My sweet spot is much higher than I can afford, so, I buy everything used. I have an audiophile rack, and I also like all separate components including monoblocks and tubes. I believe in "same manufacturer" component synergy & long term reliability (a must when buying used), so, I buy McIntosh. Of course, this can be limiting to many people. My "used component" sweet spot is approx. $5K and it takes me quite a few years to put the money together to build a system. My Wilson W/P 8 speakers cost $7K "used", and they were approx. 15 years old. I also buy my power cables and interconnects "used". When I calculate the actual original retail price of my system, I am floored. For me - audiomart, audiogon, ebay are all my friends. Of course, with a "used" strategy, you are mostly behind the lastest trends, but, it also allows you purchase components that have built the better reputations. Research is obviously important.
Of course, this strategy is not for everyone, but, for me, it works very well. It also allows me to buy/try all the audiophile tricks like higher end - interconnects, power cords, footers, power conditioners, etc...
