I prefer Integrated amplifiers simply because you can get a better cost/performance ratio. You not only cut the cost of interconnects, but it also costs the manuf. less money to build the unit material wise. I beleive a $3000 integrated will outperform a $1500 amp and $1500 pre-amp.
If you would like an example I purchased a Simaudio Moon I-5 which cost me around $3000 canadian. The best seperates I heard around $3000 were Parasound Halo P3/A23. The A23 on paper has more power but the I-5 still outperformed the A23. On top of that the I-5 has better quality components (WBT compared to cheap plastic) and is built in Canada.
If you would like an example I purchased a Simaudio Moon I-5 which cost me around $3000 canadian. The best seperates I heard around $3000 were Parasound Halo P3/A23. The A23 on paper has more power but the I-5 still outperformed the A23. On top of that the I-5 has better quality components (WBT compared to cheap plastic) and is built in Canada.