I think that for me its about both the music and the equipment. As long as my system is working well, which is most of the time, I don't meddle; It is there for the enjoyment of music. Sometimes by myself, but often with friends or family. I like to be so engaged by what I am hearing that I forget that the music is coming from the boxes in my lounge. However, when I do decide to change a component it can be like opening a can of worms! Until I get everything working in harmony again then "the hobby" becomes obsessive about the equipment! Critical listening, reading (through) all the reviews, forums, research, borrowing, trial and error. It can be an enjoyable process, but also a task that can take considerable time. For me, its important to reach a point of satisfaction, draw a line under it all and refocus on the music - until the next time!