How much does power amplifier really matter comparing to other hi-fi components?


What is the best ratio (out of a total of 100%) in terms of money to put in a high-end hi-fi set containing:
1. CD player/DAC, 2. Pre-amp, 3. Power-amp, 4. speakers.
(25% will be assigned to each if the 4 parts are equal).
Can we take this as a reference to distribute the budget when buying power-amp?

Looking forward to learning experiences and technical information from audiophiles including hi-fi dealers.
cclee2022
25% each is about right. Except you left out wire. Your 25% amp budget is for preamp and amp. I'd go integrated if I were you. Your 25% wire budget has to cover all power cords, interconnects, and speaker cables. Unless you want a really good system and then it should be 20% each, and you add 20% for vibration control and room treatment. Now you're talking!

Depends on the loudspeaker. If you have something really efficient, a nice pair of Quicksilver monos will do the job. But if you have Magnepan 20s, the sky is the limit.