Gene,St
Great opinion piece. I think you hit the nail on the head. Straight from their own webpage "The Bureau of Consumer Protection's mandate is to protect consumers against unfair or deceptive acts or practices in commerce. With the written consent of the Commission, Bureau attorneys enforce federal laws related to consumer affairs and rules promulgated by the FTC."
I'm sure there has been some lobbying from the industry to allow them to present the specifications in this way. Either that or the FTC just doesn't think it is a big enough issue to want to step in and do something about it. Either way, they are failing the consumers. However, I will say that it is the consumer's responsibility to educate themselves on the specifications and performance of the amp or receiver as well. You wouldn't go and buy a Ford Grenada expecting it to perform like a Ferrari would you? Entities like the FTC should work to reign in false or misleading claims and press companies to advertise specifications that are more true to real world performance, but buyer beware! Don't be an idiot, learn about what you are purchasing, and know that if it sounds too good to be true, it is. And people like you with the information, knowledge, and ability to present it in a clear and understandable manner make that easier to do.
Keep up the good work. Really liked your conversation recently about the Denon AVR-X8500H. Have one coming this week! Can't wait.