Horn based loudspeakers why the controversy?

Compression drivers of all types, from what I remember, had a phase plug. The Tangerine came later, (mid 70's) first used in the Altec Model 19. The phase plug was needed to make the compression driver work properly. I don't know the mechanical or electrical reasons why. I think Altec came out with the Tangerine because one of the chief complaints about these drivers was a lack of HF extension. I remember my home pair of A-7's having more of a "whoooshhh" sound  on cymbals rather than the nice extended "crash" sound a cymbal has when struck with a stick or mallet. This was much improved with the Model 19. IMHO

My Airpulse Model one speakers have a horn loaded ribbon tweeter which I find to be very extended and detailed. Not a true horn but an interesting implementation nonetheless which sounds verg good to these ears

{Edgar Villchur started the controversy}  Do agree that sellers of early AS stereo designs had to talk owners into buying 2 new speakers and getting rid of those old RCA Altec JBL Lowther WE horns. Wonder whats more usable and valuable today the old horns or those early AS designs?

My Tannoy dual concentric horn loaded tweeters just died after a particularly loud POP on a vinyl disc.
Not sure if I am going to keep pursing horns.

Klipsch horn speakers have been loved by many peple since 1946 and thought of as one of the best speakers for the price.  They have lasted the test of time. If people did not love them they would have stopped production year s ago.  Personal taste in how you feel your music, how you hear your music. People have personal taste and hear music differently
What one person might hear as bright sound, it may be just right for someone else that hear that frequency with less sensitivity.  Horn based enclosures are very efficient and dynamic. Usually best suited for larger rooms. They have a unique sound you either like or don't. Listen and compare to see what you like. For a large room 20ft square or larger Klipsch horns are difficult to beat for the price. There are probably horn based compedtors that sound great too.