Importance of Amplifier versus Preamp?

Preamps tend to screw up a system's sound more so than amps (unless you have a really cheap non-hifi amplifier).

You simply can not build a great sounding system without a really nice preamp.

If you are building a system from scratch and only have so much money to spend, I would recommend spending the money on the preamp and make a good selection for an inexpensive yet good, sound amplifier & small speakers. You'll be much more satisfied with the results.

Or, just buy a nice Integrated amp and your problem is solved : )

Yup. if I was starting over from scratch and had 5K to spend
my 1st purchase would be the best 3K integrated I could find.

Schubert, I have to agree with your general recommendation of an integrated solution. I started out with a Nakamichi Amplifier One which I loved. I owned that amp for 18 years before buying a Class Cap-2100 which was also fun. I now own a Vitus SIA-025 which is the best integrated amp i've owned & competes with high end seperates. I like the fact I was able to put the savings from 2 less high end cables & a set of iso feet into the rest of my system.

Audiophiles love to make things complicated.

Integrated gear does the opposite and the technology has improved immensely over the years.

Don't forget the DAC these days when integrating. if you are old fashioned you might even want a phono front end integrated in still as well.

Melbguyl, congratulations on your Vitus integrated amp purchase. I looked it up and it is a beauty along with excellent reviews. At a price tag of a mear $28,000, it should qualify as one of the best, if price dictates performance. Is it designed with a volume control on a power amp or is the preamp section active?

It may appear that John's earlier integrated amp recommendation as a resolution to the OP's situation, does have its merits. In fact I have recently gone with an integrated amp to simplify my system and although it doesn't cost nearly as much as the Vitus integrated, I like the way it sounds! Mine is the dual mono Onix (made in England) rated at 120 watts per channel, plenty of power for my current needs. No I have not sold off the separates but they have been gently stored in the closet for now.