I assume you mean "horrible" due to its size, rather than color? Because, I have a feeling that gold color scheme of CA02 has probably something to do with this
, though I could be wrong
In terms of the size, it's no different than other adapters that cost 5x-6x more like this EA adapter
And the CA02 adapter itself doesn't look that bad
Regarding AMP4 4.4mm socket and its compatibility with different plugs, I suspect there are a few sources that manufacturer it with a slight difference in tolerance spec. I have a number of cables with 4.4mm termination, half a dozen of 2.5mm to 4.4mm adapters, and two DAPs with 4.4mm termination (WM1Z and DX200 w/AMP4) and some have no issues while others reguire headphone connector to be pulled by a hair to make a perfect contact. Something like a washer will do the trick. I'm also thinking, one of those 3-hole binder reinforcement hole stickers will work and they already have a sticky side:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IBUZ
Any mechanical part with have +/- tolerance built into the spec, that's where all the variation comes from.
Regarding the length of the adapter, yeah, it sticks out cause of Pentaconn part. You have an extended longer/thicker connector outside and also longer part inside where you solder the wires to 5 terminals, plus you need 2.5mm socket. Such single piece adapters are the most durable, but at the same it sticks out too far with a cable plug attached and you have to be careful not to break/bend it. An alternative is to have pigtail adapters, similar to CA01
These pigtail adapters kind of "extend" the cable. But you have to keep in mind, you are adding a different type of wire to your cable. CA01 is made out of the same conductors as the pure copper cable of IT01. I mean, we could be splitting hairs here, but some purist want to have pigtail adapters with the same wire material as the cable itself. Why adapter instead of direct 4.4mm termination? Because there are only a few portable sources with 4.4mm termination while majority still have 2.5mm. It gives you flexibility of using either one with a convenience of an adapter. Just a matter of picking which adapter you would like to use.
I haven't explored too many angled adapters, besides the one which comes with MEE Audio cable, but it was a little bulkier than I expected with cable connected. I like the one posted above from Japan, gotta look into it, looks very compact.
if it’s any consolation, I’m waiting for Amp 4 also and having to wait until April now 
but just got the CA Vega, running out of Amp 3 with the CB13 cable.....wow, this will keep me happy for a while. Most of my cables are balanced so I’m just going to wait. Keep the faith, you can do it
