What do you care about in this hobby?

@larsman true sound quality is the end goal for me then it becomes a matter of how all those other things factor in, which is where it gets really interesting.  
 

I care about measurements and quality of parts for example because they may translate into better sound.  Or do they?  Just how much do they matter?   What am I paying for exactly if I pay for better parts?   Better sound quality one would expect.   Why else bother?  
 

Aesthetics matter to me as well.  Call me shallow.    Not so much bling, more that everything looks nice and well thought out.  Especially when WAF comes into play. 

Then there is customer service.   I want it all and I want it now!  😉

How it sounds to me.  No matter how inexpensive.  One of my best sounding rooms utilizes a Reisong A10 EL34 Integrated Amp that costs me a whopping $350 including shipping.  I upgraded the tubes, and for less than $500 I have a beautiful tank build of an amp.  Sounds great with Klipsch Forte II and Heresy speakers.

Music first.

The rest will take care of itself.

#1 Enjoyment- Variety (SS,tubes,carts, swapping components in and out) at a high-sonic quality

I have enough friends.  I’m pretty much here to make enemies and disturb the peace.  I don't mean to brag but I think I've gotten pretty good at it.