I wear reading glasses and over time they get scratched, blemished and scuffed. I rarely notice their defects until I replace them with new ones. Suddenly the world is crystal clear again and I notice what I had been missing.
I think stereo equipment, modifications and tweaks are similar. We grow used to a certain sound or performance level that includes many expectations, like a certain fullness in the bass or sparkle in the high end. We get used to things. Suddenly a new element is introduced. It could be as simple as cleaning connectors and plugs, or as extensive as a new amp or DAC, and music is new again, like the clarity of vision new glasses bring.
It's good to be engaged in our hobby, keeping up with all the latest kit and interesting tweaks, but it's also great to simply 'get used' to what we have and enjoy it for what it is, warts and all.
When the new comes along, it's that much more exciting.
