What is a "reference" system?

IMO, a “reference” system is just the one you have that you compare any new component, cable, footer, etc to.  If you have multiple systems, it’ll typically be the one you’ve put the most time into getting it to sound the best to you.  

Each of us has a reference system as it has zero to do with price of the components, their newness, or anything of the like.

Dekay, thanks for that! Well, if it’s good enough for James Mason, it’s good enough for me.

What kills me is that I have visited the homes of some of the old codgers...err members on this board, and you know what? They have all of this scratch but are buying old grape juice. Like real old! I’m talkin’ decades here. Well none of that for me. I want fresh hooch, absolutely fresh, like bottled last week. Then again, you see some of their hifi rigs and you know why they can’t afford fresh wine.

It all depends I what you are “referring to”. 
so you live high-volume outdoor venues, intimate jazz clubs, large auditoriums. 
can your system reproduce this in your living/music room?

if so, then you can say, “I have a reference system”. 😉

This thread caught my eye was because of an experience I had talking to a salesman on the phone about ordering an audiophile fuse to upgrade my system. I told him about my system and asked about the difference between one fuse and another that was more expensive. He told me that the more expensive one was for a “reference system.” I just let it go but it bothers me to this day…..what exactly is a “reference system? “ So, if the system you have is not a reference system, then what is.? I think most of you are answering that question, so thanks and may each of us enjoy our reference systems.  

Funny:

I prefer young bourbon and also young wine that has seen little if any "wood".

If you shop @ TJ's look for a couple of inexpensive "screw top" wines that have either a pig or a zebra on the label.

One is a Grenache blend and I forget what the other/cheaper one  is.

Both are quite good when left open in a glass for hours and/or given a quick jolt in a blender.

DeKay