Hey Huntingspice,
I used to use SO shelters, a lot. I also used Black Diamond, MLD, MSR, Nemo, and a while bunch more. I started making tents because after using all of them, I wanted something different than anyone else was making because I didnt love any of them for the hubting I was doing, and I did. The Mid design wasnt invented by SO. the OG mid design is the BD MegaMid. Our Absaroka is a different size, fabric, strength and pitches differently due to the shape, material, paneling, How it packs, etc. The differences in tents are subtle, but important, and if you use them a lot you'll understand that. Particularly why polyester fabrics vs. nylon creates an entirely different shelter.
We started out as filmmakers. Then, as is the same now, I used what I thought was the best gear out there, and thats why we make the gear we do.
I think the real question here is what's your point with this whole thread? Pretty lofty accusations you throwing out while hiding behind a fake name. If you have a point, other than you're bitter about something, I'll give you my cell phone, and I'd be happy to talk to you.
-Brad