All my recent purchases were based on a combination of personal experience with similar products from the same manufacturer, or recommendations from highly regarded sources. Examples:
Pass Labs XA60.5 (had an XA30.5 first)
Goldenear Triton One.R (had the GE Triton One)
A-T ART9 cartridge - Audiogon forum recommendation
Modwright tube-modified Oppo 105D (familiar with other Modwright mods)
Manley Stingray - had not heard it, but bought used from dealer, so no risk
every one of these purchases worked out well - especially the Manley.
Pass Labs XA60.5 (had an XA30.5 first)
Goldenear Triton One.R (had the GE Triton One)
A-T ART9 cartridge - Audiogon forum recommendation
Modwright tube-modified Oppo 105D (familiar with other Modwright mods)
Manley Stingray - had not heard it, but bought used from dealer, so no risk
every one of these purchases worked out well - especially the Manley.