do translations matter?

obviously there are many many posts here that suggest it matters a great deal, (so many that the mods seem to find it redundant) but for hobbyist/casual readers how much does it really make a difference? translations into english commissioned by major publishing houses are usually done by peer-reviewed academics. not to suggest that academia doesn't have its problems or that it's some meritocratic system where the best are automatically rewarded, but due to the long history of research, criticism, translation, and back-and-forth with russian literates granted to english speaking institutions there does seem to be a high standard when it comes to translating. is there such a need for even first time readers to be so discerning?