Each time i used tone controls for the better , it was to compensate for some lacks in my components or from the room...
I did not use them no more at the end...
It is nor bad and nor right to use tone controls...
And it is nor bad or right to use equalization , mechanical or electronical EQ.
It is some tools...
I use EQ. now for my marvellous headphone to get them more near the Harman curve optimum.. And i use this not because i believe that the Harman curve is the ideal , even if it is statistically so, i use EQ. because my headphone need it to satisfy my ears and my ears are more satisfied near the Harman curve after my experimentation...
What matter is the musical experience through sound...You get it with your components the best you can and with your tools...