Your comparison of TE to BMW is apt. As is OP’s comparison to Apple.
For those of us who have raced cars on a track, we see the BMW E36 M3 (90s) as the last proper race worthy vehicle. People who drive BMWs now just want a “nice car to drive” and spirited drivers don’t want anything to do with them.
Likewise, people who use TE instruments want to feel like they are making music, even though they are not using the hardware or software conducive to do so.
I agree with you that BMW and TE aren’t the gear that hardcore professionals would reach for, but enthusiasts who enjoy those respective activities can get a lot of enjoyment out of.
Both make stuff for people who enjoy nice things, no pretention required.
For those of us who have raced cars on a track, we see the BMW E36 M3 (90s) as the last proper race worthy vehicle. People who drive BMWs now just want a “nice car to drive” and spirited drivers don’t want anything to do with them.
Likewise, people who use TE instruments want to feel like they are making music, even though they are not using the hardware or software conducive to do so.