Ian, you have to remember, the same thing was said about the Spectrums before they determined a marine receiver was needed. I watched a brand new 1980 Bud hit the bank while being controlled by an EARLY VERSION of the Spectrum. After putting what was left of the boat back on it's stand, a series of tests was performed. The initial test showed the radio worked fine. When they did a range check, it was fine as well. It wasn't until they did a range test over the water than the radio glitched.
Now, as far as Hitec goes, I personally haven't seen a problem with them. As far as being impartial, who knows. I know I use a Futaba 4PLS and have never had a problem with it.