What is the chain of importance in analog system ?

"maybe you guys can suggest some good combos"

That's the way to do it!

As has been stated above, everything is important.

It then, IMO, becomes a question of value for money. As a result of that, it becomes a question of where you focus your money.

Once again, IMO of course, it then goes this way.

Good turntables are not cheap (even used). Good phono stages are not cheap, particularly for LOMC (even used).

Good tonearms can be had at a more reasonable cost (new or used).

Good cartridges can be had at a more reasonable cost (new-I wouldn't consider buying a used cartridge personally, but to each his own, although I do think a "tweaked" cartridge is the way to go).

Therefore, IMO once again, strictly on a cost basis, the following formula should apply:

Tied for first (within reason): Turntable and Phono Stage
Second: Tonearm
Third: Cartridge

I find that vinyl is the most important part of the analog chain....without it, the other parts are meaningless, IMHO.

Cheers,
John

I think the phono stage is the most important because without it you can't play a record(sarcasim).This is like saying the record is the most important. Yes, the vinyl is the reason for the playback system but isn't that stating the obvious? And puting a playback system together is alot like puting a ball team together like, let's say the Yankees. Just because you have the highest payroll or the best player at a position doesn't mean you'll have the best performing team (maybe this analogy isn't quite right considering NY's success this year). Jaybo is right, your expectations should be realistic. The turntable is responsible for bass extension, the rhythm and pace, and what makes analog sound better than digital. It affects the ultimate S/N ratio either adding noise or getting out of the way and letting the arm/cart do its thing. Belt drive is the way to go. Try reading some of the old Linn Lit. It makes sense.
http://www.linn.co.uk/music_systems_sondek_LP12

I personally don't feel any part of the chain is more important than the other. Imagine our audio chain being a bunch of filters all lined up in a row. Depending on the filter positioning will determine what will get through. The LP is the liquid. If you have a filter different than the others at any point of the chain then you will be hearing the filter. This of course includes speakers. IMO speakers can be more important than anything. If you source (in this case analogue front end) is better than your speakers can resolve, it truly won't matter. And getting to Kr4s point of room, I would add room/speaker as a single unit. I would match a system that has complimentary equipment based on what you have heard. That is unless you plan on upgrading in the future, then match a system at a higher level, and buy th part you can afford and then upgrade other areas as it permits. But getting a great phono stage without a well matched cartridge only gives you a great phono stage. The cartridge will still only be as good as the arm / turntable etc. So make a decision to be close to equal. Now in terms of money, a lot will depend on the type of cartridge or sound you prefer that will determine appropriate matching equipment.