Is This the Essence of "The Audiophile Dilemma?

I think that most audiophiles that have embraced this hobby for a fairly significant length of time will admit it's not just about the music. Technology always keeps moving forward and with it the hope of gaining a little more satisfaction with change. I know for me, the 'streaming thing' has opened up a whole new world of listening options that have reenergized my interest across the board and I find myself spending more time with my system(s) than say a year or two ago. 

@mceljo

Well-stated, sir. (BTW, I wish I hadn't sold my Pathos Classic III. :) )

@brauser

+1000 on "the streaming thing"

Dilemma? How about "fun." Great audio is FUN, and if you're too tightly wound to have fun since you may be worried about your subs or "early reflections" (good name for a book) or toe-in...you should do something else. I look for new music frequently, and sometimes get curious about some new amp or something and when I try something and it's good, it's MO FUN. Bloviating hobby extremists who are utterly obsessed about sharing their self inflicted audio issues are clearly tedious and unhappy people needing therapy...and maybe another hobby.

the path is the goal :-)

If you have it, it's a self-made dilemma that with careful expert psychological training at great expense and over a long period can be overcome.

I have never had the irresistible concern that my system isn't performing satisfactorily.  But I do upgrade from time to time.  This is driven mainly by the market.  If a component - has to be active not passive - launches and receives very strong reviews then, if it's in my price range - quite high but not unlimited - I go to a dealer and borrow one for two or three weeks.  If it makes a big improvement then I probably buy it if I haven't had a purchase for a number of year.  Otherwise I don't make changes.  Recent changes/additions have been Ortofon Verismo, Audio Reasearch Ref 6, van den Hul The Grail SE.  All real game changers, although have three or four other brilliant cartridges - the Grail interprets them all to perfection and for only $20k.

I only get more satisfied with my system, not less so.

I don't sit on edge not enjoying the music because I'm waiting to hearing something I don't like.   That is audiofear, a deadly condition that kills the pleasure from music.  And from hi-fi.