"- Where do we draw the line between constructive criticism and damaging feedback?"
The line should be at "Lied" If the manufacturer or the reviewer lied with intention to cause damage then there should be recourse. Otherwise not.
"- Is the courtroom really the arena for settling disputes over reviews, or should dialogue prevail?"
Dialogue first. If there is willful misrepresentation with the intent of financial harm then the courts should (assuming they are even honest any longer) adjudicate.
"- And crucially, what does this mean for the future of honest, independent audio reviews?"
I think independent reviewers remain encouraged and are not too worried about being bullied.
"So, fellow audiophiles, what's your take?"
Tekton managed to alienate and anger a LOT of well heeled informed consumers. Way to go you morons!
"Have you ever felt swayed by a review, only to discover a different truth upon listening?"
Yes- long ago I bought a ChiFi DAC that Thomas was raving about- a Suncoz. $500 in the toilet on that one. Ugh! "Learnt me lesson"
"Have you faced the ire of those who didn't appreciate your candid feedback?"
Nope- I'm a digital nobody- unless you count Audiogon. I have riled a few snowflakes by accident. Some people are just miserable and want you to join them.