I think that this idea has very valid facts behind, One example is recording technics in some parts of the world as the essay implies, based on my experience with some recordings at hand, I find for example a very closed-mike approach with many Japanese recordings (Three Blind Mice labeled tracks is an example) versus some Russian orchestral recordings which are 25% further (mike placing?) than usual British pressings.
As for type of construction, I remember very well having my good friend Jaczec coming to Mexico and paying a visit to my place, he shared with me that my late Avangardes were producing one of the best bass responses he have heard- even best to his own Acapellas at his NYC place. He based his conclusions on the fact that most of Mexico's urban homes are brick and mortar constructions compared to many new US homes which are not.
One final thought could be the conductor/artist match - some think that a Russian composer directed now with a Russian conductor for example, portraits the intrinsic message of a given musical piece better than an "allien" one.
Very provocative essay Sean, thanks for sharing it.
