Integrated Amplifiers: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Integrated amplifiers are a crucial component of many high-performance audio systems, and they play a vital role in delivering exceptional sound quality. They combine a preamplifier, power amplifier, and often a phono stage and a DAC (digital to analog converter), all in one unit. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of integrated amplifiers, their various features, and factors to consider when choosing one.

The Benefits of Integrated Amplifiers

Integrated amplifiers are a popular choice among music lovers and audio enthusiasts because of the significant benefits they offer. One of the advantages is their simplicity and compact design. Unlike separate preamps and power amps, integrated amplifiers take up less space, making them ideal for those with limited room. They also eliminate the need to purchase expensive interconnects and take some of the guesswork out of equipment matching. Additionally, setting up an integrated amplifier is simpler because you only need to connect one unit to your speakers and source components.

Integrated amplifiers can also provide cost savings compared to buying separate components. Audio purists (audiophiles) may purchase separate preamps, power amplifiers, external DACs, music streamers, and sometimes external power supplies, resulting in five separate boxes that all require quite a number of extensive (often expensive) cables. This complicates system matching and increases costs. By integrating most, if not all, of these components into one box, an integrated amplifier can simplify the process of creating a quality high-fidelity stereo system.

Audio enthusiasts used to believe that separating components could achieve better sound quality. However, today's integrated amplifiers have become so good that, for a high percentage of consumer stereo systems, this is no longer true. Moreover, with today's digital signal processing (DSP) and room correction technologies, improving sound quality can be done within the integrated amplifier's software, which is usually controlled by an app on a phone or tablet. Many old-school audiophile purists may dismiss these technologies, but the fact remains that they work very well and can make one-box integrated amplifiers not only competitive but even rival separate systems that have been meticulously put together.

Features of Integrated Amplifiers

When choosing an integrated amplifier, there are several features to consider. While power output is often assumed to be one of the most critical factors, it is actually less important than many people believe. The wattage per channel (wpc) does not necessarily indicate a better sounding amplifier. Instead, it is more about the quality of amplification provided by the amplifier, rather than the quantity. You can learn more about this here: Ask The Attic: Amplifiers And Wattage

When choosing an integrated amplifier, it is important to consider the number of inputs and outputs it has and how the user plans to use the system. For example, if a person only wants to use a turntable with massive speakers capable of handling very low frequencies, they only need an integrated amplifier with a phono stage and a couple of analog inputs.

However, if a user has bookshelf speakers, subwoofers, a turntable, a CD player, a music streamer, and wants to connect their speakers to the TV for a 2.1 Netflix experience, they will need an integrated amplifier with multiple analog and digital inputs, dedicated subwoofer outputs, and possibly even an HDMI ARC connection.

Regardless of the requirements, build quality is also crucial, as it affects the durability, longevity, and sound quality of the amplifier.

What about tone controls? Personally, I love them. I know some consider them to be a degradation of sound quality, as they add a filter in the signal path. However, considering the wide range of music genres and different recording practices, I think they are necessary and a lot of fun.

For instance, some jazz recordings are quite delicate, and when listening at lower volumes, it's nice to boost the treble a bit to hear the subtle details of the drummer's cymbals and the intricacies of a standup bass. But when switching to another genre of music, like rock or heavy metal, and listening levels are turned up, I personally like to turn the treble down a bit and boost the bass frequencies. It's all a matter of personal preference and subjectivity but tone controls give the user the option to make the overall sound of their system more palatable and sometimes easier to listen to over long periods of time.

Almost all integrated amplifiers that have tone controls have a bypass button to turn off the tone controls entirely, so you don't have to use them. But having the option is still very important.

On the other hand, fewer features like tone controls, DSP, and room correction on an integrated amplifier can be a good thing because there are fewer distractions from fiddling and tweaking. This somewhat forces or helps the listener to simply enjoy the music especially if the integrated amplifier is of exceptional quality like the Leema Pulse IV.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Integrated Amplifier

When choosing an integrated amplifier, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the type of music you listen to and the size of your listening room along with the demand of the speakers as some speakers are much harder to drive than others. This will help determine the power output needed. Second, (as addressed above) consider the type of source components you have, such as turntables, CD players, or digital devices. Make sure the amplifier you choose has enough inputs to accommodate your components. Third, consider your budget. Integrated amplifiers range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Finally, consider the brand and reputation of the manufacturer. Look for companies with a long history of producing high-quality audio equipment and manufacturers that are backed by good warranty and service team.

Conclusion

The market is flooded with many high-quality integrated amplifiers, so if you're in the market for one, you should be excited about the many choices available. One piece of advice I would offer from personal experience is not to rush your decision and find a dealer who can help you make an informed choice. This is one of my favorite Hifi stores.

Ideally, you want the dealer to demo several different amplifiers in their shop using music that you're familiar with. Even better, if they allow an in-home demo for a week, you can get a clearer idea of how it will sound in your own space. Keep in mind that the room the system is set up in has a significant impact on how it sounds. With careful consideration, you can find an integrated amplifier that will deliver exceptional sound quality and provide years of listening pleasure.

Remember, the only person who has to like your stereo system is you (and maybe your significant other), so if you find something that you like and it meets your requirements and sounds good to your ears, be confident that you made the right decision. Just relax and enjoy!

Thanks for reading and happy listening!