Fastest way to correct hifi system?

The fastest way is to let someone else do it for you.

does the local dealer know anything?

some do; some don't

your last item might be best

Why does it have to be "Fast?"

Good advice here.

I'd say the slowest and most hassle filled is to take the time to do everything yourself...although conceivably it may hold out the most promise for the "...that one can be satisfied with longterm" part of the equation.

Dealers do indeed vary in their level of knowledge and helpfulness, but once you've found a good one, it will then be on you to be as good as you possibly can be at successfully communicating with them on what it is exactly that you're looking for...and it may not help you too much if you're still substantially unsure about what it is that you want.

For that, continue to listen to as many different systems in people's homes, in stores or at trade shows to answer that question for yourself as best you can.

Best of luck to you!

There are several tips I have to build great sounding system analytically:

1. Use combined components such as receiver or integrated amp to build system around -- it's indeed the fastest. If you're planning to spin records, make sure it has phonostage built-in. Aslo have in mind players that you want to play and how many so you can have an idea how many inputs to the unit you need. 
2. Pick up speakers that will match to that integrated component receiver or amp
3. Pick up player(s) you wish to have with sufficient output (line or phono) for your integrated component. Bare in mind that having only one player(source) will certainly make process faster
4. Visit Mogami Ave to choose any wires necessary to connect your components, because it's never wrong way due to great quality and affordability.

Finally, to build system fast(yourself) you should at least pick up one static reference component that you want to build system around.