This was also when (1983-1997) HEA had it’s biggest and most actively productive membership. I was so disappointed when the quest for $$$$ became the driving force instead of the sound that so many of these companies provided. The basic models sounded much better than the over built ones and the designers knew it, but the pressure was on to get the gravy train in full gear.
Fortunately the mass produced companies picked up where these basic audiophile products left off.
Michael Green
www.michaelgreenaudio.net
Oh, I should probably add this for a point of reference. During these years I had my own HEA stores. I spent a ton of money trying to get the most out of the pricy products, but started to feel guilty selling them when I knew the basic models were able to out perform them. Same thing happened as I was doing trade shows. Because I was providing a popular acoustical product the high enders wanted me to do their products in my own rooms, but again it was a conflict for me.