I love listening to well-recorded music on my rather capable stereo or good headphones, but it just doesn't provide the same rush and sensation of seeing the actual musicians, live in concert, at a proper concert volume on a good live sound setup, handled by competent sound techs.

Over the last I-have-no-idea-how-many-years, I've averaged 3-4 concerts per month, and 3-4 festivals per year, and I've experienced both garbage tier gear/sound and the exact opposite -- concert experiences that bordered on religious experiences.

I especially appreciate small intimate venues, where you get right up close to the musicians and can really interact with them. The energy you feel in those situations is just second to none.

My musical niche as a listener is metal, primarily death and thrash. YMMV obviously, depending on genres and available venues. But for me, going to live music shows on a regular basis is absolutely essential.