What is more important source or preamp?

I agree with Hifitime(weakset link).In addition,system synergy can be as important as the individual components--"The whole is greater than the sum of its parts"

Agreed again on- weakest link, and also synergy factor.
Commonly known in the audio community.
But yet hoping to hear more stories reflecting dramatic improvements when injecting new components into the system.
So still searching- which one is more important?
Let's say budget allows one expensive component and one inexpensive-- which would you spend more on???
By the way I am wondering if integrated amps may be a good way for companies to make an incredible piece of equipment that will beat seperates by carefully matching the internal preamp to the amp and sounding better than seperates. I'm sure it has happened but that could be another thread.

source

According to the founder of Linn, no matter what you do with your system, if your cartridge stinks, nothing else matters...

Ivor Tiefenbrun (Linn's chief) says that the TURNTABLE is key, not the cartridge.