IMO, a rock solid amp is the place to start. I have recently swapped my pre-amp and source and have no desire to change the amp. I am (almost) 😀 content with the system.
Flagship product to build around
While my current system sounds good to me I know it can be better. I do believe that vinyl makes it easier to take the next step in sound reproduction but the hassle involved of cleaning, storing and just the limited play time of an album side removes it from my consideration for this question.
I want to build my system around a flagship product. Where would I start? My listening area is large my musical preference is female vocalists and I prefer lower power SET amps and really efficient speakers.