I thought this article from back in 2015, posted at The Guardian, was well researched, insightful and balanced.
I hope you find it interesting:
Great article! Describes me to a T. I’m still unsure about lots of things in this hobby, but the level of enjoyment that quality gear provides is priceless. I spend what I can afford and maybe a little more. I would way rather have a high end stereo than a high end car or a second house. Do try to keep it about the music and not equipment obsession.