Here is what I found works best and has taught me a lot:
I buy one component and then I buy all the direct competitors, one at a time, in the same price range. I keep the better of the two each time. This way, after trying a few, I have the best in that price category. You would be surprised how much difference there is between them! If you don't have the best at a price point when you "upgrade," then you are aimlessly wasting money.
In addition, you get to try them out in your system and with your ears so you KNOW what is best. This is the only way to do it.
Doing this, I have come across some components that are silly good for the money. i keep them in mind in case one day I need money or space and can "downgrade" without losing much quality at all. Good luck!
I buy one component and then I buy all the direct competitors, one at a time, in the same price range. I keep the better of the two each time. This way, after trying a few, I have the best in that price category. You would be surprised how much difference there is between them! If you don't have the best at a price point when you "upgrade," then you are aimlessly wasting money.
In addition, you get to try them out in your system and with your ears so you KNOW what is best. This is the only way to do it.
Doing this, I have come across some components that are silly good for the money. i keep them in mind in case one day I need money or space and can "downgrade" without losing much quality at all. Good luck!