@jakesnak I'm with you. I also understand your example of wine as analogous.
I don't get what the term "smooth" means when applied to an amplifier. My expectation / goal is for the recording to be expressed as 'intact' / as 'intended' as is possible.
Anathema comes to mind. Both English definitions are apropos. In Spanish, even more so. : )
1. something or someone that one vehemently dislikes.
2. a formal curse by a pope or a council of the Church, excommunicating a person or denouncing a doctrine.
As in: I would dislike an amp that smoothes what isn't smooth and I would reject an amp that does so.
Perhaps others who have posted above can help me with my (lack of) understanding?