what kind of audiophile are you ?

I thought there were only two types

Those who have found Shangri-La (just playing music and thrilled every time)

Those who have not (changing gear each year, tweaking, planning upgrades etc.)

It is all in the mind. As far as sound quality, some focus purely on differences whilst others know what they are looking for. Some listen to the sound of reviewers hype and equipment aesthetics more than what their ears tell them is correct.

Timbre refers to the sonics of a single instrument and believe it or not it's root is the Drum think tympanny

Mechans...good one! I will be interested how Mr Tennis can reconcile his love for timbre and Quad ESL 57 when this speaker sorely lacks ability in this area.