So many variables with audio

Yes but does not pay to be frustrated by that.   It is what it is, just one data point.  You need many to be able to draw reliable conclusions. Good things never come easy.

Sometimes yes, sometimes, no, sometimes maybe, but then maybe not.
Could be, should be, would be, but as always YMMV.

The hyperbole in your question --- "a million different answers" to a question --- distorts the issue. For example, most questions are much simpler than this and get *relatively* few reasonable answers.  It is apparently fun for some to ask "millions" of philosophical (non-audio) questions in the discussion forums, though. 

I think therefore I am.

My rough guide
1. Go listen to as much live music as you can, then
2. Go listen as many systems as you can find
3. Figure out what characteristics you would like in your system
4. Seek out components that delivers those characteristics
5. Tweak to maximize full potential before you rush to sell
6. Build your system to suit you - don't follow audiophile  dogma.
7. Be open minded - test and experiment.
8. Be ruthless and cut the dogs.