"audiophiles listen to their equipment"

I agree. Even poor recordings sound better on a good system. So much more detail even if this detail is a bit harsh or compressed.

Excessive compression is the single parameter of sound I can't get past,. Loss of micro dynamics in recordings defeats the whole purpose of my system which is to produce the illusion of live performers in room.  I actually prefer these 'lo fi' recordings on relatively lo fi systems like in my car.

The term 'audiophile' began its' life in the mid 1950s.... "a person who is especially interested in high fidelity sound reproduction."

Notice 'music' is not mentioned... 

The 'haters' like to claim audiophile status just for liking music... not.

We search out equipment... cables... tweaks... room treatment... moving speakers a 1/4"... to perfection... all for reaching the best possible reproduction of sound ... that we can afford.

And we try everything... even cable risers... and as our systems get better, we don't stop... we just keep listening for the next best thing.

That is an Audiophile... everything matters.

@hilde45 ...

No one wonders how we can BOTH think about the taste of our food and then go back to enjoying it.   

I think listening to ones' equipment is analogous to considering how your dish was prep'd, cooked, and plated...

...but my spouse is a food show junky....a format that's so ripe for parody I almost can't stand the lack of.... 
Although 'Cutthroat Kitchen' with a physical end to the losers might be a little off-putting....*L*

I listen to equipment because I want my equipment sound at its best.  Good equipment makes my music sound better, and enhances my enjoyment.   It is a virtuous circle for me.