My .02... I've got the Epic 80 in standard Boston Cherry. Everyone that's seen them thought they were wood till I told them otherwise (probably shouldn't have now that I think of it ). Outstanding quality in construction. I even applied a leather conditioner to the finish to give them a more semi-gloss look, and was happy with the results. A deeper, richer color to them with a little shine. Go for the wood if you *must* have it, but in terms of value for your cash, the standard finishes look great and have the same astounding sound as their wood-clad brethren.

Good Luck!