Shhhh! I'm Listening to Reason! wrote:

Rate each component in the audio chain by percentage of importance in
the overall sound or enjoyment of your system. For the sake of
argument, assume a well-recorded source (CD, LP, etc.) with no physical
problems.

Most important: room interaction with the speaker.

Second: speaker.

No importance: speaker cables, interconnects, power amplifier(s),
preamplifier, CD/DVD player if well designed.

No importance: power cords, power conditioner, equipment stand.

Important: speaker stands for small speakers.

_Maybe_ 1%: tweaks. But please no green ink, cable risers, air
bladders,
etc.

I have assumed that the equipment is not ugly and at least looks good
and that one knows how to choose a component. I have not given many
percentages, because it is difficult to do so.

--124