Is it worth the trouble?

I read frequently of time consuming and energy sapping exercises by various members who are in quest of a vague sonic ideal. At the same time, I see reference to the point of diminishing returns in regard to pricing of equipment. Is there a point of diminishing returns which would apply to efforts? Is it really worthwhile to spend an entire weekend evaluating the relative sonic merits of several plating metals? Wouldn't you rather just enjoy what you have?