the quest for the best--within limits

"Wouldn't you consider asking the question here part of the research process?"

It certainly doesn't cost anything to post a thread but the problem is a lot of people get tired of repeating the same information over and over again repeatedly so one would be well advised to research existing threads as as well.

One of the easiest ways of narrowing down equipment choice is to use the Virtual Systems.
For example if you have tonearm x, and want to know which cartridge would be best, then search on virtual systems to find out what other owners of tonearm x are using. Check the rest of their system to find out if they have similar taste to you.
Make a shortlist and check reviews on the web.
I think this methodology will give you a better, clearer picture and more likely to make the best choice than hundreds of recommendations without any explanation.

The answers would be futile at best. Even if one searched
the archives or asked another "which is best"
question, the answers are as varied as the number of
different systems.

I think people re-ask old questions because it is easier to get personal value out of answers if it is part of a dialogue. I can re-ask an old question, get the same old answers, but then respond with follow-up questions specific to my situation. It's also possible that re-asking a question is helpful in order to get a more recent perspective... maybe technology, gear, research, or other elements have changed.

Some are looking for confirmation (validation) for a component they've already identified as a potential purchase.