"sounds better" is very subjective. Totally depends on what one is listening for. If one doesn't really know what real symbols sound like (vs electronic generated), violins, pianos, vs electronic, then how would they know it is accurate?
And just to be clear. Unless a component has exactly the same transfer function as another different piece, there is no way it is going to operate, let alone sound the same.
The ability to drive difficult loads. How robust is the power supply? etc. You can make an amp that sounds acceptable at low levels driving easy loads. But, when you really need power (not volume), it is like trying to get large flows of water through a small diameter pipe. not going to happen. That is why power supply design to date is still extremely important.
This is similar to discussions about wine. lots of people can't tell the difference between a Cabernet Sauvignon and a Merlot, let alone tell you the nuances of the wines. But, a simple test and they will. have them taste a wine, then have them smell certain items that are found in the wine, like earth, certain fruits, etc. Then ask them to taste the wine again. The majority that I've seen all of a sudden can taste these things in the wine. Why? because they now know what to taste for.
Same for music reproduction. play live unamplified music, then recorded music with the same instruments. or even music they know well. See if they don't tell you the instruments sound not quiet real on their recorded music. if, the system or certain components aren't quite up to task.
To me, it totally depends on who's listening and what they are listening for.
enjoy
