Preamps and processors handle the music and video signals before going on to an amplifier, your speakers, and ultimately your ears. Typically built into a receiver or an integrated amplifier, having them separate offers significant advantages. As dedicated components, these “separates” are able to do a better job. Everything will be cleaner and clearer, and as signal technologies improve, you can switch out just one of these babies without changing your whole system. It’s also the best way to build a better system over time. Separates are the way to go if you can.
