New to the game. Need some beginners advice.

Spend lots of time listening to different speaker types (sealed box, ported box, open baffle, horns, electrostats, combinations, single driver, two ways, three ways, etc.) and decide which type of sound you prefer. Drive around, fly around, do whatever you are able to experience as much as possible. Reading this forum and reviews is fine, but let YOUR ears decide, not someone else's. Once you decide what type you prefer, then pursue that type. But also make sure that type can work well in your room, or if not, pick another room where it can (verify with manufacturer).

Then zero in on a specific speaker to purchase. Once you do, you can then purchase proper amplification for that speaker (again, verify with speaker manufacturer).

From this point you will have a very good foundation on which to build/tweak and eventually upgrade if desired.

RMAF is a good place to start, or some other audio show nearer to Waryan. Many big cities have audio societies. I'd also put out a feeler on all of the forums, asking if s/he could stop by to have a listen - IME people love to show off their systems. Hit all of the stores and dealers within a few/several hours driving distance. Any other ideas?