anyone else hate locking RCAs?

Yes, I'm in agreement with the XLR crowd. Even if you don't realize any sonic benefits with balanced connections (with my equipment I definitely do), the connectors alone make them wortwhile IMHO. Unfortunately, they are not an option for all components.

It's interesting that the folks really like the connectors on the DHLabs Air Matrix. Those are the ones that give me the most problems, especially in the tight space of multi-channel analog input, as many have already metioned. They are nice cables, but the connectors are a huge issue for me.

I`m not too crazy about the locking rca`s either and this coming from a guy who uses Kimber Select. They are a pita if the preamp is crowded and one wants to change a cable or piece of equipment. I much preferred the connectors on the Cardas cables but then sometimes they would become loose. I`ve never had a problem with a loose connection using the WBT`s/NextGen. I agree with Ncarv. The trick is never get them too tight just enough to make a good connection and before inserting make sure you know which way to lock and unlock the cable. I much prefer the balanced connection.

Jallen makes a good point, especially for those of us who like vintage equipment. Some of the RCA (both male and female) do vary in size and locking contacts help very much.

If you look closely at the leading edge of an Eichmann Bullet collar,
there is a very small dot which must be at the 12 o'clock position to make electrical contact to the WBT NextGen RCA jacks (eg. NuForce amps)

My digital cable has a pair of locking WBT Platinum RCA's that work excellent, no problems, so as all else in life, your mileage may vary.