What is an Integrated Amplifier?
An integrated amplifier puts the preamplifier and the power amplifier in one box, so it selects your sources, sets the volume and drives the speakers on its own. It is the usual starting point for a two-channel system and the largest group here.
How much power do these have?
The 209 Integrated Amplifiers listed here run from 22 to 500 watts RMS into 8 ohms, with a median of 88 watts. For most rooms and most speakers the median is already more than enough - doubling the watts buys about 3dB, which is a small step in loudness. Sensitivity and impedance decide more than the number on the box.
What do they cost?
Currently $130 to $20,000, with a median of $2,000. Prices are the current asking price we hold, not a sale price, and they change - check the retailer before deciding.
Which features should I check for?
160 of 209 have a built-in DAC, so a computer, TV or CD transport can connect digitally; 136 have a phono stage for a turntable; 76 also stream over the network.
Integrated, or separate pre and power amplifiers?
An integrated amplifier is one box, one power supply and one price, and it is the right answer for most systems. Separates let you upgrade one half at a time and put the power amplifier near the speakers, at the cost of another box, another cable and more money.