To my surprise using a high quality integrated vs my reference separates was actually better. Yes we can say the separates are at fault but they are not. Great components in their own right but just not better.
I always thought and then experienced better sound with separates. Bigger Soundstage, Imaging, dynamics and bass more pronounced.
For the difference in money the gap has narrowed to a point that the improvement is not worth the money to most. Yes separates still has an advantage overall but slight. Dual mono all the way through is another story. IMHO the best way to fly just much more expensive.
How do you fly ??
charles