In Harry Pearson's day, The Absolute Sound decreed that the sound of a live acoustic space is the sonic holy grail. But that type of sound is now a niche industry. I'm 51, and I didn't grow up listening to that type of thing. 99% of my peers would say the same.
Disturbing "Sonic Trend" showing up on SOTA audio
Exaggerated high frequencies and etch = "details"
Biting unnatural attacks = "fast transient response"
Unnaturally dry bass = "taut" and “tight”
This is what I hear at shows, homes, and stores, over the last several years!
Have "new" audiophiles lost their way, in relation to what "natural sound" of "non-amplified acoustic" music sounds like?
This "type" of sound is increasingly selling as current "State of Art".
Audio has more BS, and nonsense, than any hobby that I know of!
And as "Crazy" becomes acceptable, it drives more "Crazy".
I have been in this hobby since the 70's and heard it all.
Maybe those that kept their older systems, and got off the "marry-go-round", of latest and most expensive is best, are the most intelligent!