does a stereo system sound like live music ?

The real hole in the argument:

Cheap gear vs expensive gear is a real choice (given access to enough cash).

Gear (any sort) vs live music is not a real choice:
Hey, should I put on a cd or run out to see a show tonight?

You make your hardware decision based on your own personal diminishing returns analysis for that purchase.

Then - go out and see a show!

"the other thought is to give you guys someone to attack. it's cheaper than going to a therapist, beating your wife, or other anti-social behavior."

Hmmm, I think MrTennis might like punishment. Quick, get the Cat O 9 Tails!

Hmm, looks like to me our Dr. Pingpong is actually the one who is enjoying the show of the little golden carps in the pond swimming frantically after the mechanical froggie! 'member guys and gals. . . keep smilin' or the old ticker may start a'rattlin'!

if my rig sounded like live music i'd throw it all in the trash & start over,really i would.

no low end bass,bloated mid bass & harsh highs,not the sound for me jack,to me live music is more about enjoying the (event) than it is about critical listening.

next thing your gonna tell us is all amps sound the same as long as thier not clipping.