Yeah, I think they sound great. I use mine as my primary speakers. I really haven't been interested in chaning anything for a long time as far as speakers. I am continually fiddling with amps/preamps/whatever. I have heard Cains at audio shows so they were not in their prime setup, the rooms were way small, so I really shouldn't say anything about Cains.Finish is simple, and actaully very stylish. The finish is quite durable mine have been moved between 3 houses without a scratch. If you wanted them unfinished I am sure you could get that arranged.
I use a pair of 2A3 monoblocks, a silly little powerwave amp, and a big old heathkit as my power. The speakers are scary revealing and I have been really happy with them.
If you live in the midwest you are welcome to swing by and give a listen. Kris