I don't even own Omegas or Hoyts or Outlaws or any of Louis' creations, but I too have seen the same issues Hibuck points out. It's insane.
I'm sure, at one time, that B&W started very small and over time grew. Do you think you can call B&W and expect them to share all their knowledge, let alone, sell raw drivers to the DIY crowd? Not going to happen.
But the DIY crowd feels betrayed because Louis used to be so generous. I believe Louis used DIY as a way to explore, research, develop and innovate over the years. This provides a path, for one who isn't super wealthy, to do this kind of work. Keep in mind that Omega started before crowd funding really existed. What Louis did was smart and resourceful. He obviously feels he's at a point where he is now a master of his work, and needs to protect it so that he can continue to grow and expand his business.
Regarding the new 1.5 way designs : Are they as much of a "purist" design as his main line of single driver speakers? Probably not. Here's the thing, Louis' speakers are a niche product. I see the 1.5 way designs as a niche product that could bridge the performance characteristics gap between single driver, crossover-less speakers, and more common multi-driver, cross-overed speakers. There are some possible advantages these 1.5 way designs have over large single driver speakers. The smaller moving mass of the dual drivers to produce bass likely provides a cleaner midrange (vs a large single driver), while getting similar extension in a relatively compact package. Versus more common speakers, these 1.5's have a much more minimal crossover, which I don't think I need to explain the advantages of. Are these speakers for everyone? No, but neither is his main line of speakers. I say this because I'm willing to bet that the majority of people in this hobby are generally into big, multi-driver speakers with crossovers and big amps (at least 100 wpc). With that said, I think Louis may be the only guy really making great strides to produce innovative, AFFORDABLE, finished, single driver (and 1.5 way designs) that I know of. He's in a bit of a unique position which he has worked hard to attain and now maintain.