If money is no issue separates can often reach a higher level of performance (think Vinnie Rossi L2 + Pass monoblocs) provided ancillaries are top notch. But some integrated (Ypsilon Phaeton, Bakoon amp13r) are absolutely splendid and costs -30/-50% of the equivalent separates solution delivering better value for money and a more elegant setup.
Are integrated amps technically better than separates?
I'm assuming we are talking same class of amplifier and the integrated has the features you want. I'm thinking the integrated could actually be an improvement over separates due to being a more "direct" connection. Taking away the flexibility factor of separates, is my line of thinking correct?