Frankly I think Damian had the better point.
If there is anything to be put off by it is the lack of respect of certain members for the opinions of others and just general disregard for common social protocols. You do not go into someone's house and start telling them how much better it would look if they changed their floors etc. It is really no different here. There is nothing wrong Rob with giving honest opinions on any product but you can do that without being insulting and when you are, it may be expected that you get a hostile reaction. Moreover, it may be expected that you get a hostile reaction when you post what may be innocent in a potentially hostile or disrespectful manner, like "are [blank's feet to big]. If your insult was unintended, don't get mad, simply explain yourself. That is what you would do if you were having an in person conversation and it is the deviation from that course of conduct at times here (or in any forum) that is really the issue. Most everyone here knows how to behave civilly and those that don't either chose to or are relatively hopeless in that regard. Annoying, yes at times. Does it inhibit more rationale exchanges; only if you let it. I personally refuse to let my conduct or enjoyment be dictated by the misconduct of others.
Is this a one manufacturer phenomenon; please.
Should we let the occasional misunderstanding or even outright dust up stifle our free expression, exchange of different perspectives and sense of humor; lord I sincerely hope not. IMHO, this is simply not a major problem and when the problem occurs there are many simple ways to deal with it; humor is in fact one of them, whatever your tribe.