This was fed by a Larvy DAC/Mac and nothing else but XLR cables - a real simple system that sounded amazing, but just lacked some bottom end slam, but had lots of transparency!
If you like dynamics and energy then active is a good way to go. You may get used to tight pro sound bass - it takes a while - initially you think the bass is not there compared to usual fare - until you realize that instead of heavy bass on every track you sometimes get it and sometimes don't - all depends on the mix.
One thing I can say for high energy dynamic sound is that it is really exhilarating - every time you listen - the effect does not wear off. Basically modest volume nice sounding systems are everywhere - in your luxury cars, most headphones, even cheap audioengine PC speakers sound pretty good these days - however speakers that really rock and turn a home listening session into a "live performance" are in a whole other league. It will put "fun" back into your listening sessions.
The kicker or downside is that if you like this "grunt" high energy sound it is going to cost you a fair bit for a decent sub - cause you will need a really good sub to keep up. Think JL F113 or SVS PB12 or HSU VTF-3 Mk II - check the HT Shack Subwoofer tests to see how they rate subs - get something with high output, low distortion and low group delay and obviously something you like the sound of with your choice of speakers. You may also find room modes more of an issue if you get the bass really clean and extremely powerful - think bass trapping may be needed.
As far as the mid life crisis - perhaps you might also check out your local Harley-Davidson dealer?h for you.