If you could replace one link...

If you only run digital (i.e. from your DAC to your preamp), than upgrade that one, as it is closer to your source.

If you run both analog and digital, I recommend upgrading the run between your preamp and amps, as that will be used by both sources.

My two cents worth.

Question though: It appears that you run monoblocks, right? If so, won't the interconnect between the DAC and the preamp be shorter than the one between the preamp and amps? (In my system the CDP to preamp length is about 1 meter, whereas the preamp to amps length is about 4 meters.) This would greatly affect the cost between them. (Or did you win a contest for a free interconnect of your choice? If so, lucky guy!)

this subject has been beated to death, most will tell you the DAC to pre is where to put the good cable but try it both ways because that may not be true in your system.

Thanks for the responses Kurt and Phil. SORRY! Didn't know the subject had been beaten to death. I remembered something about this, but couldn't come up with the right search terms. Anyway, your two responses are quite helpful, so thanks!

Well, I'd like to whip this pony some too... and feel the source or DAC is the place to start.

I feel it all starts there... personally.

Imporrt however is as was said, is most debateable. I just like a front to back approach all most completely as an effective path.

Getting the most resolution and detail in a nice way from the front end first seems to me as just about, as vital a thing to do too.

... and I like to choose cables for how they work in certain spots too.... so I'm not too enthusiastic about having all the same brand and type wires throughout.

Gotta start somewhere... why not at the front end?