Anyone else prefer listening to their system more than a concert?

For me, actually deciding to go to a concert (of any type of music), my first consideration is if l respect the artist, or artists that are performing. Sometimes it can be the conductor of the orchestra that over rides even the music performed.

There is nothing quite as thrilling as hearing a 100 piece orchestra conducted by the actual composer, who best knows how the music should be performed.

The same applies to a pop or rock group if the original members are still present to reproduce the songs as intended, or add embellishments and refinements they have adapted to over the years. Often the degree of professionalism and musicianship has matured over the years too, and the performance now is far more refined. 
 

Those are the two main reasons why l will still selectively attend live concerts. Of course the original records or CDs remain the original focus point as to why l liked the music, and those first impressions. I like the best of both worlds.

Great post! I prefer my system at home. 2 exceptions; 

Iron Maiden - seen them 5 times. My very first concert when I was 15, and then again at 50. They were actually better this last go round. You cannot CANNOT create anything close to the mesmerizing energy that Maiden brings to their performances. Hypnotic as anyone who has seen them knows. 
 

TSO - just saw them Black Friday in Manchester, NH. We go every year and again the energy and the show they put on cannot be recreated.

Other than that, I’m perfectly content at home one on one with my system for many of the same reasons listed above by other members

I love both. The type of live gigs I have attended (and played in) over the decades are different than the larger concerts. Here  the musicians lug in their gear. They set it up. Everyone collects and the band plugs in and shortly thereafter lets it rip. It’s about passion, energy and pure exhilaration.  I love it. 

I don’t like live music, it doesn’t sound anything like the realism of my stereo system.

@ghdprentice  It’s unreal when they do that. I used attend a small club where local jazz bands played with no cover. Retired dudes, part-time music teachers. Live instruments. Massive dynamic range. Simply wonderful. Then the owner, with the best will in the world, installed those atrocious speakers with piezo horn tweeters. On stands. The sound was utterly destroyed. The color and soul eradicated. Loud, brittle, monochromium garbage. They do the same in our town when bands play on the village green in summer. I hate unnecessary amplified music with a passion.