Does your amp/preamp/int amp have to look good?

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If it sounds beautiful, it looks beautiful.

However, if two different units sound the same, I'll take the better looking one every time. That's why some audio mfgs offer custom finishes at a higher price for those audiophiles that want to look good too.

I remember when the Infinity Renaissance 90 speaker came out. The factory colors were black oak, blonde oak and golden oak. A piano black finish was available that doubled the price of the speaker. It was gorgeous. And of course they sold a few of the piano black model.
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Ehh, I don't think my decware torii looks particuolrly pretty. And my Audion preamp is uber gaudy, but they sound great together.

Yes! In my case my stereo is in my living room and I like everything to look neat. I just replaced all of my equipment for a Rogue preamp, amp and phono preamp. I like the clean design and they sound great to. I get the best of both worlds in my opinion

It will look good if it sounds good. You'll find some rationale to make it work.
If it sounds bad, the looks will fade. Kind of like all relationships.

I got it. If wife sounds good the equipment should look good too.