromise compared to Gryphon separates. If it lasts me for ten years, even new this would not be too much. Problem is that you have to pay upfront or finance on not so favorable terms. But eventually I think I’ll get it, unless I decide to go all tubes or get very lucky with older Gryphon separates.
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