Integrateds: Why do they all SUCK?

The OP probably can't afford a good one, hence all of the bitterness.

A re-occurring theme in these integrated units are these digital volume control schemes, usually some kind of electronically-controlled resistor ladder. Even very high-quality units everyone loves like the Esoterics use these. Virtually all solid-state integrated units use these things...from Simaudio, to Esoteric to Marantz to Luxman all the way down to Yamaha. Even the more boutique brands like Musical Fidelity...even Accuphase!

WHY??? Am I just being bigoted against these electronic line stages? Can these really provide the lushness and three-dimentionality you would expect out of a "proper" active class A line stage?

Study up on the design of the Ayre AX-5 Twenty. Then take a listen. You will be amazed.

Why oh why do people insist on enabling him?
The OP is single handedly responsible for some of the most absurd threads to hit these forums over last few months.
But you keep egging him on...
Too funny!