Larry,
I spend 30%+ on the speaker overall, another 40%+ on amp and pre amp, and remaining on source and cables.
As for look, sex sells. Any speakers that are beautifully finished sell themselves, regardless of the color. One example is B&W 802 Nautilus. But nothing illustrates this statement better than Sonus Faber. They sell tons of walnut finish speakers, tons of stained maple speakers, and even "plain" piano black finish speakers. When the design is beautiful, choice of wood or veneer will only accent the look even more.
For non-audiophile, anything non-obstrusive is good and in-wall is even better. Success story ranges from Bose to Energy Take 5, you should get the hint. It's only the crazy audiophiles who are willing to spend the equivalent of a car on something imposing and create domestic danger for young children at home. I am one of them, but I have my dedicate listening room :) for now.
I spend 30%+ on the speaker overall, another 40%+ on amp and pre amp, and remaining on source and cables.
As for look, sex sells. Any speakers that are beautifully finished sell themselves, regardless of the color. One example is B&W 802 Nautilus. But nothing illustrates this statement better than Sonus Faber. They sell tons of walnut finish speakers, tons of stained maple speakers, and even "plain" piano black finish speakers. When the design is beautiful, choice of wood or veneer will only accent the look even more.
For non-audiophile, anything non-obstrusive is good and in-wall is even better. Success story ranges from Bose to Energy Take 5, you should get the hint. It's only the crazy audiophiles who are willing to spend the equivalent of a car on something imposing and create domestic danger for young children at home. I am one of them, but I have my dedicate listening room :) for now.