Educational and 100% free are not the same. It's not remotely hard to imagine them having other trade-offs to make and being most concerned with getting devices in hands.
After spending a few days poking around trying to get the I2S block going, abomination is the right word for the processor. If only because of the severe lack of documentation and support.
Your point that the pi board provides educational value despite the frustratingly obtuse abomination at the core is valid though.
Your point that the pi board provides educational value despite the frustratingly obtuse abomination at the core is valid though.