I find the volume get past regrettable levels in direct proportion to alcohol consumed.  A good clean rig should shows detail without uncalled for edge. If you need to drink to enjoy your rig, then changes are likely in order.

I think mood an setting which are random, lend a lot more weight. Focus as well. If your reading it detracts focus. My best HP experiences have been laying down, tired enough for sleep and focusing on the space. Kept awake by the experience.

After many years of listening for pleasure, I've come to the conclusion that a little bit of [insert vice here] helps and a lot is detrimental. Use moderation, just like everything else.   

Well, it looks like we were right back in the 70's.  .  Just think of all the tech breakthroughs that occurred during that time period. And how huge an impact they have had on the world. Good thing they wrote it all down so they could remember it later. 

As to the first question. A little may help. Too much and the volpot goes up and up. Not good. I also notice that early morning is a good time to listen. While the world is still quiet and so is my mind.

hello,

it's only after everyone else has crashed that i have any time for tunes (at least with the open K7XX.)

Mrs. Forbin starts work crazy early and leaves the house around 0430. the children are on a strict sleep schedule and are lights out at 2100.

i drink more than anyone should (and do so in the evening), so its a glass and the Asgard 2 starting around 2100 as well.

i am very cognizant of the volume knob, i have already lost too much of my hearing to be a reliable source for sound impressions.

the cat is on an eight hour medication regimen so i need to stay up later than anyone else.

but then in my youth i could pull all-nighters. (sigh)

The better question is how important is sobriety for anything, really.