If you want to build a top notch system cost effectively, the old school niche audiophile magazines can be ignored totally these days. The winning products for both sound and value get a lot of coverage in other places.
Stereophile does at least often publish measurements, which can be of value if used correctly.
If it’s the more esoteric boutique products that are of interest then a different story. Nothing wrong with liking that stuff. It’s just that the average Joe will be poorly served thinking they have to go ballistic in order to get good sound. No longer the case. Happy days!