I always favoured buying more music when I was younger rather than getting a decent stereo. The quest for finding great albums was greater than the desire to hear them sounding at their best. About 3 years ago I was running out of ideas for artists to explore so I went to Richer Sounds and bought a decent set of speakers, a good amp, a turntable etc. What a difference - although I find it preferable having the massive collection of music to enjoy with it. I remember a kid at school (1980s) who had the top of the range stereo and only about 3 albums which I never got. He equally couldn't get why I had 200 records and a cheap dansette. We're all different I guess.
I also now have some £150 laptop speakers which make YouTube sound much more acceptable.