Qualities Of An End-game System

Theoretically,  what more do we need besides the enjoyment of music?  

Some of us like to tinker and hear differences. It is not only about the music.

The notion that upgrading or changing is only due to OCD is false, or this wouldn't be a legitimate hobby, it would be a psychological support group. I'm not saying you said this, but too many people equate changing things or upgrading things with a disease. This is a puritanical kind of remark and I reject it.

"End Game" seems like a variable term defined by expectations. reaching expectations is the end.

so my 'end game' would be different than yours. 

OTOH an 'ultimate system' might have certain commonalities, which i would agree include hearing the music and not gear or the room. that the music has flow and is lively, extended in the highs and lows, and has sufficient headroom to render large music naturally. and that it connects with the listener emotionally and is immersive and exciting.

This is right and also my own experience...

I just bought a headphone pair  by curiosity  and sell them  the same week ... 😊

But we must distinguish those who are in a not so useful  upgrades race as a solution instead  of basic knowledge experiments...

It is more about ignorance than OCD ...

Some of us like to tinker and hear differences. It is not only about the music

End Game = when the money is gone.