How do you get the "real" feel of music?

Opinions are opinions. But, please keep ad hominems to a minimum.

I think sasha's main point is how the quality of components is secondary to how critical tacit knowledge/experience is to making hifi sound good. And, this is something I severely lack but am trying to make up for by experimenting like a mad man with wires wires wires!! and some components and other accessories ofcourse.

Funny thing is, I used to design and install home theater systems for the "rich and famous and they worshipped me" too. But, as I have quit that boring industry and have more time to concentrate on my own hifi system, I seem to run into more walls. I can't seem to make my system *click*. I am not sure whether it is because I have a more objective mind when I am spending other people's money or I am just too critical of my own system thus I lose my ability to just enjoy the music.

I must also say, I was under 17 when I started selling this audio stuff and my colleagues were all over 40 with some over 60. I would say their approach were totally different than mine. I sold the components based on technical specifications and the clients' needs, and the elder guys sold themselves.