Why do so many people hold it against a company that they're a marketing machine? It undoubtedly drives the cost up, since there are costs associated with extensive marketing, and it also undoubtedly drives the price that can be gotten for the product up because people now desire the product. But is seems like many people hold it against a company and their products because they're successful at marketing. If Bose products cost 1/2 as much, would they be any better or worse a product? It would cause those of us who understand how much better you can get for the same money a lot less angst, but it wouldn't change the performance of the product. People who buy the product apparently are well serviced, happy with their purchase, and have bought from a company that is going to be around for a long time - seems like, overall, it's not something to hold against the company.
Horrific Confession and Question
While shopping for classical music in one of the mega retailers recently, I found myself quite carried away by whatever they were playing, finding the selection as well as the sound very pleasing. At the risk of never being allowed to post on this forum again, I am ashamed to admit that I discovered I was listening to BOSE mini speakers which were sticking out haphazardly from the ceiling. This leads me to wonder if background listening presents totally different challenges than focused, attentive listening. Against my audiophile background and judgement, I am wondering if I should install boomier "mid-fi" gear for multi room and entertaining guests when I renovate the house. Any thoughts?