I posted a shorter response after electing to conserve a longer one in a file, in case I wished to refer to it, or use it, if the discussion merited. It seems it is merited, so here are my original comments, which address the inquiry of Acesverde and Len067, and add a few extra thoughts. I add that often when I leave a thread discussion I do not return if I am busy. I have not attempted to avoid the topic of my Joule White speaker build.
Here is my preserved response to Bigshutterbug's post
To be fair, discussion on the Vapor circle of the Audiocircles has a locked thread by Ryan Scott of Vapor in which he addresses the long term issue of two particularly difficult customers who used up to five different monikers to make it appear that there was widespread displeasure with the company. It seems their intent was nothing less than the destruction of the company. The audiophile community in consideration of Vapor should have a balanced perspective as to such things.
In my review of the Vapor Nimbus White at Dagogo.com, and in my ongoing experience with Vapor the long delays in fulfillment are a legitimate problem. Instant response has not happened. I pointed out clearly that a customer must be wiling to accept such things. I also pointed out clearly that Ryan has ultimately completely fulfilled non-timing related expectations, and even exceeded them vastly in terms of the quality of the product, save for the response/timing issue.
For some individuals a lack of prompt response is the death knell for anything related to that company. For others, they understand the boutique nature of Vapor's business, and while they may not like delays, they ultimately accept them as part of that unique business's character. The problem as I see it is the delays are too long. I obviously do not enjoy delays, but I also have a high degree of confidence in Ryan's ability to eventually deliver. I have zero fear of his not delivering a stunning speaker both sonically and visually.
I know of background information about the growing pains of the company. I have a special version of the Joule under build which has taken longer than expected. Some of the delay has been "self-inflicted" due to my insistence on the speaker having all new upgrades and other collaborative changes I have asked for. Other delays have been related to Vapor not having its own heavy machinery (i.e. CNC) and being dependent upon other companies to fulfill orders. I have had to earn through patience my own reward in the final product, which I believe will be coming soon. I do not have money down, but a agreed with Ryan when the new pair was ordered, will trade in the Nimbus White speakers for the new pair.
Until such time as I have objectively solid information or personal experience warranting dismissal of a company I give the benefit of the doubt. I believe that some reviewers having to wait this long would have damned the company, but I am not wiling to, forcing myself to be patient as I already have tasted the fruit of Vapor sound and I am not wiling to turn aside from what I feel is an exceptional product due to delay. Vocal critics of a small company can have a crushing effect on the stability and viability of the company. Hostile entities can literally threaten the viability of such small enterprises. On the other hand, there are ecstatic reviews by elated owners; such things can offset each other, making it hard to know "the truth".
It is not my job to protect Vapor Audio, but as one who has more direct information of the situation, I feel the need to add to discussion such that as much general information both pro/con of a manufacturer is available to interested parties. I would hope that I were willing to do so for any audio company I have had interaction with facing a similar situation.
I wish for Vapor Audio to succeed, as I wish for all small audio businesses bringing good products, and to flourish. I care less about the politics of the situation than the availability of the products, and in the case of Vapor speakers, the products are exceptional performance-wise. In an audio culture where there is incessant bitching about expensive gear, Vapor puts out radically good sounding speakers at real world prices. I wish Vapor would get its act together in the communications department, but as I have said in my review, and now have lived, the wait, while frustrating, can have a gigantic payoff. Based on what I know of Ryan's skill set I fully expect it to.
One piece of information which is pertinent to the tenor of my comments; due to the nature of the pricing structure of Vapor speakers carrying an MSRP much closer to the bone of cost to build, I was not given a more typical, larger industry accommodation, but rather in line with discounts Ryan offers to the rank and file customer. I mention this to point out the significantly different philosophy Vapor has toward pricing of speakers for the audiophile community, as well as dispelling any suspicions that I somehow have benefitted unfairly from my association with Vapor.
Concluding then, there are sometimes individuals who simply disbelieve such things, and my response is typically, "So be it." If someone simply will not believe clear explanations, then it is their issue, as I do not make a habit of arguing my honest explanations. If anyone is wishing to enter into an argument with me about this subject, I am not interested in doing so. I have made my statement of my perspective, which can be accepted or rejected by all concerned. :)
