American Made Audio Unveils New Site For Made in USA Components
darkj, I understand how much work this is for you and was not challenging the list, just providing information. Pretty sure Merrill meets the "Assembled in USA" criterion but not "Made in USA." That doesn't make them anything less than a well-regarded company who manufacturers well-regarded products, just not "Made in USA." I believe the other company you are speaking of may be a speaker manufacturer that either misunderstood, or disregarded, the requirements for labeling goods as "Made in USA," depending on one's viewpoint. They have taken a lot of heat for the mis-labeling, particularly on one website from one outspoken east coast AV dealer and, from what I have read, they have owned up to the "misunderstanding." That company, and its owner, have a long-standing reputation for excellent products and outstanding customer service and they have never been known for anything but great-sounding, high-quality products, particularly for the cost. That may beg the question, what is the point of looking at this. I am more interested in who manufacturers excellent products, stands behind those products, and offers its customers excellent communication and responsive service. However, I am also interested in who manufactures and assembles products in USA, particularly considering the state of our economy and the loss of manufacturing in USA, and I appreciate your efforts. You have received some recommendations of excellent "Made in USA" companies from the folks here, like my Clayton Audio and SMc Audio recommendations, and you will likely continue to receive recommendations and feedback. I am sure it will take some work to get everything sorted out and wish you luck in that endeavor. |
@mitch2 - Thanks for the reply. I wrote a long thoughtful answere which for some reason didn't post here. Here's a short version. Based on my assumptions Merrill (and most other companies listed) fall under "Assembled in USA." No one should hold that against them. I wasn't talking about Aerial Acoustics, who make some terrific speakers out of imported parts. They used to say "Made in USA" but now correctly say "Designed and Assembled in USA." I'm talking about another company who I am not listing until they make accurate claims. Regarding "what is the point" - I can only answer for myself - and for me, I obsess over every detail of my system, including provenance. Others may have other reasons. It's an international world, for the better, and provenance is only one thing to consider, but for me it is very interesting and I know others care about it too. There was no good way to find American makers, now there is. I could see someone doing similarly for SET amps, or Lowther drivers, or some other point of interest. Look at the success of Head-Fi - just headphone coverage. I really appreciate all the recommendations! I didn't know how much I didn't know. It's also clear that most manufacturers don't understand the FTC guidelines - I think my work will help them with that, even if not all manufacturers may like it. But a better educated audiophile is good for the industry, in my view. |
Hi and happy Fourth of July to all. Thanks for adding Mark Levinson. Here is another suggestion: Wyred 4 Sound: https://wyred4sound.com/history |
