Gonk,

Good points as usual. I'm one of those who won't buy something made in China unless I absolutely have to. I understand Outlaw is limited by their outsourcing of manufacturing, and it's not their 'fault' that the 997 will be made in China, as that's where SN is building the platforms. I too would pay more for a US (or even North/South American) built product versus one made in China, but as you point out, there really isn't anything available in this price range. I buy Outlaw amps over Emotiva (even though they are more money) as I'd rather support a US company. I also happen to feel Outlaw's amps are better built and Outlaw's customer support is better (IMO). In the past, I've unknowingly purchased some gear that was made in China, but I've made a decision that anything I purchase in the future won't be made there. The first thing I look for now on anything I buy is where it's made (and it's damn hard to find anything that's not made in China). I guess down the road I will have to decide whether the 997 is a product that's worth compromising my principles for or not. Unfortunately, at this point I'd have to say I won't be getting one.