Some of the things you are stating are a matter of opinion, and you are right; studio monitors vs. stereo speakers will give you COMPLETELY different results. To say one is better than the other in whatever case simply falls on you and what your intention is. If you are trying to be a better engineer and you really want to better your recording skills, than you want some studio monitors to give you that. A home stereo isn't much of a substitute in this case, but if you are just recording for fun and if this works for you; than I would go for that. It doesn't hurt to have both in the event that you want to switch back and forth between the two, if that is in your means. However, good studio monitors make great playback speakers for music, TV, etc.; especially those KRK's.

Best of luck on your decision.