spend more money on pre or power amp ?

There are tons of different approaches selecting an amplifier but at first it should match speakers.
There are many 'philes would say that preamp is the most important component in the system as the general rule of thumb but far far far it is not. I'd figure that in low powered system yes, preamp plays the most important role among all the components but in the high-gain high-power approach the amp is the king even over the speakers.
You should also realize that there are high-sencitivity amps and so as speakers and figure out your "nirvanic equilibrium" in that sence got it?

My money goes to the front end.

No quwstion it would be the amp.You can get a Passive preamp that would not add coloration at minimal cost.

Then again you might get away with finding an adequate amp for less than you might think and get a great Preamp which is tailored to your liking as far as the number of Inputs\Outputs and if you need a Phonoamp and if it needs to be remote controlled.

Remember that the more circuitry the more coloration of the sound will be added that is why I prefer the Passive route and adding all other siurces after that.Remote circuitry will add coloration also.

LAMM Research makes the best amps I think and their cost reflects that.The designer does not like remotes because of the reasons mentioned.

Placette makes great Passives with remotes and FT Audio makes a cost effective Preamp which they shall add an outboard remote in the future most likely.

JMO

A low cost USED tube pre-amp, an older Cary, or CJ or AR would work wonders for the harshness, retain the better points of SS and mostly eliminate the harshness.

Besides if you don't like it sell it and you won't lose but a little pocket change.

Audiogon, the source for those that just can't make up their mind. It's why I'm here.

jeff

Willems - I have to say you should find the Audiogon thread "Preamp Deal of the Century" and read it. That thread will point you to a fantastic preamp which may transform your system. The base model is the Syrah and it sells for 2.5K new. Older versions of the Syrah had a few growing pains as it evolved in regard to hum and quality control but the latest batch of Suprateks seem to be rock solid.

For 2.5K ---> 5K, you will not find a better sounding preamp.

A passive preamp is not going to help you with harshness.

With the right tubes & the Syrah, your system will sound less harsh, liquid, dynamic and much more natural. The Surpatek is not a warm sounding tube preamp so it will not impart warmth in exchange for the harshness.

Supratek's tend to sound good regardless of amp but if you must buy an amp too, then take the remaining $$ and get yourself a pair of LAMM M1.1