In the audiophile world, fans of high-end audio like to bicker endlessly about what format is best (CD, SACD or vinyl), whether to invest more in speakers or the source component or what kind of speakers are best. There is a myriad of choices available to those looking for high-end sound. One common point of contention is whether to get an integrated amplifier or to get a separate preamplifier and amplifier combination.
Integrated Amplifier
An integrated amplifier combines a power amplifier with a control amp in one chassis. The control amp acts a switcher, so that you can select between different components connected to the integrated amplifier. An integrated amplifier that has an AM/FM tuner is called a receiver. Most high-end integrated amplifiers do away with the tuner, and have a switcher and a volume control; some also will have a balance dial. Bass/treble dials are found on receivers, but rarely on integrated amplifiers, since audiophiles don't like that artificial boost.
Preamplifiers
Historically, people who wanted the best sound would get a separate preamplifier/amplifier combination. Going this way gives the user a lot of flexibility; in particular, many audiophiles like to pair the transparency and warmth of a tube preamp with the solid bass control of a transistor (solid-state) power amp to get the best sound. Preamps can be tubed or solid state, as can power amps.
Integrated Amplifier Advantages
One of the advantages of an integrated amplifier is cost. Since the control amp is built into the same chassis as the power amp, there is only one component to buy, instead of two. Further, since you don't need to buy cables to connect the preamp to the amplifier, it is cheaper, and you are dependent on the quality of the connection cable for the quality of your sound the way a preamplifier/amplifier setup is.
Preamplifier Advantages
Going with a separate preamp historically was done to get the control amp away from the hum caused by output transformers in amplifiers. Many high-end preamps will take this a step further and move the preamp power supply to a separate chassis from the preamp itself to minimize external noise. Preamps also can act as a buffer between the output impedance of the source components and the input impedance of the amplifier.
Other Considerations
For those short on space, or those who have a more limited budget, integrated amplifiers offer a lot of performance. Many high-end companies, such as Krell, McIntosh and BAT offer excellent integrated amplifiers. Separates are still favored for the ultimate in performance. In addition to being able to maximize the value of the preamp and choose a different technology (tube vs. solid state), getting a separate preamp also lets you get monoblock power amplifiers for each speaker for the ultimate in performance.
Tags: integrated amplifiers, preamplifier amplifier, amplifier combination, audiophiles like, best sound, integrated amplifier