How important is component “aesthetics” to you?


Obviously, performance, sound, etc is what matters most. However, some super fine, high performance products are just plain ugly. Aesthetcs does play an important role for me since we have placed a lot of emphasis on furnishing our home. 

Anyway, my search for a preamp has led me to the conclusion that ugly is more the norm. I love the look of glowing tubes with the Primalunas, mystere, Atma-sphere, Rogers, Decware, mapletree etc. In the solid state world, the macs have those famous blue meters. Even the “fake tube” older Peachtree components looked really nice. 

Just curious how “ looks” play a role when choosing components?
aberyclark

Showing 2 responses by tablejockey

My listening session would never include staring at speakers that aren't up to snuff in the aesthetics department. I find it offensive to see plastic bits on $5K+
speakers  and gear.

Speaking of aesthetics, some of those system pics in the gallery are horrendous!
I wouldn't feel comfortable in some of those rooms.

I like looking at fine furniture grade veneers and nice CNC casework. Aesthetics should be part of the audio experience with all the money we dump into this silly hobby.

On the flip side, there's gear which show corners cut in the details, but sound great.
aberyclark-
This is where my S.O. would assert her authority on what's not gonna happen

https://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=AwrTcXg3EtFZFQUATeqKnIlQ;_ylu=X3oDMTIyNjg1bW9rBHNlY...
I have this brand, but one of the little sisters, waaay  down the food chain.

I  would love to have those crammed into my listening space.
The PL  mentioned,gets the "aesthetically approved" nod.
I have the Dialogue HP.