Blind testing has led me to believe that the amp is a little more important. Each component becomes increasingly easier to identify blind the closer you get to actually making audible sound. Source<Pre<Amp<Speakers. I’m assuming a digital source, I’m not sure where I’d place things like turntables/arms/needles etc. I don’t have much experience w/ vinyl. The room is also very important but it’s not really a component unless you have a dedicated treated room. I’ve got a mullet system and have tried many different dacs, streamers, preamps, and amps over the years to make improvements. I kinda gave up on separates though and found I prefer the esthetic of an integrated amp and small streamer/dac like the Wiim Pro. Personally I have found that as I go upscale in gear, it becomes more about form then function because everything you try sounds great after a certain point.
Amp vs Preamp which is more important?
I am considering changing my amp/preamp combination and as I think about budget, I am wondering if one of these components should get more focus. My other question is if these components, even separates can never be considered in isolation but are always part of a pair working together.
I thought there must be a thread on this, but I couldn't find it. Feel free to respond with it here and I will shut this thread down.
Thanks!