SQ is huge. I never was able to enjoy classical much at all until my system got there. In the last year between Tekton, Townshend, and Soundsmith, now all of a sudden classical is compelling. Then in terms of records, put on a White Hot Stamper, Tchaikovsky 1812, holy cow now you're talking!
In Classical music the effect of SQ on appreciation
In classical music there are often many different versions of a single composition that you may own or listen to. How much influence does SQ have on your appreciation?
As a recording is an artifact in itself, the presentation of the sonic factor has to come into the equation as does the interpretation.
in Mahler, as an example, the orchestration is vital.
A recording that is just so-so interpretively may be very attractive to the listener because of the sterling sonics of the orchestra.
So, how much does the SQ affect your judgement?