I think on a certain level here we are talking philosophy.
IMHO there’s no comparison between a receiver and a good "separates" setup. The difference in performance should be easy to perceive. Whether that difference is worth it to you is a different question. No one can answer that question for you. It’s a personal thing. And probably - because it sounds like you’re married - something your wife will have an opinion on.
I heartily encourage you to buy the gear you want. It sounds like you have a nagging suspicion that it’s going to sound better. And it will! and if you get that Mac gear you’ll have those cool blue meters to look at! Ignore those who denigrate Mac gear. Yes, there are alternatives out there worthy of consideration. Yes, Mac gear is expensive. No, I’ve never owned any. But heck, it looks gorgeous and oozes style.
If you buy used you can experiment, try it out, see what you think. The journey should be fun. Savor the journey. Don’t be in a hurry. But you’re only going to get one journey through this earthly life. If you can afford it, do it. It’s gonna kick ass and you’re going to be grinning ear to ear and laughing like a madman.
IMHO there’s no comparison between a receiver and a good "separates" setup. The difference in performance should be easy to perceive. Whether that difference is worth it to you is a different question. No one can answer that question for you. It’s a personal thing. And probably - because it sounds like you’re married - something your wife will have an opinion on.
I heartily encourage you to buy the gear you want. It sounds like you have a nagging suspicion that it’s going to sound better. And it will! and if you get that Mac gear you’ll have those cool blue meters to look at! Ignore those who denigrate Mac gear. Yes, there are alternatives out there worthy of consideration. Yes, Mac gear is expensive. No, I’ve never owned any. But heck, it looks gorgeous and oozes style.
If you buy used you can experiment, try it out, see what you think. The journey should be fun. Savor the journey. Don’t be in a hurry. But you’re only going to get one journey through this earthly life. If you can afford it, do it. It’s gonna kick ass and you’re going to be grinning ear to ear and laughing like a madman.