Unbelievable

But there is a fundamental difference in something that reproduces sound and that which produces this sound.  

On the surface, this appears to be a gross claim.  However a surprising number of individual aspects of the design of an audio component have an impact upon how that design sounds.

Materials used in the construction of a speaker cabinet can and do have an audible impact.  The finish of the cabinet can and does have an audible impact.  In fact, it was documented that different wood species and surface finishes did in fact have an affect the sonic qualities of the LS3/5a.

While something may have lost in translation, don't knock till you tried it so to speak.

Yamaha really made this statement:

Glossy black piano finish provides improved signal-to-noise performance

Makes sense.  A grand piano sounds way better than an accordion - I'm sure it must be the paint.  Bet it would be even further ahead if you put huge pucks of sorbothane under the casters......

I prefer the matte black finish. More tube-like sound.

+1 iopscri since the sound reflects off the surface of the speaker...maybe the finish can have an effect...advertising is irrelevant in the decision though...