When I listen to my system.......

@8th-note Good analogy and one I often use.

@ozzy62  + 1 more.

@ OP

There is much information on our recordings, and generally, many of these recordings are just so so with the fidelity.

I've often heard about the bad recordings.   and how the stereo which pointed out these bad recordings were accurate. Those which make them sound better are supposedly "colored". I remember starting down this audiophile trail and having albums & CD's that were unlistenable. But as my system has become better and better I have found that these unlistenables became more listenable until I'm not sure I have any vinyl left that doesn't sound pretty good. Of course, I haven't played "Layla" in a long time which may be 6the final test subject. Being a musician also, I also value the musicianship. So it is a balance of ALL the music attributes and a good system brings more music to my liking because of its ability to sound somewhat live instead of a recording

Most of the modern age speakers tend to be more clinical and revealing with all kinds of detail and somehow people really like this, at least in the show room it’s impressive.

But then when they take it back home and say wow this is very fatiguing and where is the enjoyment. My older speakers from 20 years ago can be arguably more enjoyable even though they have less detail qualities. But they certainly have a really nice soundstage and fill the room.

So I take to heart with what thread originator is saying in his massive paragraph

Great comments above. I was not stating my way of listening was the best or right way of listening, although for me, it certainly is. I gave up my career as an audio consultant a bit earlier than I had anticipated, because many customers were more into the equipment and gear (just like a guy on yt who deals with the most expensive available) rather than the music. The music leads me to better gear, not the other way around. I understand all views, and I promise I am not judging....just questioning. When sitting by the pool, the pair of wall hanging Polk Atrium speakers still bring me the joy of music, and there is no problem following the tunes. When in my vehicle, the same. The hobby is wonderful, for whatever the personal goal is. To each his/her own might be....ymmv etc. I appreciate the comments and camaraderie shown here and wish my best to you all. Always, MrD.

@ mrdecibel, you stated "How is it that anyone can put tone, sound staging, or anything else with the "sound" before the performance."

I understand your position, but I think your premise is flawed. 

The issue is not performance/composition VERSUS sonic reproduction .  The issue at hand is - what is the result of the performance/composition AND sound (sonic character of the recording/playback processes).  These elements are synergistic (or at least additive).

Viewed another way, better performances/compositions are necessary, but not sufficient... AND  better sounding recordings/gear improve the experience of ALL recordings. You need BOTH.

IMO - You can not truly appreciate musicianship and composition when listening to poorly engineered recordings (I just gave away ~600 LPs of this type).  Conversely, great recordings of mediocre performances are equally unsatisfying (I also gave away ~100 LPs of this type).

Give it some thought... I hope you find your answers satisfying.

Well, it gives us all something to troll each over....;)

I think you are on to something, @asvjerry .