first off if u read his question it asks which is better amino or protein shakes and yes amino can be actually better than protein i agree it can be used for specific purposes but overall the protein shake has so much more stuff than just normal protein in it that makes this question easy to answer
Whatever floats your boat bro...but if you'd like to go into more details, amino acids have two major functions: they are either used to synthesize proteins or oxidized to be used as a form of energy. Most amino acids that are taken in tabs are the standard amino acids which are mostly used to form protein molecules, and hence why I said protein is the same as amino acids.
Regarding the protein shakes, yes, they do include more than just aminos and proteins, ex: vitamins, minerals, sometimes performance enhancers, such as creatine, glutamine, ginseng, etc...Therefore, overall, they are better...however, the the significance of aminos cannot be denied, therefore I take both, protein shakes and aminos.
I read on another forum that 25grams of BCAA is equal to 50 grams of protein.
"The phrase branched-chain amino acids or BCAA is sometimes used to refer to the amino acids having aliphatic side-chains that are non-linear. These are leucine, isoleucine and valine. The combination of these three essential amino acids make up approximately 1/3 of skeletal muscle in the human body, and play an important role in protein synthesis. BCAA’s are currently used clinically to aid in the recovery of burn victims, as well as for supplementation for strength athletes." - Wikipedia -
Studies show that adding bcaas to your post workout induces a greater level of hypertrophy and places the body in an anabolic state.
Perhaps this is enough details for you.
Cheers,
Alcatraz