How isolated is your hi-fi?

My high-end system is located in a dedicated room and this room was a priority when we had our house built (my wife's priority was a large kitchen and plenty of other entertaining rooms.) It is my belief that to extract the maximum performance from a hi-fi system a dedicated room is needed - this will allow the use of proper acoustic treatment and a highly symmetrical arrangement, with respect to the speakers. My family understands that I have been into audio for over 25 years and totally accepts my unique hobbies (I have others). We do not think of my dedicated room as a form of societal isolation, but rather a means of fully appreciating the art of music reproduction. Some hobbyists have dedicated woodworking shops; others art studios or large garages with vintage automobiles. In general, these are places we practice our passions and are not necessarily a social and family screen. I realize a dedicated room will not work out for everyone, but for those seeking the ultimate hi-fi experience and have understanding family members, it is wonderful.

When my GF and I were looking to buy our first place, I suggested a seperate bedroom/den for the system since she seemed bothered by it visually in our living room. To my shock she said no way, if we're going to have a stereo, especially a silly expensive one, then we should both be allowed to use it, including any friends that come over. I was rather surprised by this but couldn't argue, and the more I think about it the happier I am not to be locked away in some soulless dedicated room.

Having a "purpose built" dedicated room,I can understand some sentiments on these threads.Yes,I definitely feel a bit isolated at times.There is something psychologically different about listening alone,having to walk to the end of my home,and being isolated.However,the ability to "really" max out all the NUMEROUS variables that matter,in a high resolution set-up,come to the fore much more easily.The room's ambient noise floor,alone,is something that is astonishing when addressed with low noise componentry.I love it,but don't feel I "need" it!I have a few super serious hobbyist friends,who have wonderful "shared" rooms.A dedicated one is NOT a must,but quite nice!
These are just some of my experiences,and I would definitely NOT state that one needs to have a dedicated room.I have been just as happy in past rooms,which shared other aspects of living space.
Best to all

I guess the grass is always greener. I would like nothing more than to have a dedicated space where I can optimize my system and got the most out of it. We already have music systems throughout my house in the family room, patio, master bedroom, and loft. As a family we spend a lot of time casually listening to music but when I listen to my setup it is usually after my kids go to bed. My wife hardly ever ventures into the living room when I am listening unless so is reading a book or surfing the web on the laptop so isolation is not a real problem for me. In fact, I prefer it. Everyone needs some "me" time. I only listen to my system for 1 hour a night before going to bed anyway.

My bedroom is my listening room, it is a part of my life rather than existing a part from my life. There are trade offs but such is life.