I don't think the channel has gone "down hill" per say, but has definitely shifted directions.
Thomas and Jen (I think that's her name) are making more "sales pitch" type videos highlighting the features and benefits of items. And if I'm honest, some of the videos are super informative. I watched Thomas' video on the "in out, overflow" the one from Two Little Fishies, and I would have never known the return has the capability to create a wave action without any extra plumbing. The videos also help with actually seeing the items, and parts/accessories that come with it. I'm in sales, so it's pretty easy to tune out the sales pitch parts and get the info I need.
Ryan and Randy seem to more focused on the long format videos and youtube live programming. I do like the live format, but it gets repetitive. If there is an actually question raised, and not a clear answer, Ryan almost always pivots to the "I dunno, we'll see". It seems like every youtube channel now is doing "live" podcasts type format, and the same questions get asked to the same people over and over. All the major voices have what they're going to say pretty much memorized for when they get asked questions.
I think the 52 weeks of reefing series was so popular because it clearly defined what they were doing, why they were doing it, and HOW they were doing it. I would like to see so more videos like these.
I would like to see someone actually ask either BRS or Manufacturers the actual hard questions.
1) Why are the major light companies all priced around the same? MAP pricing doesn't help the consumer at all
2) If neptune and reefbrite are premium brands, why is there hot glue (both companies) and wire nuts (reefbrite) used inside their products?
3) Get someone from Kessil to answer why when I buy a $750 dollar light do I need to buy an additional $100 controller or wifi dongle?
4) Did ecotech change the type of plastic used on the vortechs? People were cleaning pumps with vinegar for years, but now there seems to be a even more instances of magnets swelling and contaminating tanks