How much does power amplifier really matter comparing to other hi-fi components?


What is the best ratio (out of a total of 100%) in terms of money to put in a high-end hi-fi set containing:
1. CD player/DAC, 2. Pre-amp, 3. Power-amp, 4. speakers.
(25% will be assigned to each if the 4 parts are equal).
Can we take this as a reference to distribute the budget when buying power-amp?

Looking forward to learning experiences and technical information from audiophiles including hi-fi dealers.
cclee2022

Showing 1 response by bishop148

Spend most on speakers, speakers make the greatest difference IMO. Amps have ruler flat responses and almost immeasurably low distortion. 

 If your power amp has volume controls, try as an experiment by-passing your pre-amp. Plugging in for example your CD output into your power amp, with your power amp turned down - of course). See what difference your pre-amp makes.