AV receiver vs integrated amp — what is the difference?

An AVR is a home-theater hub: 5+ amplifier channels, HDMI switching, surround decoding, and auto room-correction. An integrated amp is two better channels in the same budget, with a simpler signal path — the stereo-first choice. Deciding rule: if a TV and surround speakers are in the plan, AVR; if music in two channels is the mission, integrated (add a streamer if you need one box fewer). Doing both honestly usually means an AVR with a good front pair and bass management set carefully.