Well spoken Lacee! Once I have established the basis for my system (loudspeakers and matching amp and that took many years, upstream devices), I have gone through some iterations to improve power, cabling, isolation and, as far possible, room treatment (WAF). During the iterations, I made upgrades to the components. It is a merry go round that I am happily sitting in as the journey is fun to be.
Going to select dealers and audio shows provides good reference points.