The European Brands seem to have a leg up on the iconic American brands when it comes to new technology in 2 channel hi- fi. They are the "innovators"....the Chinese companies on the other hand are the "best bang for the buck" suppliers.......the American companies are the "brands we grew up with" suppliers not necessarily the best innovators or the best "value".........Having said that , it’s good to support American companies but becoming harder and harder as fresh new products are introduced by the Europeans and Chinese that just sound fantastic . I do notice that the show crowds seem to be getting older and older.....not a good sign for 2 channel.