Dumb question......why do you need a preamp?

Mulviling and ghdprentice hit the nail on the head. A good preamp is so important. I don't mind a little coloration but a nice preamp adds body and texture. I've tried a couple times without a pre and the music was analytical and boring. I don't care what anyone says there is nothing like a good preamp in your system.  A former friend of mine argued until he was blue I was wrong.  I kept laughing and said you will not convince me because I know better.  

I wish I could remember who wrote a review on preamps in a system but they unequivocally stress they are very beneficial.  

My understanding is that source components with variable outputs typically have a higher impedance and lower maximum voltage than would be the case with a good preamp or line stage, so the latter “drive” the amp input stage with more authority, not only relating to the volume level, but dynamics and the ability to generate an expansive sound image…source material permitting.  Very few integrated amps put the same attention to parts and power supply as separate preamps have.  That said, I am in the process of consolidating a system with a separate line stage (C-J PF-R), phono preamp (Phono Box DS-3), and headphone amp (Head Box S2) into a new one that does all 3 in 1…the new Quad 33.

I think it is pretty obvious why an integrated amp, in most cases, is not going to sound as good as separates. I know of several people that drive their tube integrated amps with a separate tube preamp. In my experience the preamp section rarely matches the quality of the amp section or vice versa. The only reasons to go with an integrated would be size, cost or simplicity. 

Some say a separate preamp offers more choices. Some say it introduces more possibility of unwanted noise because of the extra component and cables to connect them. Some say it's mostly a way for dealers to make more money. I fall into the latter two camps. 

Then there's the mostly erroneous belief in "synergy." If you believe in that, an integrated amp reduces that possibility. 

if you have an integrated amp, you don’t “need“ a preamp, but most people would likely say that separates of comparable make or quality to the integrated app will be better.

Some say omitting the preamp and running the dac directly to your power amp is superior and a lot of others who say just the opposite. I’ve tried both in my system and definitely prefer the preamp, I think it adds a density and richness to the sound that is missing otherwise. There are, however, plenty of knowledgeable people who disagree. Like so many matters in this hobby, it’s  a matter of personal preference, not a hard and fast rule