Mike.......I imagine since the Chinese are past masters at counterfeiting, and those products are often inferior with high failure rates, the reputation that clings to the Made In China label is often viewed with suspicion, contempt, or disgust. There is no denying that manufacturing quality in China has improved dramatically in certain areas but certainly not all and not for a long enough period of time to erase from consumer's minds the stains of past or continuing deeds. Counterfeiting remains rampant, not only in finished products but also in component parts that are supplied to manufacturers all over the world. For some, trying to rise above this ingrained mindset is difficult, particularly older generations. As future progress is made I am certain the stigma associated with the Made In China label will disappear as it did for Japan. I am old enough to remember when Made in Japan was a symbol of cheap, poorly made junk merchandise. Now, Made In Japan is seen as a badge of distinction. Unfortunately, I think China has some distance to travel and time to pass before Made In China becomes a non-issue. It is happening slowly. For many it carries no negativity but for others Made In China still represents the lowest possible common denominator for value, seen as a last choice when no other options are available.
Labor conditions in China typify another set of issues some people have with Chinese made products. Child labor, forced labor, poor working conditions, forced factory living arrangements, questionably low pay, and other ugly conditions in the Chinese labor force leaves many with less than favorable views about products manufactured in China. Couple the notions of poor quality, the possibility of counterfeit components or parts, and questionable labor issues, it becomes more transparent why there are some who remain committed to avoiding goods labeled Made In China.
The attitudes of buyers do not go unnoticed by other manufacturers around the globe who use factories in China to manufacture parts or assemblies that are then shipped to the UK, Canada, the USA, Japan, and many other locations around the world for final assembly. These manufacturers will then silkscreen the rear aprons of gear with their logos and Made In USA, or Assembled In UK , Assembled In Canada, Assembled In Italy, etc. as a way of deferring attention from the fact that much, if not nearly all of a component's parts were actually Made In China. These same manufacturers want their reputations to go unspoiled and be supported as being known for building products in their local regions and factories. These same manufacturers are painfully aware of the continuing stigma many buyers place on products coming out of China. They wish to distance themselves whenever possible from the actual origin of parts and assemblies in their products.
After having seen and auditioned a number of audio products manufactured in China, I will admit that it has helped me adjust my preconceived attitude about low quality. A perfect example for me was removing the cover from the bottom of the PrimaLuna ProLogue Premium integrated amplifier I reviewed several years ago. I was astonished at the excellent craftsmanship and layout, attention to detail, and high quality parts used to assemble this audio component that wears the Made In China label. Sometimes one has to see it with their own eyes to become a believer.
Beyond a simple awakening there is much to be done before the Made In China label approaches being considered a badge of honor. Progress is taking place, but the job is far from complete. Some people may never be convinced that great things are taking place in China, while others are able to shed past perceptions and prejudices to embrace the future. There will always be naysayers. It is the human condition.
