Where to get advice on a new system build

@parkergetdean I’m enjoying this already!  Of course, a million questions to follow.

Bke TMRaudio has plenty of gear for audition, they are legit.All used and I think dealers for new stuff.

TMR is a good suggestion. I haven’t swapped speakers in years but amp - many times - they have a good selection.

@bke1, hello, you are on the correct path, with a proper dedicated room. IME, this hobby is about us, the listeners. With your background involved in the industry, you likely have developed some "taste"; "characteristics" in recorded music that are most important to you, and it is all subjective, as you will get many different opinions on what "sound" people like. Start with speakers. Always speakers. Expectations of a listening experience is all over the place when it comes to this hobby. The way I see (hear) it, a "stage" of musicians is placed before us. Live vs studio recordings, it is all the same when it comes to what we want. You need to seek out "what you want". Did you enjoy the Wilsons you heard? Why, and why not? It is simple, and complex at the same time. Search out speakers that meet your wants, needs and desires. Tone, dynamics, sound staging, are all examples of characteristics delivered through the recordings, and YOU need to figure these out, 1st, before anything else. Keep in mind, what one person likes and enjoys, might not be what you like and enjoy. 20K will get you some nice, used stuff. This is all about you. I own Klipsch Lascalas (with tweaks and mods) with RSL 12S subs. Gives me what "I am looking/listening for. Subjective, personal, engaging. Enjoy! MrD.

Do audio stores still allow for demo with CDs?  If so, maybe bring a few.

When I demoed speakers, I brought an assortment of CDs : test recordings of acoustical instruments (piano, horn, violin..), male and female voices, orchestra, and familiar music, etc.