I live just down the highway from you...I will be right over!!!
I agree that build quality is very important, and overall that a source is paramount to a quality system. I think the problem is that most stores lead with speakers ( and to be fair, they are the most visible piece of a system) when you enter. I know a lot of people that have not balanced the components in a system, and the reason is they were "told" to spend more on speakers. Very few people have heard, or taken the time to search for quality sources. Are all of the upscale models better than lower cost models? Not at all.
I like to suggest that people take the time to listen to all ranges and price points for all pieces. This will allow you to learn the industry.
