I understand the level of marketshare that Innova has. What I don't agree with, is the acceptance that because they make more, they're allowed to have a lower level of quality.
To use your analogy. Just because people may prefer micro-breweries doesn't mean Budweiser produces a lower quality. People are not getting sick off their beer or finding broken glass in their bottles. Taste preference is not analogous to quality. I would actually guarantee that due to their size, Budweiser holds themselves to even stricter level of quality. Whereas Innova seems to have an image of trying to pump out more molds faster.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not knocking their business model. Apple does it much the same way. By the time all the bugs and issues with an iPhone or an iPad are solved, the next model is on its way and millions line up around the street to spend another $500. Innova IS Disc Golf. It is the first brand that a majority of new players will have in their hands (I know it was mine).
And I also acknowledge that the majority of casual players don't care, or don't notice the quality control shifts that some of us here do. But I'm also not appealling to the masses. I'm posting on a forum where people are the type to care about this, or (presumably) want to learn. People religiously hunt down older Rocs and Aviars, etc. because back then Innova seemed to care more about being a Disc Golf provider than a Disc Golf business.
I guess my point is, I don't know why people would give Innova a pass on quality and consistency just because they put out more volume. Reputation is everything, regardless of what you do. If the trend continues, the minority that do notice it will begin to influence the majority that don't know any better.
THIS