Amp vs preamp question

I agree with most of the points above. I have found on an absolute basis the preamp has a larger effect on the overall sound of a system than an amp (this is obviously a generalization).

That said, Mapman's right in that if your amp won't drive your speakers properly the rest really doesn't matter. And since most Thiel speakers are demanding and quite picky when it comes to amps it's probably particularly important in your case to get the amp right first, then find a preamp that synergizes well with your sound preferences and the amp itself. I'd follow that strategy and let the costs fall where they may.

Best of luck.

I have to agree with Mapman here. Especially with Thiel's. Thiel's are more demanding of appropriate, quality amplification than most speakers. BTW, I've been using Thiels for 20 years.

The amp is more important than the preamp, and vice-versa.

Seriously, my experience generally supports Mapman's statement, but within a range of amps that accomplish that optimum combo, the choice of preamp will give a profound, perhaps more significant improvement.

btw - I spent about the same on both in my system.

" the choice of preamp will give a profound, perhaps more significant improvement."

I agree the impact of pre-amp will be profound.

How exactly does one best go about chosing which pre-amp will be best at this point though?

square rooms gives grey sound
rectangular rooms give color sound, to my ears.
= grey vs. color = diferent harmonics.

no matter if the speaker and amp are the best, the room can make them sound ugly.

power also , needs balance, big room needs power.

but, electronically speaking,
speakers, amp & cables are more important than pre-amp.
the best pre can only perform as good as your speakers or amp.
the weak link its your best.