For example, I'm sure the average joe doesn't know just how expensive calligraphy pens can be, or how deep the rabbit hole goes on video game speedruns.
Again, for the grinder you can, but don’t need to get poor. You should omit blenders that just cut the beans randomly down, but as soon as you get one with a proper grinder it’ll be fine.
I know what you’re saying, as I was following /r/coffee for q long time I’m doing it with my described setup for about 250€ total. And I am totally satisfied with my 2-3 espresso and espresso derivatives a day.
When going out even in high priced restaurants and coffee bars the espresso I get are mostly just en par. I get a wow effect elsewhere, but only rarely.