Depends on what the problem your trying to fix with EQ is. In some cases its worse but in other situations where its corrected vs. non corrected its quite the opposite.
The thought of a pure signal chain is great in a perfect room and system. Not sure how many of those there are around the world though, I'm thinking single figures at most.
Hmm... guess we'll have to disagree. Its such a wide ranging subject and there's so many iterations of system and room interaction that it really is difficult to suggest one and only one path is or isn't folly. I can see where your coming from but others including myself, have found merit in what you perhaps define as the antithesis of a correct playback chain. The really interesting part is directly comparing the two in your own room and with your own equipment. That's when things become clear and perspectives start to change. But after all that hot air, as long as your enjoying the music then little else matters.
