Absolutely, to answer both questions. There are Canadian pieces that are respected throughout the world of High Fidelity. In fact some of the best pieces are from Canadian designers and manufacturers.
There tends to be "markets" that designers target around the world. Europeans like separates (amp preamp) and view integrateds as for the impovrished. Americans like monster amps, lots of features and Lights...lots of lights and LEDS. The Japanese manufacturers learned this early on and designed almost everything for them. There are many who like audio - pure sound reproduction. These manufacturers build products to accomplish this, and them attempt to sell them. If you read a magazine, the ink stained wretch reviewing the product brings their personal bias to the review.
Anyway enough soapbox! I can supply a list, if requested.
Regards,
BBIBH
