Mixing or matching component brands

To start I prefer separate components because it allows me to upgrade and tweak my systems over time.  That said, I went with a Rotel preamp, amp and CD player in my main system.  I prefer the sound of a matched set of amp and preamp based on my experience.  It also looks cool stacked up together which is important after sound quality and usability to me.  Love the look of the black components with the blue lights.  I found Rotel was the best value for my budget.  Sound and features, looks, reliability and price. 

Matched components certainly have an aesthetic appeal. The last time I went with a matched amp, preamp and Cd player was a Classe system. Classes changed hands and with it came issues I didn't like. There was talk of them going out of business. Mixing components means fewer headaches. Right now, I need something from VPI. I understand they're having troubles. Hence my reason for not going with an exclusive brand

OP

mixing and matching is, in my humble opinion, the audio Synergy that one individual is searching for the ultimate configuration in one's Audio journey. It is Fun and $$$.

My take is, all manufacturers (the good ones) build their gear to synergies to each other, BUT that is their opinion and hearing. As an example, I heard a complete Mcintosh gear and I would say, they sound wonderful. However, for Me, my gear synergy is a level above the Mac setup I heard. As far as the $ amount, I am comparing close to apples to apples. I also would like to say Not all manufacturers are an expert in building all audio gears. some may be good at building amps, other speakers, etc. The only reason why one would like to go to a one manufacturer is that its a one package deal, one trust the quality and synergy of the company, easy on the support and just not that willing to undertake the audio journey. I have met a few acquaintances' who had an all-Mac gear, all PS audio and some have an all-BOSE gear (ha-ha).and said to me, they just want an all-in-one package. When they heard my setup, we all agreed that my setup is a level up, but they all did not want to undergo the years of me continually changing gear. plus the fact that the better half may not like the looks of not matching gear

In the end, I am a firm believer that mix, and matching gear is the ultimate solution. another player is your budget $$$, compromises are settled here. Mixing and Matching gear tailors the sound to YOU, the listener. 

Mixing and matching seems good on tight budgets, and maybe ideal for those who are willing to try many combinations of components to arrive at higher/ideal Sonics.

Many thanks to those who share their experiences so that we who are less experienced can benefit