Separates w/internal phono vs Integrated + phono

I understand there are lots of variable that can influence and change specific results but it's a very general question and given a range of equipment to work with (which I don't have access to) I could probably understand what path has the most potential. For example putting a $4k phono with $5K integrated vs $9K of separates (internal phono). Does the $5K integrated choke the benefit of the $4K phono (that is probably the question)? $5K should buy you a decent integrated, $4K a decent phono and $9K a decent separates.

Just hoping someone comes around that has challenged the two different approaches to allocating the $$.

Into the details:

I own a Modwright LS100 w/phono / KWA100SE combo. The phono stage is not an after thought and has been very well designed and received. Fantastic system but does it maximize my front end which is DV XV-1s/Rave One/TW 10.5? probably not.

I have never heard any of the high end phono stages which leaves me curious if my front end is being limited by the internal phono or how much more does a separate phono bring to the picture. With limited funds at this point in my life I see the option of moving to an separate phono + integrated? Gain in the phono but lose the separate advantage in theory, but maybe not is there a gain + gain situation?

Only problem with that plan is I won't know how it sounds through an integrated until that comes into the picture. Finding a better phono stage isn't my objective its in context of downgrading from separates.

Sorry but I don't understand the frustration some people are expressing. I fully understand it's a decision that only I can make and there will be trade offs that are subjective. If I auditioned separates with an internal phono I would definitely ask the sales person to bring in an integrated and phono to compare. Seems like a logical comparison and I understand some of integrates are very good now but can some of them perform as good as the separates? Just looking for people have gone down this path to share their experiences.

Only problem with that plan is I won't know how it sounds through an integrated until that comes into the picture. Finding a better phono stage isn't my objective its in context of downgrading from separates.

Oops don't know how that got posted again :-)

Thanks, jmcgrogan2

Curious what integrates you considered and what you settled with? I understand the phono options with my front end, the tt manufacture and us distributor recommend the Tron phono for the tt and xv-1s.

Been doing some reading on the net and the VAC Avatar Super and Rega Osiris sound like outstanding integrated amps and trounced many high end separates. Anyone heard the Acoustic Arts Power I? Any other contenders?