"everything affects everything else"
On this and other audio forums we need to keep in mind that there are many camps (including the grumpy old folks home). We have happy listeners out there who have the capability to enjoy and learn their own personal path as they go. Other folks plug & play but don't really explore the variables. Why they have time to voice their mean-spirit-ness is not a function of audio but a function of unsuccessful listening more than likely (misery loves company).
As far as tweaks I recommend getting rid of the system's mass and get as close to the audio signal pathway as you can without blockage caused by interference instead of interacting. The first few go arounds guys usually fall into the camp of "over do" till they find that they are not able to play a large selection of music. This isn't and never has been the recordings fault but the playback system itself.
Guys who have successful systems are able to play any recording they wish at will. Now that the industry has been in the change of the guard mode, it's a good idea to find a group of listeners you identify with and see where you can take each other. This is not a money thing but more turning your system into a listening tool.
Another thing Jerry, take a look at the amount of posts someone makes and on what type of thread. Some people have simply been here too long. They've become internet audio forum institutionalized. Once you've been a few rounds with those folks you either learn how to smile, understanding their stay is not about audio or music, or you get pulled into the drama only taking away from your own personal listening.
One last thing, don't be shy about taking a breather from this place to shake off the bad vibes. I can usually stand it here about a month then a break is a welcome sight and sound.
enjoy your system Jerry
mg