Spend more money on the amp or the pre-amp?

I think there are some super value low cost amps, like Odyssey and Job 225, not sure about preamps

Outlaw Audio RR2160 Stereo Receiver $799

Used PrimaLuna integrated. :)

Best,

E

With $800, Maybe 50-50 but I would prefer to spend more on the preamp. At this budget, you'll have to consider an 80's classic amp and there are several in the $3-400 range like PS Audio or B&K, then I would match it with a nice Dyna PAS 3, they are extremely musical.

If it were me, I'd jump right on that PS Audio 2C+ and the Dyna PAS3 that are now on A'gon.  If Audiomart, I'd look at the Musical Design, Apt Holman or PS Audio 100 Delta and the Blair Chapman tube preamp or the other custom tube preamp - I think any of these would smoke an integrated....

With $400, definitely Integrated is the way to go.  On Audiomart there is a 300B SET int amp for $450 that would smoke everything away.  In fact, I'd probably take that over the $800 separates

The preamp come first, and it must be good, till the level you want for the all system (and more, if possible).  Then the amp, with the power y speakers need. That's my point of view and what I made on my system.