what kind of audiophile are you ?

Yeah, I agree with Dave; I think there can be combinations. I've definitely felt like all three on more than one occassion, though more often 1 and 3. And then there are the days when the boom box and car radio are just fine.

I'm not exactly any of the above. I love the look of equipment particularly in silver but I wouldn't say I'm a fanatic. I don't pursue accuracy because I perceive accuracy as sometimes, cold or analytical, too precise, too razor sharp. I like the idea of correct instrument timbre but it's not my focus. I guess I'm more into having the music sound real, the real sound of a cymbal as it's struck by the drumstick, the "thwack" sound of a rim shot on a snare drum, the screech of the trumpet or sax on a high note. I'm into realistic reproduction of music. Haven't gotten all the way there yet- my system is still a little warm and not extended enough in the upper mids and highs.

Two and three for me. They go together, imho.

4) Hands on "perfectionist".

aka Modifying/DIY/Experimenting

The two things that drive me are music appreciation, and cost effectiveness. I'm all about getting the best bang for the buck. It's my scots heritage coming through.