I read plenty of general comments here and elsewhere about how going separates was always better, but I was skeptical as to how much difference it could make. In this case with PL it was very much worth the extra cash.
Funny. The loudest voices on this forum believe you'd have to be a moron to favor separates. I disagree....separates win but you can get "good enough" SQ with an integrated as well, and at a cheaper cost. It's all about your musical priorities and if you desire flexibility down the road..