Reading this thread and the tensions that it brings, this is my open call to everyone to engage with others. I hope this doesn't come across as rallying for any one side in this case, it isn't intended as such.
The open protocol computer solution is not for everyone, it may be that some people lack the confidence? perhaps they don't understand, yet? but why not help them as best you can.
But, I can see how knowledgeable people could make a really big difference on this forum," just not in this thread". (which perhaps makes me posting this here all the more inappropriate!) but at the risk of getting hassle here goes:
I for one would really appreciate a thread which examines and tutors 'Computer Dummies' like me to explore the world of RPi solutions with more confidence, by which i mean real, A,B,C....descriptions that assume very limited knowledge . Too many assume that we know what you know and that we are familiar with the language.
What better way to spread the base of people using this stuff and with popularity comes more development to meet demand?
During my ownership of my RPi and allo SPDIF hat I have tried a few solutions, and yet the help out there to help me to solve my problems has always been hard to find, even my close friend a competent computer guy in the office who first encouraged me to take the step didn't want to get drawn in to giving me a little advice, when I needed it. So I tend to follow web articles 'parrot fashion', some are good, some assume too much knowledge for me, they leave gaps where I guess it is obvious to the author. Perhaps i will start a thread, but I fear derision from the ranks.
Why not help, 'spread the love' and more importantly, the enthusiasm, don't just broadcast.
All this from someone who used to Code for Intel 8085s, 6502s, Z80 and 8086 processor based micros back in the 70's and 80's. I now find it hard, really hard!