How much reality do you really need?

Most people don’t have a audio system capable of extracting 
everything on the recording ,the source turntable or digital needs to be at least $5 k minimum to be able to extract all the information , then proper cabling, solid electronics 
and Loudspeakers without question ,most cannot even reach the last octave into even the upper 20 hz region for example  a full scale orchestra and hearing all the instruments in place on the stage That is complex , maybe 10% at best have a Audio system of this caliber and at least $50k on average .Currently I am saving for a reference quality dac $5-7k, Holo Springs KTE May dac, or Terminator+,and Loudspeakers you can get a great speaker for  under $10 k  if you are lucky , the Spatial audio X3 with powered Bass come to mind with VH audio Odam Capacitor upgrade, which if sold retail would be over $16 k.

Excellent post, realworldaudio; I couldn’t agree more. 

**** I find that _most_ current ultra-high end gear focuses too much on the enhanced resolution aspect, creating an illusionary sonic envelope that feels very much real, but also quite a bit different from the original source. It traps you in the superficiality, and shuts down the imagination, which is the exact opposite of what a live performance does. ****

What do you mean by real in this scenario you've set up? What are you trying to match? If you're asking can anyone reproduce the experience of a live full orchestra presentation in say Carnegie Hall  with their home stereo, no. If you're asking can a reproduction of a Jazz quartet in a venue of 75 people be done with their home stereo, no. It's not possible to capture the sound field as you hear it, can't be done with two channel . You can get closer with an immersive system but still no cigar.

Get real. My only ultimate goal is to enjoy music.
Reality blah blah blah.

The important thing is when you become happy with your system there is a time when that will happen and when it does the upgrades cease and you just listen for pleasure rather than worrying about how the system sounds if you are always worried about the sound you will drive yourself nuts.