Really satisfied???

At the risk of sounding smug, I am. At the beginning of 2017 I decided to build a TT based system for my office. Turntable is a Michell Engineering GyroDec (full plinth, not the SE version) with an SME IV tonearm and Clear Audio Maestro V2 Ebony cartridge. Preamp is a McIntosh C50 with a McIntosh MC275-MK VI tube power amp. And now for the really interesting bit; speakers are a pair of fully refurbished  Gale GS401A's. For those of you not familiar with Gale speakers here is a link:

http://www.vintagegale.com/index.php

The whole system sits on a custom made Core Audio plyKraft 3L stand. Not only does this system look beautiful (IMHO) it also sounds spectacular. Interestingly, my main system is a Krell/B&W set that cost about twice as much. The new Michell/Gale/McIntosh system sounds just as good, if not better. I have absolutely no plans to upgrade this system and I am enjoying playing records all over again after a 33 year absence.

For more information, see my previous post on this system.

I have been really satisfied with the sound of my system several times in the past 40 years.

That doesn't stop me from looking, or even buying something else.
Sometimes it's another step forward, sometimes it's a step backward or sideways. It's all part of the dance. ;^)

Agreed.  You can be totally satisfied and still have the itch.  It's something about being an audiophile rather than a "melomane".  There's always that curiosity, that "what if?" question hovering somewhere around.  Also, total satisfaction doesn't = "perfection".

It's in our nature to know more and want something better. The rest of the world can learn something from that way of thinking, even if it only results in better music appreciation.

All the best,
Nonoise