I think it comes down to the simple reality that audiophiles are in general a very insecure group. Many like to think that whatever components they have are "the best" and will go to great lengths to put down the choices of others in a senseless and futile effort to somehow prove the superiority of their choices, blind to the fact that there are no absolute "right" choices in a quest that is entirely subjective, and thus personal.
Most high-end audio manufacturers cater to this insecurity in a market that thrives on "mine is bigger, better, more expensive (thus sounds better) than yours"...
Class d seems to be the red haired foster child for those with deep insecurities, or perhaps, vested interests, as it gets kicked around all the time. Perhaps because it offers a level of performance to the masses at a previously unavailable low cost, taking away much of the snob appeal many of the insecure so value...For those without vested interests or insecurities, it has proven to be an exciting and fulfilling option for amplification. Excellent measured performance, high performance to cost ratio, small, light, energy efficient, plug and play without any finickiness, the list goes on and on. Never mind the fact that many have dumped their tubes and high dollar boutique ss for class d...No wonder people feel threatened!
Clearly, the reason there are so many different types of speakers, amps, dacs, etc., successful in the marketplace is obviously because tastes and priorities differ. There are many roads to audio paradise, none more valid than the next; we shouldn’t be so concerned and critical with the route others take but as fellow travelers, wish them well in their journey.
Most high-end audio manufacturers cater to this insecurity in a market that thrives on "mine is bigger, better, more expensive (thus sounds better) than yours"...
Class d seems to be the red haired foster child for those with deep insecurities, or perhaps, vested interests, as it gets kicked around all the time. Perhaps because it offers a level of performance to the masses at a previously unavailable low cost, taking away much of the snob appeal many of the insecure so value...For those without vested interests or insecurities, it has proven to be an exciting and fulfilling option for amplification. Excellent measured performance, high performance to cost ratio, small, light, energy efficient, plug and play without any finickiness, the list goes on and on. Never mind the fact that many have dumped their tubes and high dollar boutique ss for class d...No wonder people feel threatened!
Clearly, the reason there are so many different types of speakers, amps, dacs, etc., successful in the marketplace is obviously because tastes and priorities differ. There are many roads to audio paradise, none more valid than the next; we shouldn’t be so concerned and critical with the route others take but as fellow travelers, wish them well in their journey.