Why the facination with integrated amps?


I don’t get it. Is it the manufacturers spotting a trend with the tail wagging the dog or does a significant market segment truly prefer the idea of an integrated?
Pros;
Less space
One less set of IC’s
In theory-one less chassis/case to pay for
Shorter signal paths possible
Can combine transformer/cap function
Cons;
Power supply interference/spuriae
Reduced Flexibility-can’t switch amp or preamp as easily or go to monoblocs
Less resonance control
Long history of lesser performance per measurements and long-term subjective listening
Less resale value if it turns out to be a fad
Less liklihood of an extremely high performing active preamp

I freely admit I am a skeptic. The industry-like so many others-looks for new market niches to move product. 
FWIW, the only integrateds I myself would care to audition would be from Esoteric and Luxman who have a long history of designing no-compromise (low-compromise) high-end integrateds. 

128x128fsonicsmith

Showing 1 response by audioman58

Integrated amps in the $$ upper end are at least as good if not better then seperates of even more money. My brothers 
Gryphon Diablo is a Perfect example of sheer excellence across the board , and with theoptional digital board really excellent 
and is a Best Buy ,for under $20k will go toe to to with Any amp,preamp digital at $30k  I heard many systems and owned a audio store in the UK for years . System synergy is key ,with 
great parts quality equal toor better the best modded equipment .
2 less power cords, and 2 less interconnects ,each seperate wire takes a pinch away  from the purest signal path. Myself bought 
a Gato 400-S with digital as well as custom analog build technologies from Denmark .i rewired it with VH audios best 
6-9s pure solid core Litz Teflon Wire. And top fuses for $6500
sounds  far more refined ,   There are very good  integrated amps but you need to do a lot of research and at least $5k and up if you truly want very good quality parts .  Everything is built to a certain 
cost parameter on average 25% goes into the cost that is why a $3k integrated has $750 in money’s spent including the case .
the latest  Gryphon Diablo was justbuilt with the best parts and Engineering - Period . By far one of the best integrated I  have heard , reviewers also agree .