preamp/amp or integrated? That is the question

Either these days can deliver top notch sound. The devil is in the details. There is less for the end user to get wrong that can negatively affect resulting sound and performance with a good integrated amp. They are also more compact and ergonomic. Separates give you more control but involves more smart decision making to get right.

Either can sound really good and offer good value. I use both to good effect and would have few reservations going either way these days.

I've been most impressed with the bel canto c5i I picked up recently. Hard to fault. Very user friendly as well. Just leave it on all the time pick a source (digital analog line level or phono) and play and enjoy. Quality sound done well and made reasonably affordable. c7i receiver is said to be even better.