Apples and oranges

Every system is in some manner different. Soundstaging, for example, In a more “refined” system is going to be a different thing than in a less defined system.
I know when I started out, I had no idea what was possible in that regard. I blithely assumed what I was hearing was the the way things were supposed to sound. I could not intelligently discuss the issue, because I did not know what was possible. My parameters were certainly different from those of more advanced audiophiles.

Accepting the fact that “intelligently” is also a relative thing, can you be more specific?  What were the things that you felt you could not discuss with those that had more advanced systems?  I guess my feeling is that your concern is simply part of the nature of discussion forums.  Unless we are in the same room it is not possible to describe EXACTLY what we are hearing in a way that is meaningful to everyone else.  So, we are left with what can only be generalities to an extent.  Of course, some are better than others at communicating sonic traits.  I’ll offer one simple example in the simplest of terms:

Audiophile with rudimentary system says:  “I feel like my center fill image is not as solid as it could be.  I have tried experimenting with toe-in, but it only improved marginally.  What else should I try?”.

What would invalidate audiophile with advanced system to suggest:  “If you have experimented with toe-in, make sure you also experiment with moving the speakers slightly forwards or backwards; it worked for me”.  One could also reverse the rudimentary vs advanced description and the idea would still apply.

All I’m  really saying is that systems of varying levels sound different.  Each of us is hearing a differing thing. I guess you’re right when you say intelligent discussion can still take place.

It sounds like you are really referring to the listener's knowledge and sophistication rather than their system.

I have had to pull away from the herd, as my hearing, tastes, and wives change.