What is the most important component in your system.


To me it is my ARC Ref 6 preamp. I have used a few other preamps, ML38s , ARC Ref 5se,  with my current system and none has taking me closer to music then my ARC Ref 6 preamp. Years ago I always thought it was my B&W 800 Matrix speakers and then my Krell FBB amp. But found out that to get the best sound from my 800s it is a preamp..Years ago i never knew how important a good preamp was in reproducing music. And sure everything adds up ,like interconnects , power cables , speaker cables, platforms and all those tweaks that we use and try. Now i not saying that i was never happy with my 800s and Krell or even my ML 38s. But adding my current preamp really makes my other components bring out their best. 
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xtattooedtrackman

Absolutely! williewonka


I am one of your kind as well. I thought that you looked familiar.

Happy Listening!

Source components. QUALITY 101 trouble shooting starts at the source. If its not too notch then it cannot be corrected or manipulated downstream. You can't make a signal better. (With the exception of tube buffers) but thats another subject. Everything is important. Here is 2 scenarios. You have some 10k speakers with a $300 Turntable. Or a 10k turntable with a $300 pair of speakers. Which system do you think will sound better everything else being the same. I think the source is my favorite component 
I have a newer pair of large OHM Walsh speakers with 12" main driver I am digging as I type.  They would be very hard to replace so those I guess.
I have to say the speakers because to me they have the sound starts your journey toward the sound you like. But Liz has a great point not to be overlooked. Total system synergy from cables to source to pre/amp/integrated.