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

So now your saying I should make it now 20% for my cables....good bye.

@limomangus - If you're not willing to give 120% or more then you're not trying :-)

After reading through what others have posted, I wanted to follow up with the numbers from my system.  I've never really looked at them from a % perspective.

1. Source (20%)
    Bluesound Node 2i
    Maverick Audio TubeMagic D2 DAC
    Sparkos Labs upgraded discrete op amps for DAC - high value
    Western Electric Vintage tube for DAC
    Pioneer Elite PD-D6-J SACD player

2. & 3. Amplification (39%)
    Pathos Classic One MkIII
    Mullard Vintage tubes for amplifier - high value

4. Speakers (38%)
    Focal Chorus 836v

5. Cables and Power (3%)
    Blue Jeans 10 AWG speaker cables
    Blue Jeans Coaxial Digital
    Blue Jeans Stereo Audio (3x)
    APC H10

Total $8,000

I wasn't too worried about the amp as long as it was quality built and powerful...but the Benchmark AHB2 changed the game for me. It made a very noticeable difference in my music.

The SOURCE (LP or Digital) is the most important thing and its integrity is responsible for more than 50% of the sound quality.

Oh, except for the quality of the AMPLIFICATION (preamp+amp) which is responsible more than 50% of the sound quality.

Oh, except that the SPEAKERS have the greatest variability, and are responsible for more than 50% of the sound quality.

Oh, and don't forget the ROOM. It will color everything, and is responsible for more than 50% of the sound you hear.  

There you go...... It's all very logical.