Integrateds: Why do they all SUCK?

the original poster must be very pleased to have gotten so many responses to his grasp for attention

+1 loomis

I didn't know mine sucks... I kind of like it.  Sure I would prefer separate, but it's out of reach today.

Sources: MoFi Studio Deck + AT-OC9ML/II + Musical Fidelity LX-LPS. Dedicated audio PC + Holo Cyan DSD.
Pre: Schiit Freya
Amp: Linnenberg Allegros
Speakers: Fritz Carbon VII SE

I want to upgrade the pre, phono stage and speakers. I’m not stuck on the phono, maybe the case can be made I should upgrade the table and arm before worrying about the phono. But I really want to move up my preamp game, the Freya was always just a filler piece.

I highly value soundstage and imaging. I would also like more resolution, and I really, really miss physical dynamic power. I’m trying to get the best speakers I can, but the need to upgrade these other components is fighting against this goal, so I hoped an integrated could help.

That looks like a pretty well balanced system to me. At the risk of having Schiit rained down on my I would say the Freya is indeed the weak link. So why not just upgrade the preamp? What makes you think you need an integrated? That looks like a pretty serious amp, some nice sources and good speakers. You're almost there. I would think keeping most of your current equipment and upgrading the preamp would also be cheaper in the long run then going integrated.  The simple fact you already own the amp means you don't need an amp. Good luck and keep posting like that polite and informative with no insults!