How Long Has It Been Since You Listened To Live Music?

I wonder how people can compare sound of their systems to live shows when sound of life shows is often poor.  In many venues it is hard to get good seats because they are very expensive, sold out,  or reserved for season tickets.  Sound settings for infrequent performers are often hit-or-miss.  John Mayall played in my town's small concert hall (cap. 500).  His piano was too soft and the bass was too loud.  Mayall had, to talk from the stage to sound people (middle of the concert). In addition some places not designed for audio/concerts have horrible acoustics.  A lot of bands play mostly at the stadiums.  Rolling Stones at Soldier Field in Chicago sounded pretty bad.