The improvement brought about by separate power supplies and higher quality parts overcome the disadvantage of longer signal path, especially when discussing an all out attempt.
So far there are no "ultimate" integrateds. Many are superb, but most manufacturers go outside the single box concept when moving up the line toward statement designs.
That DOES NOT mean there are not great integrateds. Everyone from Jolida to Gryphon builds them and a world class integrated can beat separates of lesser design and quality.
