Thank you for the thoughtful comments.

Quote Originally Posted by skeptic
I am mostly focused on classical music which I consider the only music which is sufficiently compelling to justify the cost and effort of the best technology has to offer.
Agreed. I particularly like minimally miked recordings, both old and new. Some of the three miked Mercury recordings from the 50s still hold their own in realism to me.

Quote Originally Posted by skeptic
In short, there is NO equipment anyone could conceivably offer at any price which in any way resembles what is currently offered that would satisfy me any more than what I currently own.
While I won't debate satisfaction, you may be surprised at what is available today. My point of reference got completely recalibrated a couple of years ago when I first heard one particular system. It is so startlingly better than anything else I've ever heard. The problem is that you really cannot go to any dealer and hear such. Nor are shows particularly good sonic environments. While those experiences haven't lessened the enjoyment I get from listening to music with my gear, they have opened my eyes (er, ears) at what is possible.

rw