Wilson was a pioneer in charging prices that obliterated previous limits and delivering speakers wrapped in (then) exotic automotive finishes. That combo struck some people as a bad thing - and likely accounts for some of the "haters".
Wilson Audio Haters
I've always wondered why there are so many people out there, that more than any other speaker manufacturer, really hate the Wilson line. I own Maxx 2's and also a pair of Watt Puppys. They are IMHO quite wonderful.
Why does Wilson get so much thrashing?