I hear what you’re saying. I currently own the best system I could put together. I also had a stroke a year ago (definitely causes me frustrations with things, including my hifi daily expectations), some days I love the Hifi some days I think what’s the next step to raise the level. I find some speaker adjustments always get me settled down, a small adjustment changes the sound I’ve become accustomed to. Not sure if it’s better but it is a different sound that reminds me I have a great system. I think I get so accustomed to my set up and sound, I get a little bit bored with it and start thinking what else do I need to buy. I’m retired so the last thing I need is a new piece of equipment, I spent the last 20 years getting my system to its current level, which I know is quite good. Don’t know if this helps you, but it’s what I’ve learned over the last few years. Going to Axpona doesn’t help me either, but it’s a fun time with my hifi buddies.
Has it all been worth it?
I recently turned 63, and I've been into all things audio since the mid 70's. In that time I've spent countless thousands of dollars chasing that damn rabbit down the hole. Solid state, vinyl, cassette, CD, tubes, big speakers, small speakers, pricy gear, cheap gear...been there, done that. Sitting here in my less than acoustically friendly office listening to a Hi-Res version of Angie by TRS this is probably the nicest stereo I've ever had. And even with my compromised hearing (bouts of tinnitus, and a stroke) I know the music sounds as good as it ever has, but yet I can't help but ask myself - has this journey all been worth it? The money, soul searching, reviews, disappointment in the review when it didn't live up to the hype, "am I missing out by not owning _____" etc. Sometimes I wish I were more like my wife who just bought a cheap shelf unit to listen to her CD's and is perfectly pleased with what she hears.
Anyone else find themself at this point sometimes?