The only thing I've found the master set useful for is learning how speaker placement impacts bass. It also taught me I don't have the patience to work so hard on something I don't really believe in. I sort-of got it but in the end I thought it was a good start, rather than a complete method.
Rich spent many hours more than me and got a bit more out of it but I still don't think it has repeatable and predictable results that are inline with what is claimed (imaging everywhere, no compromises in bass). If you tinker with anything long enough, you'll eventually get what you want.. But the purpose of a method is to get there quicker. I didn't think the Master Set did that. But then, if the master set is a free sharing, learning experience, then it has done its job.. got people thinking and experimenting.
I will write a new speaker placement method either on my own or with Rich in 2010. I'll tweak it and get others to try it. Then of course, sell it!
There is no such thing as no compromises. However, the method I use can balance the sound in whatever direction you prefer and you can alter the balance predictably.. (moving speakers in a direction adds bass in certain frequencies, diminishes soundstage depth or width, etc.) So it has compromises but you choose them.
In any case, toe angle is extremely important.. just like on car suspension.
-C