I've had audiophiles over who have $850,000 and $1,000,000 systems and the former one's system stunk even though the owner only felt that it was a little bright (I would have quit listening to music is was sooo hard, bright and forward). His jaw dropped when he heard my system. Oregonpapa and Robert know how awesome my main audio system is (from these forums). Oregonpapa's system is excellent too! Our systems cream 95% of all audio store and show systems. Until I move, I have a 5,000 cu ft room to really let my big speakers sing out. So, when I say CDs can sound as good as analog, there's knowlegable audiophiles and music lovers who agree. It's a thrill having people get goosebumps listening to my music. They stay for hours and don't want to leave. That's a system playing engaging sounding music.
It's true, audiophiles often don't know what music should sound like reproduced in a listening room but they think their systems are excellent (although look how often they change gear). I haven't changed my components from 10 to 30 years (SME IV and VPI 19-4/Ultracraft are the longest in my system). I use tweaks to get the most out of the equipment despite their "age."
