I would agree that understanding basics is essential, but.... a multimeter (bench or handheld), a power supply and a reasonably good 'scope will aid in the learning curve. Looking at pictures in a book of a particular circuit, and pictures of the waveforms being generated is one thing, but actually measuring and probing to see actual results is much better. There are plenty of "cookbook" circuits that a beginner can build for fun and learning, and the "basics will become much clearer. And besides you have to start somewhere; I have several instruments that I purchased when starting out that are no longer really useful to me, but I upgraded accordingly as my knowledge expanded.
I would say to the OP, don't be discouraged, buy some basic instruments, and have at it. It will be a fun journey!