How important is spending time with your gear?

To quote King Crimson: "Music is our friend."

To quote Delmar (Tim Blake Nielsen) in "O Brother, Where Art Thou": "I just don't think we should have to keep him under wraps, like we're ashamed of him."

"with no audible downsides" 

I like the thought of this hidden or invisible system.  Including the speakers.  Yet still have every aspect of great audio, sure.

My reality is very much the opposite.  So, my system must sound good when On and look good when Off.

I heard of this guy with a system in his van!  Rat's nest of wiring and clutter.

The OP's opening statement, which includes "with no audible downside" is the fundamental basis of this discussion.

If we're looking for "right" and "wrong" answers here, I think we might be on the gas just a little too early exiting the turn.

Mixed/multiple motives is not heresy, nor is it unique to high performance audio.  When your kids (or, grandkids) are screaming for ice cream as you approach the 117 Flavors, you agree to stop.  Is it: a) you just want to shut them up, b) you want ice cream yourself, c) you love them and want to make them happy, or d) an old high school flame is the proprietor and you want to take the chance that they are on duty?  Or, is it "b" and "c" or "a" thru "d"? Or, even "e"?  Does an aggregate of multiple factors elevate the "licks per minute" factor?

Having an audio system that pegs the needle on the "feel good" meter on more than emotional level can have an accumulate effect on the overall listening experience for SOME listeners.  Others may feel zero attachment to the gear itself and it's ALL about the music.  Either way, the listener gets what THEY want.

For some strange reason, I'm feeling the urge to paint my Audi with gray primer and replace the premium wheels and tires with some Grand Marquis police intercepter black steel wheels and hubcaps.  Thanks, Eric.

Remote controls make hiding equipment impossible for me. Enough said!

The jungle of black boxes staring at me is not so appealing. 
I DO like the appearance of my speakers though. 
Just having sounds emanating from them would be fine for me.