Bose and B&O have a similar nitch market. Small, good looking, easy to use = very high WAF factor. Both at one time were approaching high fi (not necessarily high end), but both decided on this market. There's nothing wrong with that, but if you are looking for best sound for your $$, that's not what either of these companies are about. While I won't mention names I have spoken with one of the higher ups at Bose who is very upfront that this is the market they want. They are not looking to sound the best, or be the best value (based on sound quality). They are looking to capture the market that has the disposable $$ to spend on easy to use, easy to set up, and good looking equipment. Sounds very profitable to me.
question about BOSE reputation
I have never listened to a BOSE system but I have heard that many audiophiles "hate" this brand. Is this brand really that bad for the money? The other day I saw in the Bose web page a home theater system, the Lifestyle 50, which retails for $3700. I was wondering if there are a lot of options better than Bose for much less money. For example, do you guys think that I can go better with a Denon receiver and some not too expensive speakers from...B&W or Infinity for example? If so, which would be the least expensive Denon A/V receiver and B&W or Infinity speakers to beat away that $3700 Bose system? How much would that system be? Your comments and suggestions will be highly appreciated. Thanks. Jair