The internet brands are appealing to a smaller group of people, whereas the mainstream companies have to appeal to the masses. This means companies like DD & Incriminator don't need to supply ridiculous amounts of product...at least nothing comparable to what companies like Alpine & Kicker are producing anyway.
Then there's this;
Your typical 17 - 22 year old guy doesn't need, or know a thing about, "competition worthy" equipment. Their purchase decisions are made by cosmetic appearance, word of mouth and brand recognition. On top of that, most people don't need a system capable of touching high 40s on the TL. Most of these kids don't have the cash for big power amplifiers either. That's why most of them end up with a pair of W1, P1, CVR, KFC or maybe Type R subwoofers. They're shiny, inexpensive, cheap to power and they make noise. That's good enough for most, but not us.
We're the minority, and the "underground" or "internet" brands are catering to us. It's a niche market. Many of the products are overbuilt, by design, to serve the guys looking for the ever elusive 150+. Simple as that.
