The neat thing about any hobby is this.... When it comes to descerning quality.. you're the judge and jury.
or you should be.
If what you mean is which measuring stick should be used, that's another subject. many go with the attempt to emulate live music. Some shoot for imaging and ambient retreval. some like it wet, big andd fat... Many choose sheer neutraility across the board.
Reality, or the illusion of it with the addition of platable ease and flow are my preffs. If there's to be a compromise with regard to neautraility, I'll lean towards warmth... albeit not by a lot.
I don't think there truly is a Holy Grail in any facet of this hobby... as to cables, preamps,sources, etc.
Some good road signs that one is headed in the right direction IMO, are
A broad smile on your face when the music is playing
Knees bobing up and down
Toes tapping
turning it off is not a predominant thought
Goose bumps
Jaw on floor
Numerous bruises from repeated pinchings, stemming from
constant disbelief.
Anxious desire to hear more of the collection
Continued yawning throughout the day from lack of sleep due to extensive listening sessions.
Results will vary of course.
The real trick... the key to all this IMO, is being happy with what you have, rather than looking towards that next addition to your system as being the magic pill that will supply it to you.
Look at the virtual systems posted here, and the threads pertinent to the pieces within them. get out to dealers and audition some things. Attend live shows. Pay attention to properly matchintg components, with regard to one another.
you'll be fine i'm sure... mostly though... enjoy listening to the music.
