I totally agree that Toddwj should contact VPI of course, and I have no doubt Mike or someone will take care of him.
But I don't think it's cool to slam him for posting a fact, unless of course you think he's making it up. Those reactions sounded rather defensive to me.
Toddwj's post is a potentially valuable heads-up to other present and potential JMW owners. Isn't that what this forum is for? I've posted problems about several audio components - sometimes with a solution, sometimes looking for one, sometimes just as an FYI. I've never gotten slammed for it.
Why should VPI or any manufacturer be "protected" from a public discussion of a physical defect? If they handle the situation well I presume Toddwj will post a followup with a happy ending. If they don't...