Comparison of two systems

[PHC1]

So I thought it would be neat to compare and contrast a case of two systems.

The obvious goal is to reach some pinnacle of audio nirvana. Do we get carried away in our quest? That is the question... You be the judge

Both are obviously my own, one from 2012 and one from today. Worlds apart in price.

Playing the same track of Ramsey Lewis Trio. Track 5, "Air from Suite #3"

Video number 1.
Wilson Alexia speakers, D'Agostino Momentum monos and I believe I was using a Krell S1200 as a preamp at that time. CD Player was the fantastic EAR Acute tubed CDP. Room fully custom built and fully treated to the tune of $20k for just the treatments. All together the system and room were over $150k easily. All Transparent cabling costing as much as an entry level automobile...

https://youtu.be/Ota9Qf9OY14


Video number 2.
Harbeth 30.2. PrimaLuna Dialogue HP. Bryston DBP Pi used as streamer. Roon for streaming instead of CD playback. Cables are a mix of entry level Transparent and some mid line WireWorld IC's.
Room completely untreated.
Cost 1/7 of the other system, under $20k.

https://youtu.be/oKU56PTsyNU


So the question is, do we tend to go overboard with our quest? I know the amount of satisfaction each system brought. Being completely honest, I derive no less satisfaction from system number 2. Ok, it is not as "Cool" but hey, it is some $130k cheaper too!