I helped a friend curate one of the best sounding systems I’ve heard in real life (ie in a home not in a show room or audio show) for $3k. It absolutely spanks some $20k systems I’ve heard..
I think it’s about sitting back and being transported to the venue.. It’s possible ina very affordable way with some research and patience.
personally I’ve rejected that label when applied to me.. I take it as a pejorative term.