Audiophile newbie

the nice sound is achievable at reasonable price points. it should be way cheaper than s-class mercedes benz, but there are systems that worth more or even a-couple more and there are systems that priced beyond sanity as well.

it's nearly same with any merchandise. as an example prada shoes worth $$$$ not because they're best. in most cases it's quality and even design will be inferior to a large array of more affordable manufacturers to choose from.

b smart and sane when listening to someone's advice and always try to make your own sense.
the main principal i've learned that not always higher priced component will sound better than lower priced component and if lower priced component sounds just as good as much higher priced component, i hope you definitely know which one is to choose.

Audition, audition and audition some more. Then remember that whatever you're listening to will sound very different once you get it home. This was easier back in the day when audio shops were more common than they are now. Regardless, take your time, check out as many rigs as you can, do your homework and buy what sounds good to you. My rule of thumb is that if it isn't fun, it isn't worth it.

Good luck & happy listening!

I will offer a few first hand suggestions on bang for buck brands that are reasonably available due to broad distribution ( and therefore likely to find a place to audition):

Speakers--Vandersteen, B&W

Components--Rotel, NAD

Although I have other much more expensive gear, I still own and ise all of them in ancillary systems (0ffice, garage, bedroom) and still find them very satisfying.

At your age you're smart for knowing that if you don't manage your money it'll manage you. It also depends on what you like more. Money or music. Better to wait. You can always pull the trigger later when you are in a better position financially, and avoid a lot of upgrading and losing money. Tubes can be costly. Hint Hint. Take the above advise, the others have provided and study, audition, and learn. Your ears will help you make the right choices. Good luck.

Give some thoughts to your listening habits. Where in the room will you be listening from? Where will/can the speakers go? How far away from walls?

Get speakers that will work well in your room and sound good where you listen from. Different kinds of speakers disperse sound in different directions differently. Are you going to set up a sweet spot and stay in it? If so, there are many options. If not, you should consider speakers that disperse sound more and sound better from more locations. Omnidirectional speakers are worth considering if you want good sound from many listening locations in the room.

Also consider how loud you will listen and if speakers can deliver clean extended bass as needed. LArger rooms are usually more of a challenge and may cost more to do really well in terms of speakers and amp to match that can bring out the best possible. Smaller rooms are easier.

These things are most important to think about up front. THen you are better prepared top decide what will likely work best.

Audition as much as possible before buying. In home demos are best but dealer demos and audio shows are good tools.

Lastly, do not overpay. Consider buying used if you are comfortable with that. That will make it easier to tweak and change as needed until just right without taking a big financial hit.