I agree....there is very little correlation between price and performance and clearly speakers make by far the largest difference, followed by the quality of the recording and then the other electronics.
It's attention, not money, we should budget
I read with some amusement a lot of posts arguing we should spend X amount of money on speakers, or preamps or amps. I want to make a counter argument: We should budget our time and attention, not the money.
In large part because there are always bargains to be made, and MSRP has been (IMHO) a terrible guide to what an "upgrade" is, especially when considered in the context of an existing system.
30% Room
30% Speakers
5% Cables and power
35% Remaining electronics
I will read your replies thoughtfully. :)