I think that may have been the first review I've seen by him so I don't know if he talks like that all the time. I personally didn't think he trashed the Mac, it has some legit oversights if you are a HT person.
No OSD, are you serious, that is basic of basics. I didn't think lack of video upscaling was an issue because displays upsample anyway. Not sure on projectors. I thought it was a good thing he warned any potential buyer of the sound. For HT I personally would prefer a more neutral sound anyway but he did indicate some sound effects were some muted by comparison. It's all perspective, I've heard some systems where breaking glass would run you out of the room. I thought the comment on the weight was unnecessary. On the other hand he was right on cosmetics and what folks expect for a Mac.
I realize HT is something Mac wants to offer and has before but it isn't their forte. Some years back a store had a Mac HT set up, a HT pre with their amp, and another set up with Anthem separates, I think both were using Paradigm. The Anthem sounded so much better for less money.
Trying to be objective when comparing that Mac to even a more entry HT receiver it falls very short. Look at the number of HDMI in/out, all but the most entry provide at least 2 HDMI outs.
There could be some reason Mac made some of their decisions on this piece but objectively I thought the review was valid. Mac should have brought in some HT experts to help consult on this piece. Typically, high end brands who do HT, ie. Arcam or Rotel, back in the day, left off bells & whistles but they had the sound quality and enough proper HT adjustments they did well, you know what I mean, you knew what you were paying for.
