I think this is an interesting topic and shows how we all value parts of the audio reproduction chain.
Many will chuckle and disagree with my apportionment but I’ll merely say listen, and challenge most anyone dollar for dollar to do better for the end result. I think speakers (well positioned, and room or DSP fixed) matter most by far. I do listen in a semi-nearfield 8ft triangle in a 17 deep by 21 foot wide room that serves as a repository for picture windows with mtn views and art wall to wall everywhere else. Does canvas help? Grin.
Seriously I don’t have money to burn and I spend it where I can hear it the most for the $ which means no $15k dacs for me; I love my BDP-105-tough. I want great quality electronics but diminishing returns sets in fast. The things at the bottom of my list are all of the things the ‘golden-eared’ folks feel they can hear distinctly, (I’d always challenge a blind audition for fun; that’ll piss ‘em off). Still I think some tweaks are grounded in science and I participate. Components and speakers on springs- Thanks!
Room stuff 1.4
Wires 1.6
Phono 3.1
DSP unit 3.5
CD, digital 4.1
Int. amp 6.4 (bought used private)
Subs (3) 9.1
Speakers 70.8 (bought used private)