How can audiophiles continue to exist with knowledge 
    being so easily available?

Well, good news! There is a newer breed of data-driven audiophiles who rely on hard data and solid engineering.

An example would be https://www.audiosciencereview.com - he has reviewed a few thousand projects using industry standard measurement gear like Audio Precision analyzers, Klippel scanners, etc.

Same with Erin's Audio Corner: https://www.youtube.com/@ErinsAudioCorner/videos

Most of the audio-related subreddits hew to this approach as well.