Most pre/pros and receivers from all of the various manufacturers share some common components such as DAC's, video processing chips and room correction software. However, with receivers you will notice that for the most part the amplifier architecture is different between brands. With prep/pros it's a little more vague, but most companies develop their own product prototypes and then outsource the manufacturing. Some may be produced by the same foreign manufacturing firm, but the end results are unique.

I'm sure when the 978 arrives and it can be compared to the Emotiva products as well as others, there will be noticeable differences.

I'm not going to touch the Chinese topic but being in the furniture and cabinet making field, it pains me to learn of the closing of numerous North and South Carolina furniture and cabinetmaking companies as they move production over seas. I don't have the answers as to why, but it's painful to read the stories.