Isn't the premise of this whole thread faulty? That a single component will make a system worth listening to. For example, I often see expensive speakers paired with average components as if the speakers are going to magically make the system worthwhile.
As much as we would love for there to be shortcuts, the reality is that the system must be properly balanced and crappy components anywhere in the chain (including the room) make it such that you might as well light on fire the money paid for good components because they will forever be handicapped by the components not similarly commensurate in quality.
As much as we would love for there to be shortcuts, the reality is that the system must be properly balanced and crappy components anywhere in the chain (including the room) make it such that you might as well light on fire the money paid for good components because they will forever be handicapped by the components not similarly commensurate in quality.