[jeffnc]

I don't know, I've always disliked the heavy grain of Oak. If the cabinets were maple, I might consider leaving the natural wood.

Agreed. Oak and brass, out. Maple and brushed nickel and stainless, in. Or white and antique bronze.

And there are different versions. Good.
https://shard2.1stdibs.us.com/archivesE/1stdibs/121112/marvinalexander_SW//6/_DSC0183.jpg

Not so good.
http://marythekay.typepad.com/.a/6a0120a86d37ac970b0133f31de6ca970b-pi

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAIulSo_W...age+Light+Bulbs+Seed+Glass+Globes+Black+2.jpg


I understand the sentiment behind wanting to keep natural wood, but painted cabinets can look great too.
http://s3-media4.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/tkvHOODSqAxCWkTmOxmcgw/l.jpg

And it even allows more personal tendencies
http://housetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00000b9df/3ef3_orh550w550/kitchen-paint.jpg

http://www.goldeneagleloghomes.com/...lbums/Custom_Hybrid_Log_Home/kitchen_post.jpg

http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=101520

 

[jeffnc]

Use a satin white primer for light colors, possibly a satin black for darker colors.

I can't imagine any reason you'd want a satin finish over a flat for a primer.

 

[jeffnc]

is there even such a product?

Good point

 

[jeffnc]

When I bought my color of spray paint, I decided to stick with Valspar for priming rather than mixing paint brands. They didn't offer a Flat option in their tinted spray colors. Just a Satin.

Yeah, but that's not primer.

 

[jeffnc]

Flat paint, especially flat SPRAY paint from rattle cans is a poor choice for painting cabinets in my opinion.

The context was primers though.