2. misc-audio
  3. 161484-2720

Why is black so popular for components?

A current post about the looks of gear got me thinking. How did black become the most popular color for audiophile gear? I can see it being popular for home theater where the gear might be at the front of a room where you want it as dark as possible but black was the color of choice well before home theater. Maybe it is as simple as people just like it but if that were the case I would think it would also be the most popular in other consumer items such as motor vehicles.  I remember when I wasn’t always fortunate to have a dedicated stereo room and my wife would ask me why I purchased black equipment because she thought it was ugly and I agreed with her but usually, I had no choice.  For manufacturers offering additional colors may be costlier but I am willing to pay for it. Fortunately , some companies that I like offer silver usually in the face plates which works for me. Odyssey Audio has numerous color options available for their faceplates for a nominal fee but as far as I know they are an exception.  A lot of speaker manufacturers offer different colors which is great, especially if you have to place them in a communal space like a living room.  So in summary why did black become the color for stereo gear ? How many of you would prefer color options?

128x128lwin
cd318
2,636 posts
 
It must be cost, and like the OP I too would pay extra for different finishes.

Anything but black. And no sharp corners either.

Looking back I'd say the late 1970s were the period for the most stylish designs.

Remember those Japanese tuners and tapedecks with their beautiful backlit VU metres and displays?

This chap certainly does, and also offers a decent impression of the human riff himself, 'Keef' Richards.

--------

Audiofiles. Can you hear a sound improvement (straight away)?

https://youtu.be/p-ZKBSlydJs
mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,229 posts
 
It is probably based on marketing studies. I like black because my system doubles as a theater and you do not want anything reflection lights.
There are companies that beg to differ. Accuphase does gold and I think their stuff is very attractive. 
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,891 posts
 
Because it looks nicer than magenta, yellow, and cyan.   Not to mention blends into most decors easier than red, blue or green.

White, black, and all shades of grey in between are where its at baby.   Ask any home decorator.
rsf507
2,238 posts
 
Hey @jjss49 how do you know? Personally? :-)
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
In fashion they have a saying, adapted here to answer your question:
Black is the new chrome.
Chrome is the new brushed aluminum.
Brushed aluminum is the new wood.
More to discover