So shallow to value looks over quality of sound. I heard the Acora speakers at the 2022 Axpona in Tampa. I almost walked past the giant room with the two diminutive speakers until I heard music coming from them. They sound spectacular.
I was using Yamaha gear in the 1980s up until I heard an ARC preamp. The Yamaha gear was very attractive and sophisticated looking. I recall at the time thinking about how plain the ARC preamp looked in comparison. A flat silver face, four knobs, a couple of green lights and some toggles that didn't really compare to the more flashy gear at the time- and some with colorful fluorescent displays. I grew to appreciate the industrial look and incredible sound. ARC preamps' beauty is on the inside.
I'd say you can't see the gear in the dark but my system has so much resolution and detail that it creeps me out if I try to listen in total darkness now. It feels like people are moving around in the room.
Agree that everyone has different tastes. ARC is a force and major player in the Hifi industry- of that there is no doubt. We have lost too many icons in Audio already. Hate to lose another.
