Where do I start-amp or speakers ?


While in the midst of downsizing I sold all my gear: Krell monos, Thiel CS6’s, Thiel 2.4’s, EAD Powermaster 2000, Thiel MCS1, etc.
I am now left with a headphone system based on the entry level Schitt headphone amp, Freya preamp,& a very nice Vinyl NIrvana Thorens 125 turntable,
So how’s that working out for you, you ask? Not so well. I need speakers & amp!
 I went from 2900 sq ft. To 1600 sq ft; a 25x24 room to an 18 x 16 room (high 20-24 ft cathedral ceiling, though, at least.)
I’m now on the way to build a new system , one component at a time; Ceiling is 4K per unit. Every time I see a nice amp, then I see a fine pair of speakers. Back and forth. Do I start with an amp or with speakers? Input, input........
Ag insider logo xs@2xmichaeljbrown
Absolutely, it is all about the simple mathematics of relative error. There is litle point in worrying about 0.001% difference in distortion in the electronics if the speakers have 1% or more. The same is true or frequency response where electronics are usually perfect wthin 0.2 dB, but speakers may easily deviate from flat in even the mid frequencies by a few dB. It is simple high school maths. And for those who don't like science: you can hear it.
well, I already voted once: speakers first.

But then I reconsidered this thread and the OP original question.
Most ppl are responding, e.g, "I WOULD do this first .... " versus "I DID this first ...." . 

IOWs: theory vs reality. I'm not in the market for amps or speakers. I have 4 pair of speakers and 4 amps, 2 preamps that I am comparing to each other with different electronics: trying all permutations to compare. I enjoy this process, it is "fun" to me, tho may not be to others. 

My point is that if I were in the position of choosing speaker vs amp first, I wouldn't do either per se. I would do what I have already done: collect a few amps and speakers to compare rather than put all my eggs in one basket and buy "speakers first, then amp" or "amp first, then speakers". This method works for me. 

thinking back, I came to my present position by compiling my top 5-10 speakers I am interested in, irrespective of amp. Then make a list of 5-10 amps, irrespective of speakers. Then cross-match electronics, tube-vs SS vs class D, impedance, etc with the electronic/power requirements of the speaker. that will give a short list of amp-speaker pairings that would theoretically work together.

Then review the 'short list" for realistic considerations: the pairings may look good on paper, may seem good, but may not fly in reality. Like me, you might think to yourself, " I really think these speakers are the ones, but I'm not sure if amp A/B/C will produce the best sound ... also depending on the Preamp.

I'm just sharing how I have, over the last10 years, learned to mix and match gear, and avoid the pitfalls of "there is only one combo out there for me and my room". there are oodles of combos that will sound good in your room, but only A vs B vs C, etc comparisons will reveal the best sound your ear.

What a luxury to start with a clean slate... and a respectable budget.

Let's face it: most people, most of the time, have some "heirloom" components that they bought or were gifted, and they start out on the upgrade path, one or two items at a time.  So this thread, and the one on "how do you identify the weakest component in your system" are actually intertwined.

Speakers. Buy the highest efficiency most dynamic speakers you can. Leaves you great flexibility choosing an amp - and will likely renew your interest in music!  Many less efficient speakers have wonderful specs- but they’re not necessarily musical. Music is dynamic. Jbl rocks. No harm in trying a few pairs.