I would say for someone new to high end, the experience seems to be just fine.
I personally believe audiophiles exaggerate subtle details all the time. So a tiny diifference,like from a cable is called 'jaw dropping' etc.
Yes about blowing money on amp upgrades just because I had the money.
I bought a $5K amp to replace a great under $2K amp, just because I had the money burning a hole in my pocket.
Speakers are the biggest things which have different sound. And as the op noted, even changing the angles can have a huge impact on the sound.
After you get to know your 'sound' I think you may begin to be able to hear little things better.
Changing the whole system at one time is hard, as you lose your 'reference'.
One odd thing I note is how easy it is to get used to better sound, almost instantly. And only going back to the old sound can I say wow that sucked.
As for buying for looks.. no problem. A LOT of higher end gear is built to look good as well as work good.
I personally believe audiophiles exaggerate subtle details all the time. So a tiny diifference,like from a cable is called 'jaw dropping' etc.
Yes about blowing money on amp upgrades just because I had the money.
I bought a $5K amp to replace a great under $2K amp, just because I had the money burning a hole in my pocket.
Speakers are the biggest things which have different sound. And as the op noted, even changing the angles can have a huge impact on the sound.
After you get to know your 'sound' I think you may begin to be able to hear little things better.
Changing the whole system at one time is hard, as you lose your 'reference'.
One odd thing I note is how easy it is to get used to better sound, almost instantly. And only going back to the old sound can I say wow that sucked.
As for buying for looks.. no problem. A LOT of higher end gear is built to look good as well as work good.