I've been reading that thread. I've also seen the Salk speakers up close and personal and the workmanship was excellent. They are always an A+ as to the finish.
For me, I want my components to co-exist with the furniture, drapes, artwork etc. I simply enjoy appreciating the aesthetics of the equipment as well as the sound. It is what I call the HAF..........
It's the same with my landscaping. I enjoy the beauty of my back yard and water feature whereas my neighbor could care less about any of that. I've always been a believer that my gear can sound and look great and I'm willing to pay a bit extra for that.
Now shipping that across the ocean is going to cost a ton and I sure wouldn't do it. But if he does, well so be it. Also, I may keep the girlfriend...and make her work it off....so to speak. I would probably get rid of the dog. But over the years, I've ended up liking the (ex)girlfriend's dog a lot more than her. And even though she was initially very attractive, I later developed a severe case of coyote arm.
