" However, one could make a case that a great value is that piece of equipment that delivers the level of performance one seeks, regardless of relative price."
No doubt that's pretty much it.
I think there are differences in how to go about it though. You can start small and then improve by increments until you hit your target. That's how I tend to work.
Or you can start with a big investment with the cost perceived as the insurance policy and go from there as needed. But in this case you will never know what might have been achievable for less. Ones bank account balance ( or perhaps even credit rating though personally I would not borrow money for any luxury item like this) is likely a good determining factor for where one will start.
But to truly find the best value, you have to stat small and make moves only when needed to hit your target.
Of course you also have to know what the target is. To do that, I listen to as much live music as possible and also the best "reference" systems that I am able to. Then at least I know what is or is not possible as well as what sound I like best.
No doubt that's pretty much it.
I think there are differences in how to go about it though. You can start small and then improve by increments until you hit your target. That's how I tend to work.
Or you can start with a big investment with the cost perceived as the insurance policy and go from there as needed. But in this case you will never know what might have been achievable for less. Ones bank account balance ( or perhaps even credit rating though personally I would not borrow money for any luxury item like this) is likely a good determining factor for where one will start.
But to truly find the best value, you have to stat small and make moves only when needed to hit your target.
Of course you also have to know what the target is. To do that, I listen to as much live music as possible and also the best "reference" systems that I am able to. Then at least I know what is or is not possible as well as what sound I like best.