My entire system (with the exception of my speaker stands) is ALL second-hand and/or restored by me. My system has been built by playing the "restore device, sell device, use proceeds to fund higher-level replacement device" game for a long time....
Is a solid path to excellent sound on a budget.....PLUS, I'm keeping vintage devices alive and out of the landfill.
I have worked my ass off for all I have and continue to do so.....If I somehow end up with a system worth $500K, I think I would feel VERY proud of the accomplishment...... :-)