Two Words for all you people that care about the looks of things: Audio Research
Some of the ugliest equipment out there that I would give my left arm to have.
High end audio does not = Art.
I am sick of everyone complaining about the looks. My wife really cares about the look of things and she thinks it is fine.
I think It is absolutely fine. I think Jeff Rowland and Mark Levinson stuff is gorgeous but I don't think there is much in the "Art" range below 3500$.
Sorry for the rant.