Not impressed

In response to Mihorn, I do not think there is a battle between high end audio and "puny earphones". Those who predominantly or exclusively use iPods or similar players with earbuds probably have no interest in high end audio for no other reason than either they have no familiarity with it or associate listening to music with mobility, and I don't mean upward.

You should speak with Bo1972. He goes all over the world and has tested every component and has done demonstrations for every manufacturer and has consistently shown hi-end dealers how to get the best sound at the shows. He has multitudes of clients that he had shown how to achieve a realistic 3d soundstage and accurate tonal timbres. He can help you get off the merry go round for sure!

A BOPHILE...wow. Bo1972 is an oddly misguided pretentious weirdo who should be ignored, as should Alex, and maybe Chayro since he's a Bophile. I should make a list...

Keep at it please - it "will" reward !
Brain doctors can measure the good influence it has on us...
but it requires some work - learning curve if you will...

You can just get an all in one speakers like the Denon Cocoon 500 model from amazon, and stream music from your computer, and be done with it. It's on sale at 1/5 the msrp ($129 + free shipping).

I too feel like you about many things, but what can we do, we have to keep plugging at it, 'til we reach our goals in life, and for me, this glorious hobby is a search for happiness it self...

I had some moments when I was in tears of happiness...

...hope you too find your sonic nirvana for not much money (buy used)...

Go vintage....I have spent a ton of money climbing the HiFi ladder but at the end of the day I have always preferred my vintage system. Sure it has its shortcomings but you won't be out a ton of money chasing the dragon .