Denon integrated Amp vs Monoblocks (early 90’s New Optical Class A) PMA VS. POA

[Berj Varjabedian]

Hi everyone, hope everyone is well. 

I have a pair of Martin Logan’s Motion 60xti.
They are very efficient speakers at 94db sensitivity 4 ohm (6 and 8 compatible).

I previously had the Motion 40’s and I had tested a handful of amps. What I found was the early 90’s Denon to be incredible unit themselves and perfectly compatible with the Motion series.
I have the PMA-1080r (same spec as PMA-1060 no remote version). 
It is a 105wpc into 8 ohms, new optical class A (runs first 20 or so watts in class A), 
0.008 total harmonic distortion, 4 ohm compatible. 
It’s a very musical amp, very fast, and just love it. It’s really a beautiful match for these speakers.
I found at 1/4 volume it’s so loud that I almost have to shout over it since the amp runs 160watts into 4 ohm and the speakers are really sensitive. 

I’m very happy with the setup,
I have an opportunity to buy the denon monoblocks of the same family. 
POA4400a with its matching preamp DAT2500 with original remote.
The difference, is that these are now monoblocks vs integrated amp. 
160wpc into 8ohms, 
New Optical Class A ,
same THD. 
My speakers run really efficiently on the integrated amp and I don’t believe I need more power. So what will I be able to achieve with moving to the Monoblocks?  

Also, asking price for 2 x POA4400a + DAT2500 is $2200 AUD ($1650 USD) mint condition with remote and manuals. 

Looking forward to discussing!

not sure if my first post was seen. 

[Steever]

The pre/mono combo will give you so much more than the integrated could ever dream of. I used to work at a couple of Denon retailers back when these were all current models. More recent experience (with my Cyrus gear this time) with integrated vs pre/monos reinforces previous experience with similar amplification arrangements.

 

Sure the extra power is there on tap if ever you wanted but you can expect significant gains in almost every aspect of sound quality by going to pre/power and even pre/monos as you seem to have the opportunity of doing now.

 

If you're entertaining a purchase of 120V equipment, factor in the ability of switchable voltage, if it's offered on the equipment or a voltage reducing transformer. I can't remember if the 4400/6600 monos offered voltage source selection on the rear or not.

Edited November 16, 2021 by Steever

[DRC]

I've had the 4400's. Keep in mind voltage conversion as Steever has mentioned, plus freight and GST into the final pricing. You might be closer to $2700 to $3000. The age of the units may mean reliability could be a concern too.