Some of the IPAd I've been trying lately, and liking, are not much more bitter than Stone, but they have gobs of hop flavor and aroma.
That's the sweet spot for me.
+1 - Obviously, bitterness is a must for IPA's, but my preference is for ones that focus on hop flavor and aroma primarily with just enough of a crisp snap to dry out the finish and get you ready for the next sip.