when you say audiophile you mean the kit right? hi-fi etc.
not into the kit so much. im more interested in the production of music rather than what it is heard on.. although you are of course right in wanting the best quality.
in this day and age that seems a requisite most of the manufacturers appear happy to neglect, in favour of size/gimmicks and appearance, or so it sounds anyway.
as far as im concerned some of my best 'kit' originates from at least 15 years ago. some older.
i have a massive 7 stack behemoth sat growling in the corner..looking like part of the set of 'close encounters' at least its far too big and loud really

but ill not swap it for a sony anyday!. speakers though are a different tale. i always like the old mordaunt-shorts..
heck im getting older by the sentence!!!

but you are right. sound matters.