How about just trying some different stains to lighten and/or darken the finish as needed? This seems like it should be a relatively easy, or at least not impossible, fix. As always, I am completely open to the possibility that I am dead wrong.
Appearance of Totem Forest
I need some help with a serious WAF problem. We purchased some new Forests recently in cherry. The wood on each speaker (especially the sides) is quite mismatched. Vince at Totem says they match the fronts and that's it. I'm concerned it could affect resale value. Any comments?