Why do McIntosh come with cheap plastic remotes?

I have three Audio Research devices. A REF 3 Pre-amp, A DAC 8 and a Phono 6. They all have the same type of remote. Although they are ridiculously heavy, remotes made from a solid block of aluminium like some, I believe that AR concentrated (correctly) on the actual equipment, like the amp, pre-amp, etc. The remote doesn't matter much to me as long as it doesn't fall apart and that it works correctly. Which they do work correctly. If you want a hefty, solid remote like Boulder equipment, they remember, you will pay for it. I don't believe it necessary to add to the price for this extra.

Does it work? Does if fail or break easily?

enjoy

The remote quality issue becomes really important to me when certain functions can only be accessed from the remote. If the remote dies the gear can become useless.

For older gear it can be impossible to obtain a replacement should that become necessary.

Sometimes I order a spare as a backup (while I can) and also program a universal for normal use.

I've some heavy remotes, some small and light remotes, and had a ridiculously large remote once. None have ever failed. So as far as I am concerned if the remote works well, cheap is fine. The guts are likely all pretty much the same.

You can add Jeff Rowland to the list. My JR preamp comes with a small plastic remote that says 'Made in Korea' at the back. The preamp looks and sounds gorgeous but the remote is so out of place, a bit like having a plastic spoon in the midst of silver cutlery. I asked to upgrade to something more substantial but they don't have it!
I used to own an ARC Ref 3 preamp and indeed, the JR remote is no better than the ARC's.

I think finally that the remote should be considered as an extension or the unit, being of equal quality.

I'm not saying the remote should be metal, but at least of higher grade plastic design.

I own the Oppo 105. Bought an extra remote for only $ 12.00

Puts any McIntosh or ARC remote to shame. Same with Anthem remotes, great quality for the price.

Best one ever is my current Pathos Logos remote. Just a solid and gracious peice of wood with 4 unmarked buttons. Classy and in-line with the unit's looks and function.