The survival of the fittest.

Perhaps also, big money, history and diversification like JBL/Harmon. Not arguing sound as much as long term success. From little cheap items to the middle of the road, in cars, and onward to the Synthesis line. 

@ millercarbon
"Marketing- no discernable marketing. Unless you count word of mouth, which is excellent. " 

That’s not true! Tekton has a full page add in Stereophile and TAS every month!

The hi end audio market is weird.

Remember the Elac Adante series? Hot for a second.... now- FLOP! Dealers can't give away inventory.

Now they're at a  price worth looking at. When I heard them, I liked them. Just not at the asking price.

I stand corrected on the advertising. I don't read Stereophile or TAS, unless it happens they have something I'm interested in. Hardly ever happens. 

One of my first shocking experiences when shopping for good stereo back in 1990 was the number of what were to me totally no-name brands. This was back when I was reading Stereophile cover to cover, and everything else I could find as well. Looking back, its obvious I was brainwashed by marketing to disregard or at least not seriously consider stuff that sounded good simply because it was new and unknown.  
Live and learn. 

How long has Tekton been around?
Verdict is out as to long term success. 

Okay, I get it. This is one of those threads where the OP pretends to be interested in one thing (ie, "why certain makers continue to succeed") but its a bait and switch. Because the minute you answer all his vague list of possibilities he switches to "verdict is out as to long term success." 

News flash for you bud: the verdict as to long term success is always out. However long something has been around there's always more time so you can always say the verdict is still out.  

As for me? Over, and out.

It's not bait and switch and your circular argument could discount any discussion as to merit. Don't adhere dynamat to your brain thinking this is an attack on Tekton. Bose is more successful than Tekton. Why? Tekton sounds better as most would agree. It would be great if Tekton turned into Bose, or not? Another question but germane. Your experience in regard to the magazines is most illuminating.