I don't think it's hate maybe confusion? Many in the mid fi and casual audiophiles/music lovers segment view McIntosh as the "holy grail" of amplifiers. IMO they produce some great gear the MC452 and C22MK3 provide great value/sound for 2nd hand gear but are not considered close to being SOTA. If the MAC "fanboys" would admit they purchase MAC for resale value and aesthetics over sound quality the brand would become much less polarizing.
