anyone else hate locking RCAs?

I agree. Locking RCA plug is a pain to use in tight space. Some how, I always tune them in the wrong direction.

I like them for several reasons. Some female RCA's vary in size and invariably, one of them is small and the male fits loose. Thus, the locking RCA can be a way to ensure the fit is consistent. They are a pain at times, but they can work. I prefer XLR connectors if given the choice.

Yes, I'm in agreement with the XLR crowd. Even if you don't realize any sonic benefits with balanced connections (with my equipment I definitely do), the connectors alone make them wortwhile IMHO. Unfortunately, they are not an option for all components.

It's interesting that the folks really like the connectors on the DHLabs Air Matrix. Those are the ones that give me the most problems, especially in the tight space of multi-channel analog input, as many have already metioned. They are nice cables, but the connectors are a huge issue for me.

I`m not too crazy about the locking rca`s either and this coming from a guy who uses Kimber Select. They are a pita if the preamp is crowded and one wants to change a cable or piece of equipment. I much preferred the connectors on the Cardas cables but then sometimes they would become loose. I`ve never had a problem with a loose connection using the WBT`s/NextGen. I agree with Ncarv. The trick is never get them too tight just enough to make a good connection and before inserting make sure you know which way to lock and unlock the cable. I much prefer the balanced connection.