N4QNT wrote:I think this expensive build quality will be retired.. just my guess
It is my understanding that it has
ALREADY been retired (which I hate to see happen). Obviously, radios are not primarily focused on aesthetics; the primary focus is on performance - as it should be. But
IMHO the
i5 / i7 had reached the pinnacle of appearance. Each one looked like it was made by master craftsmen, with top quality material, brushed aluminum, solid & perfectly positioned handles, etc. I am sure no one wanted to see the appearance downgraded to the point where they now look more like a "kit" radio. I may receive some unfavorable replies, but I can't help but believe that others feel as I do. In fact, even though I had planned on eventually buying a second ANAN 7000 DLE MKII "Black" Version, I immediately placed my order as soon as I saw the cosmetic changes to the current i5 / i7 ANAN. I am hoping I will receive my second Black ANAN before any external changes are made to this model.
I am sure logistic issues, material shortages, cost factors, moving part of production to India, etc. - all played a role in the cosmetic changes; nonetheless, for me, it is disheartening. But I am exceedingly grateful for the ANAN in any package, whatever the appearance may be, because no other radio is even in its league.
If it was housed in a tin can, I would still have an ANAN as my only radio! I just hate to see such a dramatic change in appearance.