For me, the CRT is the centerpiece of my setups. Its not the same without it.
I have an rca 20" , Samsung 14", and a sansui (orion) 27". All have component. And a Sony wega projector TV that actually has the best projector TV picture ive seen.
I just gave my trusty 26" Sharp to a friend. Had her 20 years. Only had composite though. Great sound.
None because modern CRT shaders are awesome on emulators, and real consoles are clunky and break down.
Real console are perfectly fine if you know what you are doing, also not necessary at all to enjoy a CRT (but suggested).