What is your audio axiom?

1) Variation in music/recordings is greater than variation in gear.

2) If sound differences of gear are not obvious*, they are not there or are irrelevant because of 1)

* based on "Statistics proves the obvious"

Patience, listen, research, learn. This is a long term pursuit that can be incredibly rewarding. However you have to be comfortable with ambiguity and learn to listen and hear. Each turn can be rewarding. Early days are the hardest until you get the basics down: not believing marketing hype, measurements, and in "Giant Killers". Sound quality comes in different flavors... highly detailed, punchy, natural and musical. The later is likely to be the most satisfying long term... but lots of folks like sound spectacular system. Figure out what you like... but realize it will change over time. 

Not one thing, and only a tiny sliver.

" buy lightly used and your money will go twice as far".

Lots of great top advice. Nice stuff.

“It’s both worth it and not worth it.”

“It’s worth it” - what audiophiles tell themselves when purchasing a component 

“it’s not worth it” - how audiophiles view many/most above budget components

….now, what about your spouse? 😉