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The most important piece in a stereo system???

I was wondering what people think is the single most important part of a stereo system? It can be the amp, speakers, CD payer, preamp, speaker wire, cables, tweeks, whatever you name it. I just want honest opinions. What would you spend the most money on? I think most of you will either say amp or speakers. I know having all good stuff will make your system sound better, but I just want to know the single most important part. Myself I think the speakers are the most important. I look forward to reading what you think. thanks in advance.
souljasmooth
lakefrontroad
302 posts
 
Thought provoking question. Currently all components are of equal value; literally. Amp, pre-amp, cd unit, speaker and wires all cost +/- 15% of each other. I'm currently spending an equal amount on rebuilding and improving the listening room. It took me a long time to see that as a component.

At first, I placed greatest value on the amp, then the front end, now I'm clear it's the speakers. Great speakers will set me free. But, only with the other equipment to support it.

Bill E.
siddh
342 posts
 
A system by definition, requires careful and often numerous component change-outs to offer the best of the individual parts. That being said, I find the speaker the most visible of flaws. Maybe, that's due to it's revealings of up-stream anomolies or component mis-match, but speaker substitution often brings an entirely new presentation to the system. Then again, without an excellent front-end, following components falter.

But the most critical piece in a stereo system has to be the music.
ramstl
342 posts
 
Your room. Nothing else compares. If you have a bad acoustics or your room is poorly set up, then it doesn't matter what type of equipment you put in it.
brulee
564 posts
 
Hi Souljasmooth, It's all important. I would start with PCs, Isolation products, house wiring, acceptible power conditioning, and room treatment. This will help bring out the best your components have to offer. Best of luck.
bomarc
501 posts
 
Speakers. Room. Software. Not necessarily in that order. Everything else pales by comparison.
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