I can remember connecting a set of 1600.00 dollar mini-monitors to a pricey amp/pre/phono...equal in value to a VERY nice car of the time.
It was in a 12X14 bedroom, with carpeting stapled to the walls, (hole cut for one of the windows) padlock on the door...and a real live milk crate/bailing wire and plywood rack. I slept in a custom built loft, which had the couch underneath it.
In the living room, there was always a keg tap ready for action and the common area frequently smelled of beer and !sweet! smoke was known to waft through the air frequently.
Funny, rent was 160.00 per month including utilities and other than having to sleep with earplugs, once the 5 other roommates knew you would literally shoot them if they let anyone break into your room...it was pretty good.
I have such fond memories of that crummy room.
I could take off and follow a band in my van anytime I wanted to.