Of course it isn't the instrument that's obtrusive - it's the player. Over the years I've found that even a whistle can drag a good session down (not to mention the bloody shakey eggs/bodhran brigade) but can recall having great sessions with saxes, double bass, electric bass, keyboard and any number of brass instruments.
I don't think there are any acoustic instruments which can't be played quietly and tastefully and electric instruments have volume knobs. Unfortunately it's the knobs behind the instrument that can't be controlled.

BTW Anahata - How dare you question my spelling - I have a dictionary right here in front of me and it states quite categorically . . . oh sorry, you're right. And the Lancashire ones are still gas powered (since they closed the coal pits).