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

A very interesting thread with no right or wrong answers IMHO.  For me, the first component you want to get right is the speakers.  Take your time and don't just buy what the local dealer tries to sell you.  Then you match the amp / pre-amp or integrated.  Depending on your budget, I would go integrated and then you can add a music server to the equation.  So my vote is 35% speakers, 45% Dac and Music Server, and 20% amps.  I just believe it is easy to change out amps so if you don't like them try something else. DAC's / Music Servers had a major major impact on my system.  

P.S. Cables, Power cords, Power Condtioners, fuses, isolation pods and room acoustics all play into the equation.  However, that can be done later.

🤣 

I think many, many really good speakers are short changed by the electronics they are paired with.   Then they are sold in search of the perfect speaker.  Spend money on really good electronics and get off the buy / sell speaker merry go round 

I’m years late to this discussion but I have good gear and somebody in 2024 might be reading this. 
 

Without question and without an ounce of trolling, your power amp and cables are the most important components of your system. 50% amp, 25% cabling, 20% electronics, 5% speakers.