I probably have a different outlook when it comes to my audio budget. First off I save up my pennies and pay cash for EVERYTHIG I buy. I have literally saved $100 of thousands over the years. It might take a little longer to achieve my goals but that only gives me time to study the products on the table. Then I must say there are people who would trade their souls for their music. I don't thing violating your morals (literally) is a good thing no matter what they may be.
BUT, I AM WILLING to forego a few 'T-bones' to get just a little better equipment and that never hurt anyone. And last but not least is if your musical desires take away form your family obligations in ANY WAY, you have overstepped any good policy.
Is there a ceiling limit on what you are willing to pay for an audio component?
A very informative fellow on youtube reviews high end audio gear. He pays an insane amount of money on ampifiers, speakers and digital sources. He tells you what he thinks about quality, price, customer service and performance on such brands as Magico, Boulder, Wilson Audio and many others.
So here is the question. What are YOU willing to pay for a pair of speakers? An amplifier? A DAC or turntable setup? I am interested in what you WOULD PAY, not what you have paid in the past.
For me, I cannot see myself paying over $5K on speakers and likely not more that $3K on any other component.... even if I had the kind of money Elon Musk has. Am I crazy in saying that?