Mikey I don't think anyone should say how much you spend or the percentage you want to place where. Personally I think better speakers are the primary place to put this money. I realise this goes against what UHF magazine reviewers think...and I like the magazine...but I disagree whole heartedly. The reason is simple. Highest diminishing returns in those areas.

Just because an Amp is expensive and gets good reviews does not mean YOU will like it better than something 1/3 the price. Consider that I mentioned the Sugden A21a - it's not that expensive for a high end amp...and it is a high end amp. It would probably go for around $1700.00US. The money dodn't go into advertising and frills. Add those issues in and that amp could very well be $3700.00 and be looked at more seriously by many audiophiles...and quite frankly I will put it up against ANY 4kUS amplification of any kind. I'm not saying it would woin but it won't be embarrassed - it would be damn close with some and beat many. There's a reason it's been around so long.

Heck I bought the Sugden A48b against a MF A300 integrated. Technically the MF was more powerful and had that grip on everything to make everything sound really tight and crisp...it was also less involving and musical - analytics versus emotions is tough to recommend however.

Note: I'm not steering you to the Sugden I'm just using myself as an example. MF is well built has a good reputation look beautiful, well reviewed etc etc.

Are you from BC, Canada? So am I. Where are you looking? I may be able to at least suggest a competitor to try out with the MF that may be superior or at least as good for less money.