[ak_111]

Genuine question why would you describe it as "Chinese garbage" if it worked perfectly? Are you referring to its aesthetics or the price? In both cases I don't think this adjective is merited...

[euroderf]

"Chinese garbage" might mask a competitive threat.

When I was a kid, "Made in Japan" was code for cheap junk. Until Japanese products whomped entire sectors of US employment.

[ak_111]

Interesting, I was raised in the 1980s and even then Japan had a good reputation electronic wise.

[euroderf]

Yes. FWIW my first stereo system was a Pioneer.