Are integrated amps technically better than separates?

My observation: It's simply not possible to fit all high quality parts and discrete components into an integrated. Take for example high quality capacitors which alone take a lot of space. In separates, you'd be able to use all the big caps you want, but in an integrated you'll probably have to settle with electrolytics in a lot of areas. My c-j phono stage does not have a single electrolytic capacitor, not even in the power supply; this design will not fit into an integrated. 

Take for example high quality capacitors which alone take a lot of space.

Right, but you don't need coupling caps if you are designing the pre and amp together. But also, this is very brand specific. Not everyone uses large, boutique caps at all.

Ditching the preamp may, but certainly is not, an assurance of superior sound. Soundstage and tonality may suffer without a preamp.

Please?
I'd like to hear any technical reasons you have for this statement, if the output/input impedance is fine between source and amp (which they usually are these days).
And the source has enough output to drive the amp to full power (which they usually have these days) even too much.

Cheers George

I have always preferred integrateds...just made sense to me. 
But my last two systems have been separates and no way I’m going back. 
Since we’re all being theoretical:
I think the signal is just too small and delicate coming into the preamp section. Any sins committed here are just going to be amplified (pun) downstream. 

My preamp has two very small transformers for dealing with the signal appropriately. The amp has 3 big transformers.

Yes you can shield like crazy, add extra dedicated transformers all in the same box. But just like separate phono preamps...and monoblocks there are so many ways you can do better when you can isolate some functions. 

I’m sure there are some integrateds that trounce some separates. Just like there are some stereo amps that outperform some monoblocks...but ‘that’s probably not the norm’ all thing being apples to apples.

...theoretically speaking.

But also, this is very brand specific. Not everyone uses large, boutique caps at all. 

I agree. However, I am of the impression that large, boutique caps are there for better sound quality.