Wife bought me a kit for christmas so all that jazz came with it. The only thing handy in the whole kits was the plastic scraper.

I make it easy and do a no knead bread. It's the same shape almost. 4 hours to proof in the instant pot on the yogurt setting. Then rest for 30 minutes and then bake..... I'm gonna try the sour dough soon.

First thing, Cooking is art, Baking is science. With that being said using a scale to weigh your ingredients is easier than a measuring cup to get consistent results.

Second, pick someone that you think has good results and directions and follow their directions. Most people have problems when they take advice from too many others.

Third, don't over think it. The pioneers brought starter with them on wagon trains.

Fourth, some gadgets like a heated proofing box and heated wrap for your starter are very good if you have a cool or drafty house. Other than that most of the gadgets are just gadgets.