So, mtoc, it sounds like Atmosphere makes a solid product. Some of his products have more tubes than I can count, but I wouldn't blink at owning one and as your have heard, the Owner Ralph Karsten is a stand up guy and will certainly stand behind his product. It seems like this could have been a rough thread on you personally, but the short answer is.... Don't be leery of an Atmosphere product, They're Quality Goods.
Wolfe, were you ever a comedian? Did you do a stand up in the middle of your shows? I bet you said some things live that you wish you hadn't and I bet that was funny.
I hope all of this helps, Tim