Some more clarification from my records...
- Amir contracted me to build the GR X-LS Encore(s). After I ordered and built the first very basic one, we discussed using the more premium parts for the second one. As the build thread mentions, I had minimal contact with Danny except for requesting a missing capacitor for the crossover. Later he also wrote with clarification on the damping material and, after checking with Amir, he agreed to add.
- The basic unit got shipped, measured and Amir's review even recommended it (even without rounded edges, upgraded caps, tube connectors and No-Rez damping). I supplied Danny with a summary of suggested improvements to the speaker and he thanked me.
- Since building the more premium speaker was hundreds of dollars more, I approached Danny to supply a sample. He offered to supply a premium pair that he built. Danny agreed to do this in late July 2020 but by early August had reneged citing Amir's room inadequacies and mono listening. Although Amir conceded to listen to the stereo pair, Danny had made up his mind. Despite his reservations, he still agreed to help supply the upgrade parts for my premium build. I did them all except for tube connectors as the box already had a terminal cup installed. A few more rounds ensued as the crossover parts changed midstream, but the premium speaker was eventually completed and shipped to Amir.
At this stage, Danny had already admitted that the premium speaker would likely measure the same as the basic one. So, there was not expectation from either Amir or Danny of a different result and so the second review was shelved. Amir paid me in full and that was the extent of my involvement.
So despite some conjecture over lack of agreement from the start, the dialog was very cordial initially. Unfortunately, differences emerged along the way. Nobody is entirely impartial ofc, but I can prove all I have stated to date. All of the major points can be confirmed from 2020 postings here and on AudioCircle.