Close your eyes and hear the music ?

For me what enhances the music most is...better equipment. Seriously though, lights off does it, as does lying down, even though it puts my ears at the wrong angle. Oh, and I actually prefer having my wife with me, whether we're making our own music or not.

For serious listening the lights are always down; low level mood lighting is better than total darkness. Something nice to drink, like a good wine or brandy, doesn't hurt, either. Has anyone else pick up on how much all of these descriptions sound like the latter stages of a good date?

BTW, Kitch, what's the source of that quote? I'd direly like to know.

Since i think that everyone was pretty much afraid to "go there", i'll have to explain my "inside joke" about Bob's system. The "side effects" of having horn loaded speakers MIGHT be that it makes one "horny". With some good tunes and his woman present, who could blame him ??? : ) Sean
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I have not heard anyone mention yawning. It clears my ears and the music sounds much better.

.....a considerably different take on this; the other day I completed a vigorous workout about mid-afternoon, toweled off and flopped down in front of my warmed up stereo. A great experience, the music was more crisp, clear, warm, and natural than I'd ever heard it.

I've read that exercise enhances hearing, but this was my best experience with this phenomenon-- got to try this some more. But usually I like the relaxing, low lights, late evening ambiance with Shirley Horn, Diana Krall, Holly Cole etc.. Cheers. Craig