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 2 responses by lloydc

You didn’t specify your budget!  I can’t believe all these people made recommendations without that info.  It matters because up to a certain level, you’d be better off with an integrated vs. separate power and pre.  An integrated will compromise on the preamp section, but save $ on an interconnect.

+1 unsound

politically incorrect it may be, but “WAF” is a factor, maybe even #2.  some of us have little control over the room, which affects everything. 

most of us follow an evolutionary path - trial and error. I would recommend prioritizing a keeper amp or speakers and build from there.  

the “max out the source” hypothesis was proposed by Linn to sell turntables. Imho, it’s backwards.