Entwisi the problem is once you have heard a REALLY nice full and rich sound, You compare everything else to it

And I probably am using slightly rose coloured glasses through my memory

I remember changing from cassette to cd in my car, I had a fully active system in my car seven pheonix amps alpine controls and head unit, Just under 1000 watts rms. And there was more feeling and emotion from a metal tape recorded from vinyl than a CD, but cd was easier cheaper.
I want to hear what the mike hears in the studio when I am listening to music, Fussy ****** I hear you say.. can't help it
But I have just a little denon setup with celestion speakers and NO record deck at home, Neighbours limit me
So yes I have been dragged along with "advancements" but am not sure they are "better" Easier for sure..
Vorlon........ My record deck in my car was a cassette deck with a good tape recorded from a good vinyl system.. But yes am on CD's because of cost, ease etc (but not ultimate sound for me)..