The thing about ARs (IMO) is that as long as you don't go bottom shelf junk (psa and up is safe), you're going to be 95% of the way to a $3000 gun.
Yea sure, a PSA. is not "just as good" as a daniel defense, noveske, bcm, etc, but those guns that cost 5x as much defiantly aren't 5x better.
This isn't like a smith vs a taurus revolver where spending 40% more gets you twice the gun.
You're certainly not guaranteed any better accuracy out of those high end guns either.
Just be realistic about what your needs are. If you're not kicking down doors or spending time on a two way range, no reason to go top shelf IMO.
Just get a decent barrel, bolt carrier group, and that larue trigger, and you'll be set.
Also, if we were truly in TEOTWAWKI kinda deal, I'd much rather spend 3k on 6 PSAs for the homestead and loved ones, than spend that cash on one top shelf gun.
Optics, OTOH, are a bit different story. You get what you pay for (except for with SWFA, then you get way more than what you pay for :)).
Do put it together yourself, or at least buy assembled upper and lowers.
That saves the manufacturer on taxes, which translates to money in your pocket.
