I have heard very expensive systems (even with tube electronics) that made my ears bleed - plenty of resolution, but also an a-euphonious bite. This is with recorded music that I was familiar with and generally enjoyed listening to on other systems. If this is how the original engineer intended it to sound, then we disagree on what sounds good.
On the other hand, I have heard other systems both modestly priced and quite expensive that have rewarding levels of content and spatial details and speed, while providing a neutral window on the recording, meaning some recordings are on the warm side, some slightly distorted or over heated, some emphasize the treble, and some/many sound just right. The difference along this price spectrum is that you generally pay to get more detail, speed and clarity at volume. Listening room plays a bigger role in all this than we may want to admit. Just try to tell your partner you need $100,000 for your new hifi and another $50,000 to redo your listening room so it doesn't hurt their ears. They will tell you what is not-too-bright...
On the other hand, I have heard other systems both modestly priced and quite expensive that have rewarding levels of content and spatial details and speed, while providing a neutral window on the recording, meaning some recordings are on the warm side, some slightly distorted or over heated, some emphasize the treble, and some/many sound just right. The difference along this price spectrum is that you generally pay to get more detail, speed and clarity at volume. Listening room plays a bigger role in all this than we may want to admit. Just try to tell your partner you need $100,000 for your new hifi and another $50,000 to redo your listening room so it doesn't hurt their ears. They will tell you what is not-too-bright...