Top 10 Snafus to avoid when building a good rig

the problem with an opinion is that it is probably true and probably false. it is an expression of uncertainty.

...is that your final answer...?

Opinions are cool, it was the "wayyyyyy too much time" aspect.
Just my opinion.

The tail does not wag the dog. When people do speakers first, that is exactly what they are assuming.

The dog, in this case, is where the signal begins; be it cartridge or CD. This is followed by pre and amp, and those are items that should be as high a quality as you can muster. High quality speakers are more expensive than most of us can afford in the beginning; however, if you have good electronics and source, you will hear more music than with the best speakers and middle of the road electronics. Use what's left to buy as good of speakers as you can get, and plan on high quality speakers later on down the road. Remember, you can always use speakers elsewhere in the house, or sell your initial speakers.

Never buy any component that has a NAME rather than a model number.

ACME 'ST-498' is ok
AMCE 'Black Widow' run don't walk, and fast.

Never buy a piece of audio equipment from ACME!