Where do I learn more about audio stuff?

Check out a few audio magazines: Stereophile, the Absolute Sound, HiFi+; as well as some of the online review sites: 6Moons, Sounstage, Secrets of Home Theater and HiFi, ecoustics, Enjoythemusic, TNTAudio, DGAGGO, UltimateAVmag...this is just a sampling...

I think the best thing for a beginner to know is that system synergy is everything. The way your speakers fit your room and component matching will have the largest effect on the final sound.

What I mean is that you match you speakers to your room and your amp to your speakers etc.

You can not read a positive review and buy an amplifier (for example) and expect it to perform the same in your system as the article told you it performed in their system, the synergy between YOUR components will determine the outcome instead.

I second Robert Harley's book. Good stuff in terms that we all understand.

I just want to say that I've learned a great deal about audio just from posting and reading in these forums. Lots of knowledgeable folks, and an almost-always civil and friendly tone to the discussions. Enjoy!

Check to see if there are any audio clubs in your area. There's a list on agon (click here) to start with.

In our local club there are members at all levels and it's a very good source of information & experience. Most folks I know who are passionate about this hobby would be willing to help you in your quest for knowledge.