What is most important part of a system?

I have been saying the source for many years.  I get the other posts also but if you are using a cheap $19 Walmart CDP and you think that will get you the best sound out of your $100K amps, $100K Preamp, $100K Speakers, Your $100K dedicated lines and line conditioners, Room treatments, etc. then who am I to argue?

Happy Listening.

One thing for sure.I sold audio for years. By far the most distortion is your loudspeakers. Even 1-2% is far more than any other piece of equipmrnt.That is where probably more money should be spent to get the highest quality.  Your sourse for sure is the most critical for precision 
Of the event.  Everything starts from the sourse and detail once lost 
Cannot be made up else where that is why  you should get the best turntable 
Including Arm  and cartridge and sound Different this includes Digital .Makes sure it's sonic signature is a good fit before pulling the trigger.

I think I'll buy one of those T-shirts that says:

IT'S THE TRANSDUCER, STUPID!

What is most important part of a system?

I remember reading someone saying that the most important part of a system was the source. I thought "Wrong! Speakers are the most important".

Now, I have changed my mind. Source is the most important part.

You are correct, it all starts with the source, get that right 1st (digital or analogue) and your 1/3 the way there. If not right, it’s a never ending battle to get the truth, and everything after it becomes just a band-aid fix.

Ivor Tifenbrun (Linn Sondek)

Cheers George