The problem that I have with the OP’s premise, as posted, is this; although I agree with some of the specific points that he makes.
First, there is the issue of referring to tweaking as “nonsense”.... no it’s not! Not going to go through the well known list of all the very effective tweaks that are possible when implemented intelligently. That stuff is obvious, and if anyone can’t hear the benefits that’s not my problem; it’s theirs. I don’t think anyone has ever suggested that the benefits of placing a preamp on proper footers are on a par with that of buying much better speakers, but “nonsense”? C’mon now! I know what I hear and why does it bother those that don’t that I do? I am afraid the OP’s “reality” which he wants to educate “today’s hobbyists” about is incomplete and limiting.
First, there is the issue of referring to tweaking as “nonsense”.... no it’s not! Not going to go through the well known list of all the very effective tweaks that are possible when implemented intelligently. That stuff is obvious, and if anyone can’t hear the benefits that’s not my problem; it’s theirs. I don’t think anyone has ever suggested that the benefits of placing a preamp on proper footers are on a par with that of buying much better speakers, but “nonsense”? C’mon now! I know what I hear and why does it bother those that don’t that I do? I am afraid the OP’s “reality” which he wants to educate “today’s hobbyists” about is incomplete and limiting.