Fidelity vs. Musicality...........Is there a tug of War?

Another vote for musicality. I've learned to be very careful seeking better detail and accuracy. For me, anyway, it doesn't always lead to a more engaging listening experience.

The guys who mix and master good recordings are a little like chefs - it isn't about making every ingredient obvious, it is more about the blend that makes something musical - in my opinion. 

I think it is impossible for anyone to know if their system is reproducing a recording exactly as the recording engineers, mixers and mastering labs intended. There can be just as much "art" in that part of the recording process as the performance. As a matter of fact, I have watched very talented engineers mix a track and it IS a performance.

I forgot to add something to my earlier post. Since my goal for my system is musicality, I see no need to focus on measurements or double blind testing of equipment. I get joy from experiencing the music. I wouldn't get any joy from gathering data to let me know if my system is accurate. That is a complete waste of time for me.

Cheers.

The terms are properly seen as synonyms, not antonyms.

Agree with Douglas and Frogman. Fidelity is musicality.

Musicality is a fine alternative but then you shouldn't use terms like high fidelity. Fidelity implies truth in reproduction and then good recordings will be musical and bad recordings will sound lousy.

"When you go to a live, unamplified performance, of a small jazz group, or even a symphony orchestra, do you sit there and say to yourself ... "Oh my God! ... listen to that detail?"

Music first. Fidelity second."

Frank (@oregonpapa),
There are some really thoughtful responses posted on this thread but you nailed it beautifully! As we both understand that these two characteristics are not mutually exclusive. But given the context and framing of the OP’s question you hit the bullseye.

BTW Frank a few years ago after an enjoyable discussion about our frequent attendance at live jazz venues you took the time to send me CDs of some of your favorite jazz musicians (T. Monk, Cal Tjader, Milt Jackson et al). I still listen to them on a very regular basis. Thanks again my friend 😊.
Charles