Like I say, I can see both sides of the coin. But how many would join a restricted forum on the basis of it might be what they're looking for? I only signed up after browsing as a guest for a few weeks.
My personal opinion is the main site needs to get up & running again. But at the same time we can't expect too much from SD as 1) I know he's very busy & can't spend 24/7 sorting out the sites. And 2) we can't expect him to keep stumping up his own cash (and again his time) for minor changes here & there, especially things that are as a result of circumstances out of his control.
For any new members who might read this, sign up. We're generally a friendly bunch. Yes opinions differ here & there, sometimes things can get a bit heated. But that's the beauty of being a human being. You're blessed with a brain that is more than capable of thinking for itself & making your own opinions. If you let it