Is integrated the future for 2 channel audiophiles?

I bought my first integrated amp in about 1984, an HK PM645vxi. It still sells for about what I paid for it (or more) on Ebay, and I still use mine for a bedroom system.  

I've never had a separate preamp or power amp. However, lately I do have separate components to support digital network streaming. These "separates" can include not only hardware (a streamer, computer/server, router, etc.) but also software (Roon, Audirvana, HQPlayer). HQPlayer allows myriad tweaks to the process without ever having to swap out hardware (unless you feel a need to change out a supporting NAA).

I love the concept of the Field Programmable Gate Array as an alternative to being locked into an unchanging, hard-wired DAC processor (like the ESS Sabre Chip in my Peachtree Nova).  I wish an FPGA were available in an integrated amp, but AFAIK, it is only available in separate components such as the PS Audio DirectStream DACs. Maybe the day is coming (if not already here) when "integrated" encompasses software/firmware components that more-or-less "future proof" the hardware ... up to a point.  Otherwise, rapidly-changing technologies tend to have the opposite effect, by driving continuous demand for the latest/greatest innovations, in contrast to my Harmon Kardon vintage 1984 amp that just keeps running and running.

Been there done that many times over the last 40+ years. I’ve always went back to separates. Integrated amps have been getting better but you also have many limitations with them. Lately for me it’s been the power. I was happy with my Hegel H300 until I purchased larger Usher speakers. Went separates. Went with a new McIntosh preamp with a built in 2 phono preamps and dac. Just sold my Hanss T-60 turntable last week and now selling all my vinyl. Never used the McIntosh dac because I have the superior PS Audio DS dac. In the coming weeks, I’ll be looking to see if I can get rid of the McIntosh preamp and run the amp straight from the dac. So yes, there are ways to consolidate but take different routes to do this. I do use a few integrated amps in other parts of the house.

I enjoy the NAD C-388 integrated with BluOS2i MDC module. It's the best all-in-one I could find with A-B speaker switching to drive 2-ohm loads. Not as fully developed user interface nor as easy to use as Denon/Marantz AVRs (on-screen menus). It checked all the boxes for $1,500 (with MDC) - which I think is a bargain considering some people would spend more than that on the interconnects required for seperates.

In regard to neatness, downsizing and fitting the listening/living room yes I see integrated amps becoming popular. Also if the integrated amp has good connections to all types of sources, a good Dac and the power to drive most speakers that would increase the appeal to certain music lovers. In regard to downsizing in certain quarters active speakers play a role so the preamp with any other inclusive capabilities comes to the fore and power amps, integrated amps and extra cable connections vanish (as the power amps are contained directly in the active speakers).

if the topic remains about INTs under 3K or a mite higher, i’ve always opted for HT receivers sheerly for versatility with connectivity and processing digital info.

there is becoming a strong argument for uber expensive INTS though.

there are plenty of debates on INTs vs one another too.

the idea separates out run INTs is fast becoming invalid given some of these new ‘Statement’’ INTs, ranging from 30K to more than 140K!! ala Vitas new 030, and the VAC statement INT, to name a couple.

look into eastern Europe and there are more interesting INTs coming onto the market.

the main theme for the invested audio nut is still gonna be the baking of the ‘cake’ using the mix and match lets see what will happen with this preamp and that amp, and or when differing toopologies are mated, tube pre SS amp, etc.

that is the mystique or curiosity factor which seems to keep pushing this AN along. past EXP as well says until you get well into the multiple Thousands of bucks separates do seem to rule given the mix and match approach.

but then that mixing and matching adventure can be quite taxing, after a while, depending on how pedantic aor how deep his or her pockets  devotee may be.

the main interest for me in a rig whose heart is an INT could be as:
a starter system

a secondary outfit.

an I’m thru messing around I’ll just go all in and nab one of these 25K to 50K retail INTs and kick back!

albeit, there is a strong attraction to see how things work together when designs are completely different… or all the same.

if this is a life long hobby, it should be all about the journey, not the destination, shouldn’t it?

I suppose destination gear is for those who have at some point decided to quit this past time.