In regard to your 4th item, I think Boeing has broken that mold. The B787 uses simpler direct geared variable frequency AC alternators in a variable frequency AC to DC, then inverted back to whatever fixed AC frequency is desired for the AC buses.
The last step in this sequence could be either a separate LRU feeding a distribution bus, OR a dedicated module within the end item. (A solid-state inverter driving the gyro in a standby horizon, for example)
I'm not aware which (or both?) the 787 employs.