I often notice that people who have open reel decks and/or tube equipment are nicest

That's because they have the most patience. 

@koestner not sure if you were serious but there is probably something to your suggestion.  

I was serious with a humorous tone. If they have the patience to spool up those tapes, and FF/RW to the spots they like, along with biasing the tubes and always keeping a watchful eye on them, not to mention a probable turntable with all those rituals needed to play, then they have a lot of patience and would be willing to help others.

I don't know about "nicer", but we're definitely warmer...