How Much Do Aesthetics Factor Into Your Decisions?

Sometimes, good looks can earn a product more respect than it deserves. Some of the Japanese receivers from the 70's commanded a lot of respect due to their good looks. The sound was FAR from great though. IMHO

@jnovak 

From what I read, McIntosh is a primary example.

WAF  rules in my house so I had a special hardwood cabinet made to house all of my equipment including 2 turntables, 2 monoblock Classe amps and all sorts of other electronic components. When not listening to music, the cabinet remains shut and being a nice piece of cherry wood furniture, adds a complement to my living room. However changing cables is a real pain(I didn't think about this when I had the cabinet designed!!!!)

Me never. Sound is all that matters.  Now having said that, I kicked the old lady out a couple years ago, so I no longer have to worry about WAF.

Depends on the room it's going in for me but, I guess the look/vibe of equipment plays a big part and weighs on my psyche when purchasing. No other explaination then for the 20yo Chord power/pre I just purchased. Looks incredible and rolled the dice on Chord after studying their reviews; was a great call. They play wonderfully! Oh, I gotta add something super annoying to me... people, when you post your pics showing you setup, or you post an add featuring your gear for sale, my God, PLEASE don't include your nasty-ass feet in the pics. It's vile, gross and no matter what you're trying to show or sell, it makes us all take a hard pass; it's disgusting. Just my opinion...