Once a performer plays / sings into a microphone, or mixing console, you have lost all truth, all reality, all the accuracy, of said instrument or voice. Recordings are limited, and the playback gear, is purchased, to try to reassemble it, back to it’s beginnings. No matter how much you spend, no matter what you do to your room, no matter how experienced you are, as a listener, the sound, will never be " like the real thing ". So, knowing I am listening to a recording, I stay engaged, and listen to the " playing ", the " singing "......the " performance, the artistry " aspect, of my favorite musicians. PRAT, is a real thing. Dynamics, is a real thing. Fortissimo and pianissimo, are a real thing. Yes, tone is important. Coherence is important. Stage development, is important. These are all part of live, unamplified music. Determine what is most important to you, and if who you are listening to, engages you, and continues, to keep you listening....you are, on your way. Enjoy !