Philosophy used in assembling your system?

When putting together your system were there any underlying desgin philosophies used? Some examples would be:

- Most expensive component you can afford in every category (Cost no object).
- Best Value in every category.
- Cost ratios between components (ex. Speakers = 40%, Cables = 15%, and source components = 45%).
- Components types, i.e. Tubes vs. Solid State, totally digital or all analog.
- Listening preferences.
- The ascetics of a particular component.
- Best deals you happen to find.
- Physical dimensions and sound characteristics of your target listening room.
- Spouse's budget
- None of the above

Any input is greatly appreciated!

Jeff