Preamp with an integrated amp

[ppchiu]

Hi All,

I was wondering if I would benefit from using a preamp with an integrated amp? The combo I'm looking at is the Music Angel 845 and the Music Angel Marantz 7.

I'm also curious as to how a preamp helps the sound because I always thought that the less things you put in your system, the less distortion you add, so wouldn't an integrated amp have the minimum amount of parts and therefore be the most accurate?

Thanks in advance

[defect9]

if the preamp has the kind of color you want to add to your system (assuming it lacks this color) then it would be a percieved benefit.

otherwise, you won't increase your sound quality by adding a preamp to an integrated.

why not try it and see how you like it? (this suggestion assumes you have a preamp on hand)

[Original Burnedfingers]

I wasn't impressed with the sound of the Music Angel 845 as it was sold. It starts to sound somewhat better after it has been modified. The 845 I heard needed a preamp/line stage ahead of it in order to get enough gain. I surely wouldn't class the 845 as an integrated amplifier just because it has a gain control on the front end.


The Music Angel Marantz 7 is a less than desireable attempt at a sort of clone. My suggestion is to buy or build a better line stage or preamp.