Do you listen to your heart or your eye?

I don't usually make a point to specifically disagree with another reader's personal opinion, but I will make an exception with Marakanetz' comment about the Vandersteen Model 5's. I think the Vandy Model 5's are an exceptionally attractive speaker, with clean, functional lines, and absolutely first-class cabinetry. They also produce outstanding sound quality, which make them a doubly fine buy. The Vandersteens do not benefit by playing with their grills removed, so I can't imagine why anyone would even consider doing so.

Happily, differing opinions is what keeps more than one speaker or audio electronics company in business, so Marakanetz is welcome to his point of view...

...still I believe that most wives will complain about looks especially if it takes so much space as Vandy 5 or Tannoy Westminsters or Churchhills.

Is both really. You have to like the appearance of what you buy. Its like that with cars too. I recently listened to the Sophias and the Watt Puppys. I liked the look of the Sophias better, but the Watt Puppies sounded better to me and when the chips are down, I wouldn't be satisfied with the Sophias after hearing the others.

Sd; thanks for saying it for me. And BTW, I listen with the grills on. Also, the V5s fit very nicely into my room/stereo system. It may be a cliche', but I'd defend Marakanetz' right to express his opinion-- this is America-- too bad he's wrong though;>) Cheers. Craig

I think appearance is crucial if the speakers are imposing and in your main room,which is probably most people's situation however of course thare are those who only consider functionality.
Nobody can be wrong either way.
It's clear in ALL hi-fi that design and looks are given serious consideration by manufacturers.
And as we see from above when aesthetics become involved then the viewpoint is obviously subjective-it at least made me investigate how Vandersteen 5's look-but I'd prefer to keep out of this one.......