Welcome!
You didn't mention a source. Oppo makes the best disc spinners. If going the computer route, many prefer Apple mini, and check out Sterephile 2014 recommended components (many affordable DACs rated class A+, A, and B).
From 40+ years in audio:
Educate to music, audio, and gear - attend live (unamplified) music performances (to find out what it really sounds like), visit audio shows, join a local club (or two), audition gear, and read (eventually you'll learn to read between the lines of reviews and which reviewer you sync with)
Try to use spl (sound pressure level) meter/smart phone application with test tones to learn how loud/low you listen - the vast majority over-estimate both
Most underestimate the importance of the room - bigger is better (can do deeper bass, hear less of the room); shape is critical (reducing echo reinforcement); isolation essential (so you can listen when, what, how loud you want)
Experiment with speaker/listener positions - to reduce room effects near-field (like a 6 foot equilateral triangle) is ideal
Bass functions differently than higher frequencies - to achieve flat response you need a "swarm" (search Audio Circle) of subs (not treatments or EQ)
For my ear accessories have little sonic value - expensive interconnects, speaker cables, power cords; footers, platforms, racks; room treatments/EQ (in a "decent" room); power conditioners ( depending on how clean your power is)
What keeps audio alive as a pastime is how few definitive, black and white, answers exist. It took decades for researchers to find out how good vinyl is (and why). Digital sources are improving at a rate that most can't keep up (knowledge/money). Heck there is still a tube versus solid state debate after 50 years. And don't even start on speakers. So enjoy the music, the hunt, and the ride.
