The balance IMO has to do with the parts in the components you are using. They are usually lower grade resistors and capacitors. PLUS the AC filtering is usually non existent. You can filter AC noise with filter chokes and that usually provides more clarity and reduces noise that impacts harshness. Then upgrading capacitors in the power supply also adds to that benefit. Cleaning up the noise usually provides more clarity and detail without the harshness. Capacitors like V-Caps usually provide greater separation of instruments and vocals in my experience so you get better images and better soundstage. These improvements are a much cheaper way to go that cable changes, room treatments, etc. PLUS they are consistent with system changes.
Happy Listening.