Nalod:

I also enjoy re-reading reviews of equipment I have subsequently purchased. I think your point of reference is much better after experiencing the equipment first-hand. It is also a way to calibrate your ear against the reviewers.

As to value for the money, I agree Outlaw products offer a big bang for the buck. Is there better performance out there? You bet!
However, for those of us who do not have the space or money for cost-no-object systems, it all comes down to a question of compromise.

For my needs and budget, I gravitate mostly toward gear that, for the masses, would seem somewhat extravangant, but in terms of an audiophile's performance measure, is only at the threshold of entry level.

From my years in the hobby, including retail sales, anything beyond that becomes a pursuit of diminishing returns (IMHO). Depending upon the component, you often have to spend 2-3 times more to get incremental improvements.