I am not familiar with the particular Rowland interview . It is worth pointing out however, that the switch mode amplifiers in question -- digital being a misnomer -- were 1st generation entry level devices, where most designers optimized the behavior of third party large integration power conversion modules through some modifications, but mostly by inserting them in their own particular 1st generation topologies. Some topologies may have simply consisted of providing I/O connectors, while others employed a variety of peripheral devices, from power supplies to I/O line level transformers. Some products were musically satisfying, while other products were somewhat less.
In later years, some manufacturers, like Rowland, and Chapter Audio applied similar switch mode power conversion modules in much more sophisticated designs, ranging in price from $10K to $30K, where these subcomponents yielded much less of their idiosyncratic character to the whole, but where in fact designers used them in context, to achieve a particular -- and usually advanced -- esthetic sonic goal.
Unfortunately Chapter Audio was not present at RMAF last weekend, but Rowland introduced the 625 stereo amplifier, a device that utilizes power factor correction and regulated switch mode power supplies to feed a class A/B topology.
Yet, we can certainly claim, that there is a continuum between integration and design.... but isn't there always?
And in the end.... artistry remains in the musicality of the whole, regardless of technology, topology, level of integration, etc.... Once again, as Igor Stravinsky so aptly said.... "We Do not judge a tree by its roots, but by its fruits."
G.