I totally understand, and respect what you are saying Craig. And to a point I agree. I am not trying to defend Jason Rings Product, okay well maybe I am a little bit. I like the guy I met him a few months ago in California on a Dvd shoot through Jardonnet, and he told me about the Dragon before it's release. I remember he was a creative guy, and full of energy. The kind of guy everyone likes. Really nice guy...
From my evaluation what sets the product aside from the rest, is the loop. The loop gives the performer the ability to set up at anytime without looking. Instantly; and without drawing attention. Show your hands clean and then rest your hands at your side; bingo your set! That means you can impliment this gimmick if you will at anypart of your routine. That to me is huge, and cant be ignored.
Anyone can speak of it what they want, but without owning one, seeing one, or using it as I have. How can you get a true feel? And how can you you compare? I did give Jason Krap for the video prior to carrying it myself. I thought it was a less expensive Gecko remix after watching it. But, I ordered one anyway just to see, and it's quite different then what I expected. I suggested to Jason that he should come up with a better video to showcase it in a different light.
And I won't name names, but he told me that a gentleman who just released a 9 DVD set loved the concept, and shared an idea. And he explained that they are going to re-release the official Dragon video with the un-named gentlemans idea. And In my opinion The Dragon is a really great quality product/effect with the wrong video to showcase its potential.
Jason said he was already planning a better video. I guess I am not the only one to point that out.

If you look at the video thats up now and compare, you can plainly see even through the poor performance that you don't need your fingers crunched together, it can be set-up on the fly, and the explosion should cover any chance at noise being a factor. I think its a great product with the wrong demo video.
Honestly, I wouldn't normally defend the guy, but I like it first and foremost and I carry it now. I think anytime someone can elevate a concept only helps progress the art. And props for taking a chance. If it can be performed to get a unique reaction, job well done. We are Magicians not Surgeons. And even Surgeons sometimes miss the mark.
My thoughts...
P.S. I don't remember Jay Scott Berrys Dematerialization? I don't mean to date you but what year about was it released? Sounds interesting!