Remember that criticism is the backbone of the scientific method. Something something sample size...
I am not here to deal with sample size issue, how long the paint lasts, what functionality a device has, etc. I have but one role: a member has an piece of audio device and is curious how it performs. I get the unit and subject it to the same objective and subjective tests. There are results and conclusions that I draw based on my experience and expectations. That is the end of it.
As an industry, the audio companies have NOT embraced what we do. Even companies like Harman have been totally non-responsive despite my decade long personal and professional relationships with them. As I mentioned, I know Andrew as well but my prior attempts to get him to engage have not worked even though he is actually a member here (joined long time ago).
The accusation of a device being broken is extremely common in my review comments when I give a strong thumbs down. They are however just conjecture and often by people who don't even know how to diagnose such problems, let alone be right. If a device is broken to my knowledge, then I will provide that feedback to you all and to the company if they sent me product. In no way do I post a review and hide such information. Indeed there have been good number of instances where I had to fix equipment to test them, or did not publish a review because the product did not work.
In this case, the sample unit is in impeccable condition with no sign of damage. Given the volume sensitivity and resonances in a coaxial driver, it sounds and smells like a deign problem to me. Could it be a broken sample? It could and I noted that in the review. But in my judgement, it is not.
Still, I tried to get access to the second unit but the timing and logistics did not allow it. I asked Joe to send me his sample, and he is refusing. So far, Andrew has not engaged either even though we are told he should know about the review by now. He has my email address if he wants to reach me in private.
There is a suggestion that I sit on this review. What would I be waiting for? I did half a day's worth of work and you want me to flush that in the toilet on a hunch for a follow up from the company that may never come? How about all the people who will continue to buy this product and soon go out of their return period should this be a design fault? You rather have sympathy for the manufacturer than consumers?
Ultimately my mission and role is simple: I am here to test what you send me. If a company wants to have the privilege you all speak of, then they should send me the gear, not a member. Indeed in those cases when I find issues, I will bring it to their attention and get their feedback. To the extend the industry is not engaging with us, that is the end of the road. I am sure Elac seeded the youtubers and other reviewers with this speaker but we were not contacted. So that is that. And here we are.
It is not a perfect situation but there is so much I and membership can do on our dime. Put your pressure on the company for not responding. Or step up and buy a pair to send me. Don't make it my problem to deal with your doubts. I am not trying to solve for world peace here for heaven's sake.....