Question: What are some of your best pieces of advise to someone new to the hobby?

If possible find a good knowledgeable dealer to work with and who offers you an upgrade path. Looking back at my experiences I  probably would have had better sound quicker and for less working with my current dealer.

Another thing is realize what you don't know, again looking back I was buying stuff used 15-20 years ago that I had no business owning. Esoteric gear, tubed gear dip your toes gently into that realm until you get some real experience under your belt.

Be true only to your own ears.  Buy for passion, not resale value and not to prove others right.  Buy what makes you enjoy the music the most in your own home at your own volume and pace.

However you go about it ( listening to as much gear / systems as possible, with your favorite music, is the best way, ime ), you will need to determine " what are your listening preferences ", those qualities and characteristics in recorded music, you enjoy the most. Eric_squires, as he states " be true to your own ears ", is great advice. Understand, we all are different and unique in what we like. This, is your journey. Enjoy, and, my best. MrD.

Don’t be put off by sticker shock. Get something that gets you going, then start researching. I think everyone can attest after a long and thorough search, adding a new piece of gear into the system, is one of the great joys in life. 

Auditio, audition…audition. Listen to live acoustic music. Read Harley’s book. Always stretch for an audiophile component.