The limitation with integrated amps used to be noise levels cramming more circuits into close proximity with power transformers, etc.
That limitation seems to have been largely resolved these days. Integrated amps seem able to deliver more juice while maintaining dead quiet noise levels. The all digital Class D Bel Canto C5i I have in my second system is a good example. Even a $90 Fosi 40 watt Class D integrated amp with Bluetooth (about the size of a pack of cigarettes)I use in a third system is dead quiet.
That limitation seems to have been largely resolved these days. Integrated amps seem able to deliver more juice while maintaining dead quiet noise levels. The all digital Class D Bel Canto C5i I have in my second system is a good example. Even a $90 Fosi 40 watt Class D integrated amp with Bluetooth (about the size of a pack of cigarettes)I use in a third system is dead quiet.