Yeah - I'm a big cherry wood fan too. But, on closer inspection, that Vermont Maple is pretty sexy too. I just love those dark, reddish wood tones. I think that they make furniture etc. look rich.
Sorry - I haven't seen either of them. But, I don't think you can go wrong.
On two side notes - I think that darker is better for speakers (helps them blend in better), and since most speakers are black, they wont' look out of place if they are darker than some of the other wood in your home.
Second - if it makes your wife happy, it'll probably make you happy. It's more fun having someone rooting for your project with you, IMO.
Go with the Maple.
