Sorry I'm not much of one for percentages, but I'll give you my general opinion. The source is primary[it's first after all]. Pre/power combo is important, but not as important as the speakers. You need good cabling but no need to spend vast amounts, as most designs are limited by conductor geometry. The new Analysis Plus speaker cables out perform many more expensive types due to their unique hollow oval geometry. As for others, it depends on the level of your system. Power conditioners and assorted tweeks can make real contributions to a revealling system, but you need the basics right first. Good stands should not be considered optional- good acoustic isolation is essential to hear what your components are capable of.
Proportional Allocation to Total System
Dear fellow audiophile/music lover, We all know the fact that the audio system is serial chain and the rule of the game is simple. Minimize the loss and unwelcome addition. I believe your contribution here will help other audiophile/music lover. Could you divide your total system (primary chain only) by following categories and state the percentage of money allocation? 1) Total MSRP of your system 2) Source 3) Pre-amp 4) Power-amp 5) Inter connect 6) Speaker cable 7) Speakers 8) Others. Would you also state which link is most important and why? My Current system: 1) $9200 2) 10.87% 3) 16.3% 4) 16.3% 5) 4.35% 6) 8.7% 7) 32.61% 8) 10.87% My own observations: 1) Equal amount on source and others. 2) Equal amount on amplification and speakers. I think speaker cables are subject to most loss if you don’t allocate sufficient amount. I’ve tested single and double run of Kimber 8TC on ten different systems and always able to hear big difference.