I think the general attitude is that they are getting better. Not perfect, but better. My first ARF was a Royal trainer about 19 years ago and todays worst is better than that was. Figure what $110 was back in 1989 or so and compare that to todays market. When the wings were joined, one leading edge was 1/4 inch in front of the other.

I also think that todays flyer tends to grossly overpower everything. I am not attacking nor accusing people whose planes fall apart in the air. There are some poor quality ships out there, but some of my biggest frustrations have come from some of the high dollar companies. Nuff said. Somebody else can have the soap box now.