Great topic
In my circumstance, it is all depends on my current state of mind.
With respect to the actual performance, if I can clearly feel (empathic) that the artist is really into his/her music whether it be a stage show or a music video, then the overall quality of the audio is not as important – the only caveat that I might add to this would be that the lyrics must not be “garbled.”
One other point with respect to a music video, sometimes these can be a hit and miss venture as we are viewing what the producer’s concept of the song is.
When I listen to music on my 2-channel system, it is only the artists and I. Interestingly enough, as long as the lyrics are clear – I am content
most of the time. If I can locate a more refined production, such as SACDs, I will purchase them. I was fortunate that the Dead Can Dance re-released their music in a SACD box set and had no issues what so ever with this purchase.
When you get an awesome recording playing on an awesome system, this is when the magic truly occurs. You
feel the slight tremor of the vocalists when The Last Dance preforms 51051, the pain of Ian Curtis singing "Love Will Tear Us Apart" or the haunting voice of Lisa Gerrard with the Dead Can Dance. This is the exclusive realm of cold shivers, of tranquility and of solitary tears.
It is all good.
Be well…