Quote Originally Posted by TazioNYC
Thanks Ajani -- I'm definitely not looking to spend money for the sake of it, so if an integrated amp in the $2-3k range like the Krell/Cambridge would match up well with some of the speakers you suggested (or the ones already on my list), not cost me anything vs separates, AND i can save some dough, so much the better.
IMO, separates are best used in situations where

1) You need 200+ watts - as few integrated amps have that much power

2) You want to mix and match (brands or maybe tubes and solid state)

3) You're building a cost-no-object reference system....

I generally find that a given price level you get more bang for your buck with an Integrated... (but of course that is my experience, so ymmv)...

Since you won't be in an extremely large room, listening at rock concert levels (and the speakers you listed aren't particularly inefficient), then a lower powered integrated will likely be a better use of your money... but clearly, if you get the chance to audition separates, you should do so and make up your own mind...

Also the speakers on your list are must audition ones in their price range... but I also suggest you audition the next level to see whether the improvements are worth it to you... so in addition to the Monitor Audio Silvers, you should check out the Gold GS20 for example and of course the PSB Synchrony line I mentioned earlier....

Have fun and don't be in rush to part with your cash... there are so many great products worth auditioning that you want to try out as many as possible before committing to a purchase...