Do we really know what "Live" music sounds like?

Sounds like from where - a foot from the source? 50 feet from the source? Back of the hall at an arena? Live music sounds really different depending on where you're listening from. So the answer is yes and no. 

Deep experience with anything allows you to make adjustments. If you are at live concerts that are being recorded. Look around. Where is it being recorded from. When ever I go to a concert I look and listen to the acoustics. I look for microphones, the concert control panels. 
 

So many rock and other electronic concerts are screwed up… bad venues, bad volume control. But going to them you can learn.

@jjss49 

My Goodness - I never told you how incredible Chris Potter was. A fantastic show. He was so giving to everyone on stage. An intimate setting in Philly  made for a VERY memorable night. 

@firberger 

great to know you enjoyed c.p. -- he is one of my faves, tremendous talent, musicality, tone, and very likeable in how he relates to the audience as well

Back to the amplifier + speaker. If you want the system to have live music, the key is on the right pre. Preamplifiers could be very different,some very high price pre could filter some sparkle of the recording,which you do not know if you do not compare.