You could also opt for some sheets of luan plywood or similar with whatever stain you decide upon, in place of the veneer as sometimes the veneer can get pricey. Actually, imo, it might look nicer to compliment the speakers with a slightly different coloured stain on the wall to give some contrast vs trying to match the wall to the speakers.

As far as paint goes, flat burgungy, plum, hunter green, slate blue......lots of choices.

Half of communication is listening. You can't listen with your mouth.