Raw vs. Produced

One of the great mysteries of life: Why does a song sound so different through a different set of speakers?

I've been listening to a demo of a new song I wrote last night for hours -- to satisfy the perfectionist in me -- and thought it sounds okay enough. Then I test it out on my stereo speakers -- just to hear a "fuller" output, not that my recordings are stereo anyway -- and I cringe to hear many prominent off-key parts that I never knew were there before.

Gosh. At times like these I'm stuck on whether to preserve the integrity of the original performance, or to produce it to increase its quality. As much as I like raw honest vocals, I do sound more professional produced. (Compare a "live" performance with a studio recording.)

It's like Photoshop for singers.

Like a girl with makeup. Wearing a push-up bra. And hair extensions... with highlights. Whatever.

Raw or produced, which one would you prefer?