[Mike Dzurko]

This poll goes with the other poll, Cherry or BEM

Note, the Piano Black will be the least expensive finish, probably about $100 less than either wood.

[tomagardner]

I'm a satin black man myself.

[Joe_K]

Hi Mike,
Are you getting away from the inlaid Cherry? I do like the way it looks, although I can't recall how it looked on the Sapphire XL? Is there any pics around?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ACI-SAPPHIRE-XL-SPEAKERS-IN-EXCELLENT-CONDITION-L-K_W0QQitemZ250308556047QQihZ015QQcategoryZ3276QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Here's a Ebay link for a Sapphire XL in solid Cherry(ie not inlay) looks like intricate veneer work? The pics may have exposure overemphasizing the red Cherry, or is it stained? Or both?

So much seems to be Cherry, I voted for the BEM. Although I love the piano black, I can see others wanting natural wood finishes.

Joe

[Mike Dzurko]

I'm a satin black man myself.

Tom:

It is subtle and easy to keep looking good. This is also the favorite of the recording studios . . . .

[Joe_K]

I can picture the Sapphire XL w/inlaid cherry, nice looking speaker!
There is something I like about the inlaid look, it might be that you just don't see it often. Is ACI the only speakers with inlaid wood?
Joe

[timind]

I'm curious as to how difficult it is to get a good piano black finish. I've seen dome fairly pricey speakers with less than perfect finishes and wondered how they made it past QC.

[Mike Dzurko]

I can picture the Sapphire XL w/inlaid cherry, nice looking speaker!
There is something I like about the inlaid look, it might be that you just don't see it often. Is ACI the only speakers with inlaid wood?
Joe

Joe:

I also like the inlaid look. However, in previous polls and discussions with customers it became apparent that it was one of those looks that you liked or didn't. Eliminating the inlay makes the appearance more universally liked.

[Mike Dzurko]

I'm curious as to how difficult it is to get a good piano black finish. I've seen dome fairly pricey speakers with less than perfect finishes and wondered how they made it past QC.

I haven't done woodworking myself in many years, but I have worked closely with a number of fine craftsmen. A really good gloss finish, (whether over black paint or over wood veneer), takes a lot of work. The surface has to be extremely smooth before any gloss coats are applied. Clear coats must be applied lightly, evenly, and in a manner that prevents runs and drips. A lot of light coats will need to be built up for a great finish. Time consuming and costly for sure, but stunning when well done.

[lonewolfny42]

Mike...

This pole goes with the other pole...

What about this ...

I picked the piano black....love the high gloss.

[Mike Dzurko]

Mike...

This pole goes with the other pole...

What about this ...

I picked the piano black....love the high gloss.

Chris:

Great catch! Scary when you think that during the day I'm responsible for teaching elementary school kids reading, writing and arithmetic. 

[stereocilia]

Reminds me of the occasional ad for "Satan Black" equipment   

[Joe_K]

Mike,
Although I really wouldn't have any interest in this, I thought I may mention it as there may be a market for it?
One of the turntable mfgrs. offers plinths in about 10 different colors.  Since you're already doing gloss piano black, I wouldn't think it would be too difficult to change colors. Was there much interest in the pearl whites like SoundStage reviewed?
Just a thought,
Joe

[Mike Dzurko]

Mike,
Although I really wouldn't have any interest in this, I thought I may mention it as there may be a market for it?
One of the turntable mfgrs. offers plinths in about 10 different colors.  Since you're already doing gloss piano black, I wouldn't think it would be too difficult to change colors. Was there much interest in the pearl whites like SoundStage reviewed?
Just a thought,
Joe

Joe:

The Lexus Pearl White was pretty cool, but we sold less of it than I would have thought. We also considered a Ferrrari Red. Personally I'd love to be able to offer all sorts of finish options. We just need to sell whatever finishes we offer in enough volume to make it work.

[Joe_K]

Mike,
I understand making it work, just trying to come up with some ideas.
Joe

[Mike Dzurko]

Mike,
I understand making it work, just trying to come up with some ideas.
Joe

Thanks Joe, the more ideas the better!