Some companies still build incredibly durable electronics, others choose to give up a bit of durability for features and performance. Everything costs money. I don't think any brand excels so much in one are over another compared to its competitors that it becomes the definitive brand for people looking for characterstic X.

Sooner or later everyone builds a lemon....the real test is in how they deal with their customers after. Looks like H/K is treating you right, and standing behind their product. Kudos to them.
You now have a lifetime warranty. Not bad.