The world of high-fidelity audio and home theater is a realm of endless possibilities, where audiophiles and enthusiasts continuously seek ways to elevate their audio experiences. One intriguing option is the use of an integrated amplifier as a preamp, coupled with an external power amplifier. This setup provides versatility and potential performance improvements, offering the best of both worlds. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the concept of using an integrated amp as a preamp and adding a power amp, shedding light on the advantages, considerations, and potential outcomes of this approach.
Understanding Integrated Amps
An integrated amplifier, often referred to as an “integrated amp,” is an all-in-one audio component that combines a preamplifier (preamp) and a power amplifier (power amp) in a single chassis. Integrated amps are designed to amplify audio signals from various sources (e.g., CD players, turntables, and streaming devices) and drive passive speakers. They offer a compact, space-saving solution for audio enthusiasts.
Using an Integrated Amp as a Preamp
The idea of using an integrated amplifier as a preamp involves bypassing its internal power amplification stage and utilizing only its preamp section. The process generally involves the following steps:
- Connect Sources: Connect your audio sources (e.g., CD player, turntable, media streamer) to the integrated amp’s inputs. These connections typically occur via analog or digital connections.
- Preamp Outputs: Instead of connecting the integrated amp to passive speakers, connect it to an external power amplifier. Most integrated amps have preamp outputs, which provide a line-level signal. Use these outputs to send the signal to the external power amp.
- Volume Control: Adjust the volume control on the integrated amp to set the desired audio level. Since it’s functioning as a preamp, it is responsible for controlling the source signals’ volume.
- External Power Amp: The line-level signal from the integrated amp’s preamp outputs is then sent to an external power amplifier, which amplifies the signal and drives your passive speakers.
Advantages of This Setup
- Flexibility: This setup provides flexibility, allowing you to combine the preamp section of your integrated amp with various external power amplifiers. This can help you tailor your system to match your audio preferences and needs.
- Sound Customization: If you have a particular liking for the sound character of your integrated amp’s preamp section, this approach allows you to retain that sound signature while potentially upgrading the power amplification stage.
- System Expansion: You can add more power to your system without replacing the entire integrated amp. This is particularly useful for those who wish to move to a bi-amp or multi-amp configuration.
- Budget Considerations: If you’re on a budget, using your integrated amp as a preamp with an external power amp can be a cost-effective way to enhance your audio system’s performance.
Considerations and Potential Outcomes
While using an integrated amp as a preamp with an additional power amp offers versatility, several considerations and potential outcomes should be kept in mind:
- Compatibility: Ensure that your integrated amp has preamp outputs. Not all integrated amps have this feature. Additionally, make sure your external power amp is compatible with the signal levels and impedance of the integrated amp’s preamp outputs.
- Interconnects: High-quality interconnect cables are crucial for maintaining audio signal integrity. Be sure to use appropriate cables for connecting the integrated amp to the external power amp.
- Volume Control: The volume control on your integrated amp becomes the primary means of adjusting audio levels. Make sure it is accessible and convenient for your setup.
- Room for Both Components: Ensure that you have enough space and proper ventilation for both the integrated amp and the external power amp in your audio rack or equipment cabinet.
- Matching Components: The synergy between the integrated amp’s preamp and the external power amp is crucial. Experimentation and careful component matching can help you achieve your desired sound quality.
Conclusion
Using an integrated amp as a preamp with an external power amp is a versatile and potentially cost-effective way to enhance your audio system. This approach allows you to retain the qualities you appreciate in your integrated amp’s preamp section while potentially upgrading the power amplification stage. Careful consideration of compatibility, interconnects, volume control, and component matching is essential to maximize the benefits of this setup. By harnessing this versatility, you can achieve a sound quality that aligns with your audio preferences and needs, taking your audio experience to new heights.
