Are you at this point??

Damn computer skills "BEST"

Finally, just recently I am satisfied (if not exactly done). I can envision potential technology induced upgrades, especially related to source components such as server based sources or higher resolution digital products such as Blu-ray, etc. When I got back into this hobby about 8 years ago, I started down the wrong path by purchasing a variety of well-reviewed equipment that I could afford used, without really considering the characteristics of the components and speakers I purchased, or the synergy between them. Just over a year ago, I started over with an amp and speakers having the sonic characteristics I was looking for, a "good" redbook-only CD player, and knew I was almost "done." Finding a suitable preamp was hardest. Through a lot of trial and error, I determined I liked the sound of tube preamps, but didn't want tubes. I finally found some SS preamps I could live with, then recently settled on the very excellent Tom Evans Vibe/Pulse preamp. So, over the past 8 years I have learned a lot, had some fun, and assembled a great sounding system at a fraction of the cost of buying new, with the trade-off being that I have invested a lot of time (on tweaks, upgrades, rebuilding speakers, etc.) that could have been better spent. In retrospect, I am not sure the time I have spent purchasing equipment used, and unheard, was worth it compared to 25 years ago when I frequented a brick and mortar audio dealer, determined what I wanted by listening (not reading), then purchased my ADS L810's and NAD system that served me with great music for almost 20 years!

Sure, just don't listen to other systems and stop reading this site :-))

I think I can enjoy my modest vintage system for a very long time. I look at other hardware, but don't feel the need to change. Maybe I am easy to please, but if my toes tap, I am in tall cotton.

Satisfaction, that's a very interesting concept. I find I am always chasing a weak link of some sort. I do agree that the music is just part of the beauty of this hobby. I really enjoy listening to new and unknown equipment and chasing vinyl. I think the moment we feel we are at the end of the road it is only fleeting.