It's interesting to note that those doing most of the "bashing" on Mac gear have never owned it, which disqualifies them from even making a judgment. All brands have their followers and haters of their products. Once you understand that NO brand of gear is going to replicate the real thing, then it's time to start listening to products that make the listening experience pleasurable to YOU. Some of the "reference gear", while being state of the art, may not be your cup of tea.
Personally, I like their gear for the most part, and I do own it. I will agree with some who have stated their cd player's reliability problems, and can speak to that too. I won't own another cd or universal player from them, as they never get the bugs worked out right. But their preamps and amps do really well, especially the newer ones. I've had other products whose sound always had me on edge, and I never listened to them for very long. But the so-called Mac sound is pleasing to my ears and I always have a pleasurable time in listening nowadays. And looking at the gear in a darkened room, well, I like that too.
Whatever Mac is doing, it must be pretty good, and their sales will attest to that. Some have commented on the fact that they have been owned by several offshore companies since Frank and Gordon passed on, but some have really helped Mac in providing needed funds to provide a better product. Being able to get advanced equipment in cutting the glass faceplates with water-cutting lasers has been one big improvement. I do think they are trying to be a "something for everyone" company lately, but all-in-all, they will be around when most other companies are just a memory of the past.
