Is a highly discerning system enjoyable?

 Think it depends on your definition of “hi res”? A good system w/ solid state electronics can sound quite different to one of similar caliber but tube based. I’ve a few examples of each that to me sounded great & some that didn’t. It’s similar to a good turntable/ arm / cartridge set up vs good digital ( streaming or disc or whatever). Both can be considered “ hi res” but sound sound differently although in my system, they’re getting pretty close.

I personally like good , highly efficient horn loaded speakers powered by good tubes & their unmatched dynamics & live sound which for myself, is a must to be considered hi res. For others, that’s not important & really extended frequency extremes & detailed imaging & depth is a must. This variety is one of the things that makes this music enjoyment hobby fun!

The Mysterious Case of the Listening Window! - Jeff's Place (positive-feedback.com)    

Hearing the occasional wart in a recording shouldn’t ruin your appreciation of music as a whole.  And it’s fun to notice new details in familiar recordings.  So I emphatically answer No! To the thread title

I would think any system that makes bad recordings sound good, will also be changing the sound of good recordings...

Since discerning and emotive are not mutually exclusive, within a budget what drives my component selection? Fun with the music, then fun with the sound. I know when music takes control - involuntary movement, my spirit lifts and life is good. An upgrade must retain that quality and add to the shock and awe of the system.

So many remixes loose that quality while being a spectacular technical showcase. Like some systems.